Banquet Cook

Santa Cruz Beach Boardwalk; Santa Cruz (CA); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Banquet Cook to join their Events Team. This role involves preparing food for large-scale gatherings, ensuring high quality and timely service in a fast-paced kitchen environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in food preparation, exceptional guest service skills, and the ability to thrive under pressure. With flexible hours, including nights and weekends, this position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to memorable events while working alongside a dedicated team. If you are passionate about culinary arts and delivering outstanding service, this role is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years of experience in food preparation, preferably in a banquet or event setting.
• Knowledge of cooking techniques, recipes, and presentation styles.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food for banquets and events following recipes and plating techniques.
• Ensure compliance with food safety procedures and health regulations.
• Collaborate with the kitchen team to maintain quality and consistency.

Skills

Food Preparation

Guest Service Skills

Cooking Techniques

Time Management

Multitasking

Education

CA Food Handler Card

Job description

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Job Summary

The Banquet Cook is responsible for preparing food items for banquets, events, and other large-scale gatherings. The successful candidate will have experience in large-scale food production, be able to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment, and have strong organizational and time management skills. The banquet cook works in a fast-paced kitchen environment, with varying hours, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays, as required to meet the demands of the banquet and event business.

Unique Job Requirements

This is a unique opportunity to join the Boardwalk's Events Team. This position must exemplify outstanding service to our Guests by owning the key Guest Service Principles: Be There, Make Their Day, Choose Your Attitude, and Have Fun.

Wears company-issued uniform, black slip-resistant closed-toed shoes, goggles, and gloves as needed. Ability to prepare food efficiently in a high-volume kitchen, with a flexible schedule including weekends, nights, and holidays. Must obtain a CA Food Handler card within 30 days of hire or show proof of existing card.

Job Tasks

• Prepare food for banquets and events following recipes and plating techniques.
• Follow food safety procedures and ensure compliance with health regulations.
• Assist in menu planning, including dietary requests.
• Ensure timely preparation and high quality of food.
• Collaborate with the kitchen team to maintain quality and consistency.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Support during busy periods, including plating.
• Follow instructions from the head chef and provide feedback.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications: Training and Experience

At least 2 years of experience in food preparation, preferably in a banquet or event setting. Knowledge of cooking techniques, recipes, and presentation styles. Outstanding guest service skills required.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Knowledge of food products, cooking skills, techniques, and styles.
• Experience with poultry, seafood, beef, sauces, and presentation.
• Safe food handling and equipment use.
• Ability to multitask, work under stress, and in hot environments.
• Proficiency in knife skills, reading recipes, and preparing garnishes.
• Ability to work as part of a team and follow instructions.

Physical Requirements

• Stand and walk for up to 8 hours.
• Perform repetitive motions, lift up to 50 pounds.
• Bi-manual dexterity, hearing, vision, and mobility requirements.

Licenses / Insurance

Must obtain a CA Food Handler card within 30 days of hire.

Testing Upon Offer of Hire

Back exam for seasonal positions; drug screen, back exam, and criminal background check for FTR positions.