Founding Second Cook for Wellness Spa Kitchen

Yora Nordic Spa - Brownstone; Portland (CT); On-site; USD 38,000 - 64,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Paid time off

Wellness privileges and discounts

Bistro and retail discounts

Training and development opportunities

Job summary

Yora Nordic Spa is opening in November 2026 and is building its founding Kitchen team. The Second Cook will support the Sous Chef and First Cooks, following recipes and production standards to deliver high-quality dishes for our first guests.

This is a hands-on culinary position that values quality, pride in craft and opportunity to develop in a growing wellness brand. Must be flexible for pre-opening periods and weekends.

Qualifications

• Previous culinary experience in a restaurant, hotel, resort, cafe or similar food-service environment is preferred.
• A basic understanding of food preparation, kitchen organization and food safety.
• The ability to follow standardized recipes and production instructions accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and a commitment to food quality and cleanliness.
• The ability to work efficiently and remain organized in a fast-paced kitchen.
• A willingness to learn, receive feedback and develop new culinary skills.
• The ability to communicate clearly and work collaboratively as part of a culinary team.
• Appropriate food-safety certification or the willingness to obtain it within the required timeframe.
• Culinary education, apprenticeship or equivalent practical experience is considered an asset.

Responsibilities

• Prepare assigned menu items accurately and consistently according to approved recipes and production standards.
• Follow established portions, preparation methods and presentation requirements.
• Complete assigned preparation and production within established timelines.
• Maintain food quality throughout preparation and service and raise concerns before food reaches the guest.
• Support dietary requirements and allergen procedures with accuracy and care.
• Maintain proper food storage, labeling, rotation, temperature control and sanitation.
• Use FIFO and established inventory-rotation practices to reduce spoilage and unnecessary loss.
• Maintain a clean, organized, stocked and safe workstation.
• Use kitchen tools and equipment correctly and report maintenance or safety concerns promptly.
• Complete assigned opening, production, cleaning and closing responsibilities.
• Maintain consistency and organization during high-volume preparation and service periods.
• Work collaboratively with the Sous Chef, First Cooks and fellow culinary team members.
• Participate actively in training, seek feedback and apply coaching in everyday work.
• Follow recipe yields and portion standards and minimize waste through responsible preparation and product handling.

Skills

Culinary teamwork

Attention to detail

Food safety

Following recipes

Fast-paced environment

Willingness to learn

Education

Culinary education/apprenticeship

On-the-job training

Job description

Yora Nordic Spa is opening in November 2026 and is building its founding Kitchen team. The Second Cook will support the Sous Chef and First Cooks, following recipes and production standards to deliver high-quality dishes for our first guests.

This is a hands-on culinary position that values quality, pride in craft and opportunity to develop in a growing wellness brand. Must be flexible for pre-opening periods and weekends.