Kitchen Cook I - Lead a Small Team, Onsite Dining

University of Massachusetts Amherst; Amherst (MA); On-site; USD 40,000 - 52,000; Full time

Job summary

University of Massachusetts Amherst is seeking a Cook I at Worcester Dining Commons in Amherst to prepare and cook food in large-scale quantities, evaluate quality, and lead a small station. You will train kitchen staff as needed and assist with more complex dishes.

The role requires at least one year of experience, a food handler certificate within six months, knowledge of safe food handling, and ability to supervise and ensure timely service.

Qualifications

• At least one year of full-time or equivalent experience in the preparation and cooking of food in a hotel, restaurant, cafeteria, catering firm, government or private institution.
• Incumbents must be certified as food handlers within six months of the appointment start date through a recognized program approved by the University of Massachusetts.
• Knowledge of standard methods and techniques used in food handling, storage, preparation and cooking in large quantities.

Responsibilities

• Prepares food items according to recipe and SOPs to fill customer orders in a timely fashion.
• Accounts for inventory, prep sheets, and par levels; ensures sanitation and quality of finished products.
• Assigns staff to positions within the station for maximum efficiency.
• Interacts with customers regarding questions or complaints.
• Maintains sanitation and safety standards in food preparation areas.
• Monitors quality and timeliness of food served to ensure consistency.
• Executes complex dishes and assists with higher-level recipes when needed.

Skills

Food preparation

Team supervision

Food safety

Reading recipes

Customer interaction

Education

High school diploma or equivalent (culinary arts/food services)

Tools

Ovens and stoves

Industrial kitchen equipment

Job description

University of Massachusetts Amherst is seeking a Cook I at Worcester Dining Commons in Amherst to prepare and cook food in large-scale quantities, evaluate quality, and lead a small station. You will train kitchen staff as needed and assist with more complex dishes.

The role requires at least one year of experience, a food handler certificate within six months, knowledge of safe food handling, and ability to supervise and ensure timely service.