Cook II

Quest Food Management Services; Wheaton (IL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

Quest Food Management Services in Wheaton, IL, is seeking a Cook II to deliver high‑quality menu items in a retail dining setting. You will prepare dishes according to recipes, maintain a clean kitchen, and support daily production goals while following health and safety standards.

The role emphasizes teamwork, inventory awareness, and waste reduction, with opportunities to mentor junior staff and improve operational efficiency.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 2 years of experience in a professional cooking or food preparation role.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards (e.g., ServSafe certification or equivalent).
• Ability to follow detailed recipes and instructions accurately.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook menu items according to standardized recipes and quality standards.
• Ensure all food is prepared in compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food preparation areas.
• Assist in inventory management by monitoring stock levels and reporting shortages.
• Collaborate with team members to meet production schedules and customer demand.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
• Support training and mentoring of junior kitchen staff as needed.
• Contribute to minimizing food waste through proper portion control and storage.

Skills

Recipe adherence

Food safety

Kitchen equipment operation

Communication

Teamwork

Inventory management

Nutrition knowledge

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Job description

About Company

For over 40 years, Quest Food Management Services has been a leading food service provider serving K-12 schools, higher education institutions, corporate dining programs, and event venues. Quest is consistently ranked among the top food service management companies in the United States for its commitment to fresh, scratch made menus, local sourcing, and intensely personal service. At the heart of our success is our “Quest Ready” culture, built on integrity, responsiveness, accountability, respect, and excellence.

About Company

For over 40 years, Quest Food Management Services has been a leading food service provider serving K-12 schools, higher education institutions, corporate dining programs, and event venues. Quest is consistently ranked among the top food service management companies in the United States for its commitment to fresh, scratch made menus, local sourcing, and intensely personal service. At the heart of our success is our “Quest Ready” culture, built on integrity, responsiveness, accountability, respect, and excellence. Being Quest Ready means serving with purpose and care, creating experiences that are nourishing, welcoming, and reliable. This mindset empowers our teams to build lasting relationships and continually raise the standard for great hospitality in every community we serve.

About The Role

The Cook II position plays a critical role in delivering high-quality food products within a retail trade environment, ensuring customer satisfaction through consistent preparation and presentation. This role involves preparing a variety of menu items according to established recipes and safety standards, maintaining a clean and organized kitchen workspace, and collaborating with team members to meet daily production goals. The Cook II is responsible for monitoring inventory levels, assisting with ordering supplies, and minimizing waste to support operational efficiency. This position requires adherence to food safety regulations and company policies to maintain a safe and sanitary environment. Ultimately, the Cook II contributes to the overall success of the retail food service operation by providing excellent culinary products and supporting a positive customer experience.

Minimum Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• At least 2 years of experience in a professional cooking or food preparation role.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards (e.g., ServSafe certification or equivalent).
• Ability to follow detailed recipes and instructions accurately.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.

Preferred Qualifications

• Culinary school diploma or certificate.
• Experience working in a retail food service environment.
• Familiarity with inventory management and ordering processes.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Basic knowledge of nutrition and dietary restrictions.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook menu items according to standardized recipes and quality standards.
• Ensure all food is prepared in compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and food preparation areas.
• Assist in inventory management by monitoring stock levels and reporting shortages.
• Collaborate with team members to meet production schedules and customer demand.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
• Support training and mentoring of junior kitchen staff as needed.
• Contribute to minimizing food waste through proper portion control and storage.

Skills

The required skills such as recipe adherence, food safety knowledge, and kitchen equipment operation are essential for daily food preparation and ensuring compliance with health standards. Effective communication and teamwork skills enable smooth coordination with colleagues to meet production targets and maintain a positive work environment. Inventory management skills help in tracking supplies and reducing waste, contributing to cost efficiency. Preferred skills like culinary training and knowledge of nutrition enhance the quality and variety of menu offerings, allowing the Cook II to adapt to customer needs and preferences. Overall, these skills combine to support consistent food quality, operational efficiency, and customer satisfaction in a fast-paced retail setting.