Lead Cook

Ascent Hospitality; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 34,000 - 42,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

Dental insurance

Vision insurance

Life insurance

401k with employer MATCH

Paid PTO

Uniforms provided

Team Member Hotel Discount Program

Job summary

Ascent Hospitality is seeking a Lead Cook to manage daily kitchen operations in Birmingham, AL. The role requires supervising cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashers while ensuring meals meet high standards of quality and safety.

You will maintain a clean, organized kitchen, oversee inventory, train staff on safety, and help develop menu items. Flexibility to work evenings and weekends is essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; culinary arts education preferred.
• Several years in a commercial kitchen with progression to line cook or sous chef.
• Proficiency in cooking techniques, food safety standards, and kitchen equipment operation.
• Proven ability to supervise and mentor kitchen staff and manage schedules.

Responsibilities

• Supervise kitchen staff, including cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashers.
• Ensure that all food is prepared and cooked to the highest standards.
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen.
• Monitor inventory levels and order supplies as needed.
• Train new kitchen staff on food safety and sanitation practices.
• Develop and implement new menu items.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is properly maintained and serviced.
• Adhere to all health and safety regulations.

Skills

Staff supervision

Leadership

Food safety

Communication

Adaptability

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Culinary arts education preferred

Job description

Ascent Hospitality has an extensive portfolio of hotels and a strong pipeline of new properties and acquisitions, but we’re not about numbers…we’re about people and that remains our foundation. Our culture expresses a memorable experience for all of our Team Members and guests alike. So we’re constantly looking for individuals who work well together for a unified purpose. For our leadership, we’re looking for accomplished individuals with a passion to serve others, strong communicators who clearly understand the needs of others and trendsetters who excel at challenges and change.

Ascent Hospitality is looking for a uniquely qualified hospitality leader to be our Lead Cook.

BENEFITS

• Competitive Salary!
• Benefits - Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance, and other supplemental options!
• 401k with employer MATCH!
• Paid PTO!
• Uniforms Provided for most positions!
• Team Member Hotel Discount Program!

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

• Supervise kitchen staff, including cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashers
• Ensure that all food is prepared and cooked to the highest standards
• Maintain a clean and organized kitchen
• Monitor inventory levels and order supplies as needed
• Train new kitchen staff on food safety and sanitation practices
• Develop and implement new menu items
• Ensure that all kitchen equipment is properly maintained and serviced
• Adhere to all health and safety regulations

SPECIFIC JOB KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS AND ABILITIES

• High school diploma or equivalent
• At least 2 years of experience in a supervisory role in a kitchen environment
• Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
• Excellent communication and leadership skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed

PHYSICAL DEMANDS

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work in a hot and humid environment

QUALIFICATION STANDARDS

• High school diploma or equivalent; additional culinary arts or hospitality management education preferred.
• Several years in a commercial kitchen or food service, with progression to roles like line cook or sous chef.
• Proficiency in cooking techniques, food safety standards, and kitchen equipment operation.
• Proven ability to supervise and motivate kitchen staff, including training and mentoring.
• Strong ability to manage kitchen operations, including inventory and food preparation schedules.
• Clear communication to coordinate with kitchen staff, front-of-house team, and management.
• Quick resolution of kitchen issues, such as equipment problems or customer complaints.
• Understanding of food handling, sanitation, and kitchen cleanliness regulations.
• Collaborative work style to support kitchen staff and achieve common goals.
• Flexibility to work in a fast-paced environment, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

EEO Employer