Temporary Cook (Hospitality Department)

The University of Notre Dame, located in Notre Dame, IN, is a prestigious and mission-driven institution renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, research innovation, and community engagement. More than just a university, Notre Dame fosters a vibrant and supportive environment where employees are valued and nurtured holistically—mind, body, and spirit. Rooted in a rich Catholic tradition, the University prioritizes creating a workplace culture that emphasizes well-being, belonging, and professional growth. Notre Dame is proud to be recognized as the number one large employer in the nation by Forbes, highlighting its dedication to offering a welcoming and supportive workplace for all staff members. This recognition reflects the University's ongoing efforts to cultivate an employment experience where every individual feels appreciated and empowered to make a meaningful impact both on campus and beyond.

Within this dynamic environment, the University of Notre Dame's Operations, Events, and Safety (UOES) Division plays an essential role in overseeing event management, hospitality services, and customer support functions that enhance student life, academic initiatives, research activities, and campus celebrations. The Hospitality Department within UOES is currently seeking Temporary Cooks to join their team. This role offers a unique opportunity for individuals at various stages of their culinary careers to develop and refine their cooking skills while contributing to a vibrant campus community.

Temporary Cook positions are available at three different levels to accommodate a range of experience and expertise. Cook 1 is designed for entry-level culinary professionals eager to build foundational skills in a professional kitchen setting. This involves tasks such as basic food preparation, chopping vegetables, portioning ingredients, and preparing simple menu items including salads, sandwiches, and breakfast dishes. This position provides an excellent introduction to culinary operations and foodservice standards.

Cook 2 roles require greater proficiency and responsibility, including managing specific cooking stations such as grills, sautés, or fryers. Candidates in this role will prepare a wider variety of menu items with accuracy and consistency, maintain food quality, coordinate with kitchen staff for smooth service, and manage inventory to minimize waste. This position is ideal for individuals looking to deepen their culinary skills in a fast-paced and dynamic kitchen environment.

Cook 3 is an intermediate-level role for cooks who are ready to handle more complex dishes and take on leadership responsibilities. This includes executing advanced cooking techniques such as butchery and sauce-making, leading junior kitchen staff, assisting with recipe development and production schedules, and ensuring compliance with hygiene and food safety standards. Cook 3 positions are suited for individuals seeking to grow as culinary professionals and mentors within a collaborative team.

Each Temporary Cook position at Notre Dame offers the chance to work in a supportive, mission-driven setting where professionalism, respect, and care are integral to daily operations. The roles demand excellent communication skills, the ability to effectively manage time with minimal supervision, and physical stamina, including standing for extended periods and lifting up to 25 pounds. Adherence to strict food safety guidelines is paramount across all levels.

The pay rate ranges from $17.50 to $19.50 per hour, reflecting the level of experience and responsibility. Temporary Cooks become part of a university environment that not only values culinary skill but also commits to personal and professional development within a community that cherishes inclusivity and ethical values. If you are passionate about cooking and want to contribute your talents to a distinguished educational institution, the University of Notre Dame provides a compelling opportunity to advance your culinary career in a setting where your work truly matters.