Lead Cook

Crowne Plaza Edison; Edison (NJ); On-site; USD 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

Crowne Plaza Edison is seeking a Lead Line Cook to oversee daily kitchen operations and ensure food is prepared to the highest quality standards. This role includes leading and supervising line cooks, coordinating service, and maintaining cleanliness and safety in a fast-paced environment.

The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of experience in a professional kitchen, preferably with leadership experience, and a strong knowledge of cooking and safety protocols. A flexible schedule is necessary, including nights and weekends.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in a professional kitchen.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations.
• Ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise line cooks during prep and service.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared according to recipes, quality standards, and presentation guidelines.
• Coordinate ticket flow and manage timing to ensure efficient service.
• Assist with food prep, cooking, and plating as needed.
• Train and mentor new kitchen staff.

Skills

Leadership and team motivation

Attention to detail and consistency

Ability to multitask and prioritize

Problem-solving under pressure

Reliability and strong work ethic

Job description

The Lead Line Cook oversees daily kitchen operations on the line, ensuring food is prepared efficiently, consistently, and to the highest quality standards. This role supports kitchen leadership by supervising line staff, maintaining organization during service, and upholding food safety and cleanliness standards in a fast-paced environment.

We are a drug-free workplace and participate in E-Verify.

What you will be doing

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise line cooks during prep and service
• Ensure all dishes are prepared according to recipes, quality standards, and presentation guidelines
• Coordinate ticket flow and manage timing to ensure efficient service
• Assist with food prep, cooking, and plating as needed
• Train and mentor new kitchen staff
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate shortages to management
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health regulations
• Step in to support other stations during busy periods
• Assist with opening and closing kitchen duties

Requirements: Due to the cyclical nature of the hospitality industry, employees may be required to work varying schedules (including nights, holidays and weekends) to reflect the business needs of the hotel. In addition, attendance at all scheduled training sessions and meetings is required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in a professional kitchen
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations
• Ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities

Skills & Traits

• Leadership and team motivation
• Attention to detail and consistency
• Ability to multitask and prioritize
• Problem-solving under pressure
• Reliability and strong work ethic

Work Environment

• Fast-paced kitchen setting with high heat and noise levels
• Requires standing for long periods and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays

All employees are required to project a friendly, welcoming, and positive attitude.