Banquet Kitchen Pro: High-Volume Events & Plating

Loews Hotels & Co; Illinois; Hybrid; USD 28,000 - 37,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Retirement benefits

Sick days & holidays

Training & development

Pet insurance

Complimentary parking

Complimentary meals for staff

Fitness center access

Team member hotel rates

Volunteer opportunities

Job summary

Loews Hotels & Co in the United States is seeking a Banquet Cook II to prepare high-quality menu items for hotel events. You will work with banquet staff to ensure timely delivery, proper presentation, and portion control.

The role requires 2+ years in a hotel banquet kitchen, knowledge of large-volume cooking, and flexibility with shifts for events and holidays. Liability and safety compliance are essential to success.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years' experience in a hotel, banquet, or catering kitchen.
• Knowledge of banquet-style service, buffet preparation, and large-volume cooking techniques.
• Familiarity with food safety and sanitation standards (ServSafe Certification preferred).
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, and early/late shifts based on event needs.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work flexible schedule to include weekends and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook hot and cold menu items according to event-specific Banquet Event Orders (BEOs) and hotel recipes.
• Set up, operate, and maintain assigned banquet kitchen stations (e.g., grill, sauté, carving station, buffet prep).
• Work with Cook I and Banquet Chef to ensure all food is delivered on time, with proper presentation and portion control.
• Maintain mise en place and cleanliness throughout service.
• Assist in plating and food service for buffet and plated meal functions.
• Ensure food is stored, labeled, and handled in compliance with health department and hotel sanitation standards.
• Support Cook III and junior team members with training and guidance as needed.
• Collaborate with event service staff to ensure banquet timelines and guest expectations are met.
• Respond to last-minute changes or requests with flexibility and a solutions-oriented attitude.
• Regular attendance in conformance with standards.
• May be required to work varying schedules to reflect business needs.
• Required to attend all mandatory training sessions and meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Skills

Knife skills

Pantry station

Grill station

Sauté station

Grill temperatures

Mother sauces

Under pressure

Kitchen equipment

Lifting 50 lbs

Stamina

Military veterans welcome

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Loews Hotels & Co in the United States is seeking a Banquet Cook II to prepare high-quality menu items for hotel events. You will work with banquet staff to ensure timely delivery, proper presentation, and portion control.

The role requires 2+ years in a hotel banquet kitchen, knowledge of large-volume cooking, and flexibility with shifts for events and holidays. Liability and safety compliance are essential to success.