Onsite Event Cook & Prep Specialist

On The Marc Events; Washington; On-site; USD 25,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

ONTHEMARC is seeking an Event Cook to execute high-quality cooking and plating for on- and offsite events, delivering menu items to spec under tight timelines.

The role requires professional kitchen experience, strong food safety knowledge, and the ability to work a flexible schedule including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. You will prep, cook, plate, and support service with teamwork and pride.

Qualifications

• Experienced in a professional kitchen environment (restaurant, catering, banquet, or similar).
• Confident in foundational cooking methods (roasting, sautéing, grilling, blanching, braising) and safe knife handling.
• Able to follow recipes, prep lists, and chef direction accurately at speed.
• Knowledgeable about food safety, sanitation, and temperature control (hot/cold holding).
• Comfortable with physically demanding work, including standing for extended periods and lifting/bending/carrying in hot environments.
• A clear communicator who stays steady and team-oriented during high-pressure service.
• Able to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ideally certified in food safety (e.g., ServSafe Food Handler/Manager or equivalent) and familiar with dietary restrictions/allergen-aware practices.

Responsibilities

• Prep ingredients and components in advance of events, including portioning, chopping, and assembling items as directed.
• Cook and finish menu items to spec, ensuring correct seasoning, doneness, and overall quality.
• Reheat and hold food appropriately to support smooth, continuous service during event windows.
• Plate menu items with speed and consistency while meeting event standards and timing cues.
• Garnish dishes accurately to maintain presentation standards across all portions.
• Maintain clean, organized workstations and follow sanitation standards throughout prep and service.
• Monitor food temperatures and hot/cold holding practices to ensure safe, compliant service.
• Follow allergen-aware handling practices and dietary restriction requirements when assigned.
• Assist with kitchen/station setup and breakdown, including packing and transport support as needed.
• Support equipment and supply readiness in offsite environments, adapting to changing setups and constraints.
• Communicate proactively with the Onsite Event Chef on timing, counts, and issues impacting service flow.
• Flag low inventory, refires, and replenishment needs in real time to prevent service gaps.
• Collaborate calmly with the culinary team under pressure to meet guest expectations and service timelines.

Skills

Professional kitchen experience

Food safety knowledge

Team communication

Education

ServSafe certification (preferred)

Job description

ONTHEMARC is seeking an Event Cook to execute high-quality cooking and plating for on- and offsite events, delivering menu items to spec under tight timelines.

The role requires professional kitchen experience, strong food safety knowledge, and the ability to work a flexible schedule including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. You will prep, cook, plate, and support service with teamwork and pride.