Banquets Cook I

kalaharijobs; Woodford (VA); On-site; USD 31,000 - 38,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401(k) matching

Paid time off

Holiday compensation

Health insurance

Employee discounts

Education assistance

Job summary

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is seeking a Banquet Cook I to support the banquet chef and keep our banquet kitchen running smoothly. You will prepare banquet meals, visually inspect food, ensure items meet quality standards, and help maintain clean, safe kitchen and storage areas while minimizing waste.

Ideal candidates have at least 1 year in a fast-paced kitchen, can work nights/weekends/holidays, and can lift up to 50 lbs. Competitive benefits and growth opportunities are provided.

Qualifications

• 1+ years of experience in a high-volume restaurant/food/concessions outlet production kitchen preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, busy environment and meet deadlines with attention to detail.
• Able to stand prolonged periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook menu items to order while maintaining quality, consistency, and presentation standards.
• Support Restaurant Chef or Sous Chef in daily kitchen operations and service flow.
• Complete prep lists, stock stations, and maintain product levels.
• Follow food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards.
• Maintain clean, safe, and organized kitchen and storage areas.
• Support waste reduction, portion control, and efficient food production.
• Communicate effectively with culinary leaders and team members to keep service running smoothly.

Skills

Food preparation

Restaurant cooking

Kitchen operations

Food safety

Job description

Banquet Cook I

At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, we don’t just create vacations—we craft unforgettable experiences. Home to America’s Largest Indoor Waterparks, our African‑inspired resorts offer world‑class dining, luxurious spas, thrilling entertainment, and cutting‑edge convention centers that redefine hospitality.

But we’re more than a resort. As a family‑owned company, our Promise is simple: Lead with Love. This means caring deeply for our guests, associates, and communities—treating people like family, giving back generously, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued.

Through our partnership with charity: water,we’re also committed to bringing clean water to one million people in Africa.

In this role, you’ll support the Banquet Chef and help keep our banquet kitchen operation running smoothly. You’ll assist with preparing food for banquet meals, visually inspect food before it is served, and help ensure every item meets the quality standards set by our department and resort leadership. You’ll also play an important role in maintaining clean, safe, and organized kitchen and storage areas while helping minimize waste and support efficient production.

As part of our team, you’ll bring our Promise to Lead with Love to life by preparing banquet and event food with consistency, care, and quality.

Pay Rate: Starting at $15/hr.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook menu items to order while maintaining quality, consistency, and presentation standards.
• Support the Restaurant Chef or Sous Chef in daily kitchen operations and service flow.
• Complete prep lists, stock stations, and maintain product levels.
• Follow food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards.
• Help maintain clean, safe, and organized kitchen and storage areas.
• Support waste reduction, portion control, and efficient food production.
• Communicate effectively with culinary leaders and team members to keep service running smoothly.

WhatWe’reLooking For

• 1+ years of experience in a high-volume restaurant/food/concessions outlet production kitchen is preferred.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced, busy, and somewhat stressful environment, work under pressure, and meet deadlines with particular attention to detail.
• Must be able to withstand prolonged standing, stretching, bending, kneeling, lifting, and carrying items weighing up to 50 lbs. without restriction.

• Ability to work on nights, weekends, and holidays.

A Sampling of Our Benefits

Our team enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Career growth opportunities with promotion from within

• 401(k) matching, paid time off, and holiday compensation

• Health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time associates

• Employee appreciation events, discounts, and perks at all resorts

• Education assistance programs to help advance your career

Be Part of Something Extraordinary

At Kalahari, we believe the best leaders Lead with Love—because love builds trust, inspires growth, and creates experiences that last a lifetime. That’s why we’re proud to be recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Midsize Employers, America’s Best Employers for Women, and by USA TODAY as the #1 Best Indoor Water Park.

Here, careers thrive, innovation is encouraged, and every day brings new opportunities to create meaningful moments. Whether you’re delivering guest service, crafting memorable meals, or leading a team, your work makes a real impact.

| Wisconsin Dells, WI | Sandusky, OH | Pocono Manor, PA | Round Rock, TX | Spotsylvania County, VA |

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an Equal Opportunity Employer.