Job Description
The Virginia Catering Company, operated by UVA Dine, is seeking a skilled and dedicated Catering Production Cook to join our culinary team. This role is crucial for the efficient and high-quality preparation of food for various catering events across the University of Virginia grounds. The Catering Production Cook will be responsible for preparing a wide range of menu items, adhering to strict food safety standards, and contributing to a dynamic and fast-paced kitchen environment.
Benefits:
Aramark offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, which may include:
- Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan (with potential company match based on eligibility)
- Paid Time Off (PTO) / Vacation and Sick Leave accruals
- Paid Holidays (for eligible positions)
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Life and Disability Insurance
- Opportunities for career growth and development
Job Responsibilities
- Prepare and cook a variety of food items according to standardized recipes, production sheets, and catering event specifications.
- Execute all steps of food preparation, including washing, chopping, slicing, mixing, and cooking.
- Ensure all food is prepared to the highest standards of taste, quality, and presentation.
- Operate and maintain all kitchen equipment safely and efficiently (e.g., ovens, stoves, grills, mixers, slicers).
- Adhere strictly to all food safety and sanitation guidelines, including HACCP principles, proper temperature control, and cross-contamination prevention.
- Monitor food production to minimize waste and control costs without compromising quality.
- Assist with inventory management, including receiving, storing, and rotating food supplies.
- Maintain a clean and organized workstation, kitchen area, and storage facilities.
- Collaborate effectively with other culinary team members, catering staff, and management to ensure smooth production and successful event execution.
- Participate in daily production meetings to review menus, timelines, and special instructions for events.
- Ensure timely completion of all assigned tasks to meet event deadlines.
Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent. Culinary degree or certification preferred.
- Minimum of 2-3 years of experience as a Cook in a high-volume kitchen, catering, or banquet setting.
- Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, cooking methods, and various cuisines.
- Proficiency in knife skills and general kitchen equipment operation.
- Solid understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations (HACCP).
- Ability to read and follow standardized recipes accurately.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
- Good communication and teamwork skills.
- ServSafe certification required or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe.
Physical Demands:
- Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (8+ hours).
- Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds frequently.
- Ability to work in a kitchen environment, which may include exposure to hot, cold, and wet conditions.
- Manual dexterity for precise food preparation tasks.
- Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and climb as needed.
Education
Job Tags