Cook I

Churchill Downs Incorporated; Owensboro (KY); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Churchill Downs Incorporated is seeking a dedicated F&B Cook I to prepare and cook a variety of items in a fast-paced kitchen, ensuring high quality and adherence to recipes. The role emphasizes safe handling, precise portioning, and clean, organized work areas.

Based in Kentucky, the position requires strong attention to detail, teamwork, and flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. CDI values inclusivity and culinary excellence across its venues.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Experience in a high-volume kitchen preferred.
• Knowledge of food preparation techniques and portioning.
• Familiarity with sanitation standards and safety guidelines.
• Ability to operate commercial kitchen equipment safely.
• Must obtain/maintain Kentucky gaming/racing license if required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook a variety of menu items according to recipes and standards.
• Set up and break down cooking stations; keep utensils and surfaces clean and ready.
• Monitor food quality and ensure consistency throughout preparation.
• Adhere to safety and sanitation regulations in all tasks.
• Assist with inventory by receiving and storing deliveries; report discrepancies.
• Coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure timely preparation and delivery of meals.
• Contribute to menu development with feedback on recipes and methods.

Skills

High-volume cooking

Fast-paced kitchen

Food safety knowledge

Equipment operation

Team collaboration

Flexible schedule

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Commercial kitchen equipment

Job description

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ABOUT CHURCHILL DOWNS INCORPORATED
Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, Churchill Downs Incorporated has expanded through the development of live and historical racing entertainment venues, the growth of the TwinSpires horse racing online wagering business and the operation and development of regional casino gaming properties. Churchill Downs Incorporated is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.

JOB SUMMARY

The F&B Cook I is responsible for preparing and cooking a variety of food items in accordance with established recipes and operational standards. This role plays a vital part in delivering high-quality food to guests by ensuring consistency, proper portioning, and adherence to food safety and sanitation protocols. Working in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment, the F&B Cook I contributes to the overall guest experience through timely and efficient food preparation and presentation. This position requires strong attention to detail, a passion for culinary excellence, and a commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

Prepare and Cook Food: Accurately prepare and cook a variety of menu items in accordance with established recipes, portion controls, and presentation standards.

Maintain Cooking Stations: Set up and break down cooking stations, ensuring all utensils, equipment, and surfaces are clean, sanitized, and ready for use.

Ensure Food Quality: Monitor food items throughout the preparation and cooking process to maintain consistent quality and adherence to culinary standards.

Follow Safety and Sanitation Standards: Adhere to all health and safety regulations, including proper food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures.

Assist with Inventory: Receive, inspect, and store deliveries; alert supervisors of any discrepancies, shortages, or quality issues with supplies.

Collaborate with Team Members: Communicate and coordinate with other kitchen staff to ensure the timely preparation and delivery of food items.

Support Menu Development: Provide feedback to the Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager on menu items, preparation methods, and potential new recipes.

Operate Equipment Safely: Use kitchen equipment responsibly, reporting any issues or malfunctions to supervisors for prompt maintenance.

Resolve Food Prep Issues: Address and resolve any problems related to food quality, timing, or preparation in a professional and efficient manner.

Ensure Policy Compliance: Comply with all applicable laws, safety guidelines, and company policies during food preparation and service.

Perform Other Duties as Assigned: Take on additional kitchen tasks and responsibilities as directed to support overall kitchen operations.

REQUIRED SKILLS AND ABILITIES

Ability to prepare and cook a variety of food items in a high-volume, fast-paced kitchen environment.

Strong knowledge of food preparation techniques, portion control, and recipe adherence.

Understanding of food safety regulations and sanitation standards, with the ability to apply them consistently.

Proficient in the use of commercial kitchen equipment and tools, including proper maintenance and safe operation.

Strong organizational skills and attention to detail to ensure food quality and presentation standards are met.

Ability to work collaboratively as part of a culinary team, maintaining effective communication with coworkers and supervisors.

Capacity to work under pressure and manage multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining a high level of efficiency.

Willingness to take direction, accept feedback, and follow established procedures.

Dependability and flexibility to work a variable schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Basic understanding of inventory procedures and supply management.

Ability to maintain a clean and safe work environment at all times.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Kentucky gaming/racing license.

Must be at least 21 years of age to apply.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

High school diploma or equivalent is required.

Previous experience in a high-volume kitchen or fast-paced culinary environment is preferred.

Demonstrated knowledge of food preparation techniques, including portion control, safe food handling, and recipe adherence.

Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, tools, and proper maintenance practices.

Understanding of sanitation standards and food safety guidelines, including proper storage and handling of ingredients.

Ability to follow standardized recipes and maintain consistency in food preparation and presentation.

Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Kentucky gaming/racing license in accordance with state regulations.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & WORKING CONDITIONS

This position requires the ability to stand and remain on your feet for extended periods of time while preparing and cooking food.

Frequent use of hands and arms is necessary to handle kitchen tools, equipment, and ingredients.

The role may occasionally require sitting, bending, stooping, and reaching overhead or below waist level.

Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and peripheral vision to safely operate equipment and monitor food quality.

Must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds regularly, and occasionally more with assistance if needed.

Work environment is fast-paced, often in hot, humid, or noisy kitchen conditions.

Exposure to sharp objects, hot surfaces, and potentially hazardous kitchen equipment is frequent.

Must follow all safety and sanitation procedures to prevent accidents and ensure a clean food preparation environment.

When in public areas of the facility, employees may be exposed to loud noise levels and secondhand smoke from the gaming floor.

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

CHURCHILL DOWNS INCORPORATED

Churchill Downs Incorporated (“CDI”) (Nasdaq: CHDN) has been creating extraordinary entertainment experiences for over 150 years, beginning with the company’s most iconic and enduring asset, the Kentucky Derby. Headquartered in Louisville, Kentucky, CDI has expanded through the acquisition, development, and operation of live and historical racing entertainment venues, the growth of online wagering businesses, and the acquisition, development, and operation of regional casino gaming properties.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, or disability.

Work With Us

Churchill Downs Incorporated is an inclusive and fun place to work. We celebrate unique approaches and points of view. We believe diversity is a mindset that drives excellence. We’re always learning, evolving and growing. We innovate through mutual respect of ideas and collaboration. This allows us to build a common language that inspires our team members and propels us toward the achievement of our vision.