Banquet Prep Cook

NCG Hospitality; Milwaukee (WI); On-site; USD 25,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

NCG Hospitality is seeking a Banquet Prep Cook to join its award-winning team in Milwaukee. The position offers starting pay of $18.00–$20.00 per hour, with flexible morning and day shifts and occasional evening shifts.

We emphasize growth, mentorship, and a supportive environment aligned with our core values across The Trade hotel. As part of the team, you will prepare and present meals, maintain inventory, and keep the kitchen clean and organized.

Qualifications

• One to two years or more of kitchen experience.
• Highest standards of service for guest satisfaction and profitability.
• Creative, organized and adaptable temperament.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepares and cooks food, ensuring attractive plate presentation.
• Know menu and recipes, including preparation procedures, plating, garnishment, portions size and presentation / special handling instructions.
• Maintains first in / first out inventory controls and dates all incoming products.
• Keeps the lines and storage stocked with all items and utensils needed for service.
• Maintains a clean kitchen by cleaning all work surfaces used in food preparation on an ongoing basis, as well as the kitchen equipment used daily.
• Maintains all food storage areas, dry and refrigerated, organized and clean.

Skills

Kitchen experience

Attention to detail

Fast-paced environment

Job description

Join a 2026 USA Today Top Workplace Winner! Starting at $18.00 - $20.00 per hour, based on experience Flexible to morning and day shifts, and occasional evening shifts Open availability The Banquet Prep Cook position is more than a job, it’s a path to a fulfilling adventure, one that you direct and we guide. A place where your impact matters, your growth is supported, and your contributions are valued. We’ll invest in you, providing tools, resources, and mentorship to help you succeed all while staying true to our core values of Growth, Fun, Trust, and Responsibility. We take great pride in the inclusive environment we’ve created attributing to our award-winning status, an experience in which team members at every level are fully engaged and can see the relationship between their job responsibilities and the overall success of the The Trade hotel.

How You’ll Make An Impact

• Prepares and cooks food, ensuring attractive plate presentation
• Possess complete knowledge of menu and recipes, including preparation procedures, plating, garnishment, portions size and presentation / special handling instructions
• Maintains first in / first out inventory controls and dates all incoming products
• Keeps the lines and storage stocked with all items and utensils needed for service
• Maintains a clean kitchen by cleaning all work surfaces used in food preparation on an ongoing basis, as well as the kitchen equipment used daily
• Maintains all food storage areas, dry and refrigerated, organized and clean

To Be Successful In This Role, You'll Bring

• One to two years or more of kitchen experience
• Consistently ensures the highest standards of service in attaining guest satisfaction and profitability
• Creative, organized, innovative and even tempered personality
• Strong attention to detail
• Ability to work in a fast paced environment

Why You'll Love Working Here

Career Growth

• Personalized career development and advancement opportunities
• Leadership training, mentorship, and educational assistance
• Opportunities to grow across 35 hotels and our Corporate Office

Team Member Perks

• Worldwide hotel discounts and complimentary stays at NCG Hospitality-managed hotels
• Referral and incentive programs to earn additional rewards
• Paid Volunteer Hours, recognition programs, and appreciation events

Health & Wellness

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Paid Time Off, Paid Sick Time, and Employee Assistance Program
• HSA/FSA options, telehealth, wellness benefits, and more

Financial Benefits

• Competitive pay with same-day pay options
• 401(k) with generous company match
• Performance bonuses for eligible positions