Cook

Premier Catering & Events; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Premier Catering & Events in Chicago is seeking a full-time Cook to prepare high-quality dishes for diverse catering events. You will follow menu guidelines, assist with execution, and uphold sanitary kitchen standards.

Responsibilities include inventory support, setup and breakdown for events, and ensuring consistent presentation and portion control while adapting to flexible scheduling, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Qualifications

• Strong culinary skills and plate presentation.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen hygiene.
• Ability to follow recipes and chef instructions under time constraints.
• Experience in fast-paced catering or restaurant kitchens.
• Effective communication and teamwork with culinary and event teams.
• Physical ability to stand long hours and move equipment.
• Previous cook, line cook, or banquet/catering cook experience preferred; training a plus.
• Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare high-quality dishes according to menus and standards.
• Assist with menu execution and portion control.
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment.
• Support inventory management and stock rotation.
• Collaborate with culinary and event teams for setup and breakdown.
• Ensure consistent presentation and timely service during events.

Skills

Culinary skills

Food safety

Follow recipes

Fast-paced kitchen

Communication & teamwork

Physical stamina

Cook experience

Flexible schedule

Education

Culinary training/certification

Job description

Company Description

Premier Catering & Events, LLC is a first-class catering company serving the greater Chicagoland area with fresh gourmet cuisine and premium event services. The team is made up of experienced hospitality professionals with over 100 years of combined industry expertise. The company focuses on unique culinary concepts, flawless customer service, and meticulous attention to detail for events of all sizes. Premier Catering & Events approaches each event with strong logistical knowledge and a commitment to exceeding client expectations. The company’s mission includes creating beautiful food, delivering exceptional catering experiences, and supporting staff with opportunities for personal and financial growth.

Role Description

The Cook is a full-time, on-site position based in Chicago, IL. This role involves preparing high-quality dishes according to event menus and company standards, including chopping, cooking, seasoning, and plating food for a variety of catering occasions. The Cook will assist with menu execution, maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment, follow food safety and sanitation guidelines, and support inventory management and stock rotation. Responsibilities also include collaborating with the culinary and event teams, helping with setup and breakdown for events, and ensuring consistent presentation and portion control. The Cook is expected to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on event schedules.

Qualifications

• Strong culinary skills, including food preparation, cooking techniques, knife skills, and attention to presentation.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and kitchen hygiene practices in a high-volume catering or restaurant environment.
• Ability to follow recipes, event menus, and chef instructions while maintaining consistency and quality under time constraints.
• Experience working in a fast-paced kitchen, with strong organizational skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks during busy events.
• Effective communication and teamwork skills, with a professional and respectful approach to colleagues, clients, and vendors.
• Physical ability to stand for long periods, lift and carry catering equipment and supplies, and work in a dynamic kitchen setting.
• Previous experience as a cook, line cook, or banquet/catering cook preferred; formal culinary training or certification is a plus.
• Willingness to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, in alignment with event demands.