Culinary Externship: Hands-On Kitchen Immersion

HEI Hotels & Resorts; Fairfield (CT); On-site; USD 21,000 - 34,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical and Dental programs

Vision insurance

Paid time off & holidays

Pet insurance

Life and disability coverage

401(k) matching

Hotel room discounts

Job summary

HEI Hotels & Resorts seeks a Culinary Extern in Connecticut to gain hands-on experience in a professional hotel kitchen alongside our culinary team. The role supports high-quality food preparation aligned with brand standards and CIA academic requirements.

The externship emphasizes practical learning, collaboration with chefs, and exposure to daily kitchen operations while meeting graduation requirements.

Qualifications

• The candidate is a current student at The Culinary Institute of America and externship is required for graduation.
• Kitchen experience is preferred but not mandatory.
• Grounded knowledge of culinary fundamentals and sanitation practices.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
• Dexterity to safely operate kitchen tools and equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Clear verbal communication and teamwork skills.
• Willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced setting.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food according to recipes, production methods, and presentation standards.
• Assist in mise en place, prepping vegetables, proteins, sauces, and garnishes.
• Maintain proper food handling, sanitation, and safety procedures.
• Label, date, and rotate food following FIFO.
• Support line cooks during service for timely plate execution.
• Learn knife skills, butchery fundamentals, and sauce preparation.
• Assist with inventory control and minimizing waste.
• Operate and maintain kitchen equipment and clean workstation.
• Participate in tastings and culinary meetings when applicable.
• Perform additional culinary duties to support learning objectives.

Skills

Kitchen skills

Sanitation knowledge

Attention to detail

Team communication

Willingness to learn

Dexterity with tools

Physical endurance

Food safety awareness

Education

CIA externship student

Job description

HEI Hotels & Resorts seeks a Culinary Extern in Connecticut to gain hands-on experience in a professional hotel kitchen alongside our culinary team. The role supports high-quality food preparation aligned with brand standards and CIA academic requirements.

The externship emphasizes practical learning, collaboration with chefs, and exposure to daily kitchen operations while meeting graduation requirements.