Banquet Cook

BENCHMARK; Gainesville (FL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Hilton University of Florida Conference Center, a property managed by Pyramid Global Hospitality, invites applications for a Cook role on our culinary team. You will develop skills across cooking methods, assist in producing food for various service lines, and support the kitchen leadership in maintaining quality and efficiency.

The role emphasizes creative collaboration, adherence to food safety, and contributing to a world-class dining program within a vibrant university setting.

Qualifications

• Active Food handler’s certification or the ability to get it.
• Must be willing to work a variety of day/night and weekend shifts.
• Requires strong organizational skills.
• Must be able to work independently.
• Able to be on your feet for long periods.
• Able to lift at least 50 pounds.
• At least 21 years of age.
• Have a desire to exceed expectations.
• An energetic personality.

Responsibilities

• Develop knowledge and skills in cooking procedures (grill, sauté and fry).
• Experience using knives and kitchen equipment.
• Prepare ingredients for cooking and ensure sanitation.
• Maintain a sanitized and orderly kitchen environment.
• Ensure proper storage of food items and quality ingredients.
• Collaborate with culinary leadership to create menus reflecting seasonal availability and concept.

Skills

Food handler's certification

Willing to work day/night shifts

Strong organizational skills

Independent worker

Stamina to stand long periods

Ability to lift 50 pounds

Energetic personality

Desire to exceed expectations

Job description

Pyramid Global Hospitality is a leading hospitality management company with a portfolio of more than 200 hotels and resorts and over 18,000 associates across the United States, Caribbean, and Europe. Our platform includes Benchmark Resorts & Hotels, a collection of distinctive independent properties; Axiom Hospitality, our European hotel management company; and PYRAMIDWORKS, which provides integrated workplace and facilities services. With corporate offices in Boston, The Woodlands, Texas, and London, Pyramid combines global scale with a hands‑on approach focused on exceptional service, operational excellence, and long-term partnerships. At Pyramid, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to creating an environment where associates are respected, supported, and empowered to grow their careers. Team members have the opportunity to collaborate directly with experienced leaders, take on meaningful stretch assignments, and gain exposure to a diverse portfolio of properties, brands, and markets. Whether you are beginning your hospitality career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to learn, develop, and make an impact. Our commitment to associates, guests, owners, and the communities we serve has helped make Pyramid and our properties among the most recognized in hospitality. From being named among the best places to work by respected publications such as USA Today, The Boston Globe, and The Houston Chronicle to earning top travel accolades from Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, and U.S. News & World Report, these recognitions reflect the culture, service excellence, and commitment to people that define the Pyramid experience.

About our property:

Embark on a career at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center, a distinctive property managed by Pyramid Global, where hospitality meets academic excellence. With 248 well‑appointed guest rooms, 10 versatile meeting spaces, and 30,811 sq ft of meeting space, our hotel provides a unique workplace nestled within the vibrant atmosphere of the University of Florida. Join our team and experience a work environment that reflects the energetic spirit of the university community. At Pyramid Global, we offer comprehensive benefits, including a 401k with a company match, and recognition programs tailored to acknowledge your dedication. If you're seeking a career that blends hospitality with the dynamic atmosphere of a prestigious institution, consider joining us at the Hilton University of Florida Conference Center. Your journey towards a fulfilling career in this unique setting begins here.

What you will have an opportunity to do:

• We are looking for someone passionate about the culinary arts to join our Culinary team.
• This individual must be creative, motivated, and passionate about growing their talents in the kitchen!
• Successful candidates for this role will have previous experience working in a professional kitchen environment, with a strong desire to learn, to develop skills and work with the culinary leadership team to create menus which reflect seasonal availability and concept of the restaurant.
• The Cook assists the Chef in production and fabrication of food products for kitchen preparation, cafeteria, banquet cooking, dining room, and fine dining.
• The Cook will maintain a passive leadership role in maintaining adequate production level form the Kitchen staff.

Your Role:

• You will develop your knowledge and skills in various cooking procedures and methods (grill, sauté and fry)
• You will have the opportunity to experience using knives and various kitchen equipment
• You will reach and recreate recipes
• You will be consistent on all food preparation
• You will learn how to minimize food waste through cross utilization
• You will have the opportunity to work with a world class culinary team
• You will create workstations with all needed ingredients and cooking equipment
• You will prepare ingredients to use in cooking (chopping and peeling vegetables, cutting meat)
• You will keep a sanitized and orderly environment in the kitchen
• You will ensure all food and other items are stored properly
• You will be responsible for the quality of ingredients

What are we looking for?

• Active Food handler’s certification or the ability to get it
• Must be willing to work a variety of day/night and weekend shifts
• Requires strong organizational skills
• Must be able to work independently
• Able to be on your feet for long periods of time
• Able to lift at least 50 pounds
• At least 21 years of age
• Have a desire to exceed expectations
• An energetic personality

Compensation:

- Pyramid Global Hospitality is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Actual compensation packages are based on a wide array of factors unique to each candidate, including but not limited to skill set, years & depth of experience, certifications and specific office location. This may differ in other locations due to cost of labor considerations. Pyramid Global Hospitality is a leading hospitality management company with a portfolio of more than 200 hotels and resorts and over 18,000 associates across the United States, Caribbean, and Europe. Our platform includes Benchmark Resorts & Hotels, a collection of distinctive independent properties; Axiom Hospitality, our European hotel management company; and PYRAMIDWORKS, which provides integrated workplace and facilities services. With corporate offices in Boston, The Woodlands, Texas, and London, Pyramid combines global scale with a hands‑on approach focused on exceptional service, operational excellence, and long-term partnerships. At Pyramid, our people are at the heart of everything we do. We are committed to creating an environment where associates are respected, supported, and empowered to grow their careers. Team members have the opportunity to collaborate directly with experienced leaders, take on meaningful stretch assignments, and gain exposure to a diverse portfolio of properties, brands, and markets. Whether you are beginning your hospitality career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to learn, develop, and make an impact. Our commitment to associates, guests, owners, and the communities we serve has helped make Pyramid and our properties among the most recognized in hospitality. From being named among the best places to work by respected publications such as USA Today, The Boston Globe, and The Houston Chronicle to earning top travel accolades from Travel + Leisure, Condé Nast Traveler, Forbes Travel Guide, and U.S. News & World Report, these recognitions reflect the culture, service excellence, and commitment to people that define the Pyramid experience.