Lead Cook

Ascent Hospitality; Birmingham (AL); On-site; USD 36,000 - 60,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive Salary

Health, Dental, Vision, 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 oversee daily kitchen operations, including food prep, cooking, and cleaning. The ideal candidate will have supervisory experience, strong knowledge of food safety, and leadership skills to motivate the team.

The role requires managing kitchen staff, maintaining high standards, and developing new menu items in a fast-paced environment. Evening, weekend, and holiday availability is expected.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent; culinary arts or hospitality management education preferred.
• 2+ years of supervisory kitchen experience or higher.
• 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.

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 that all kitchen equipment is properly maintained and serviced.
• Adhere to all health and safety regulations.

Skills

Communication

Leadership

Fast-paced environment

Evenings weekends holidays

Education

High school diploma

Culinary 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. If this is what you’re all about, consider joining our Team.

The Lead Cook will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the kitchen, including food preparation, cooking, and cleaning. The ideal candidate will have experience in a supervisory role, as well as a strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.

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