Prep Cook

ExplorUS; Stanley (VA); On-site; USD 20,000 - 28,000; Full time

Job summary

Shenandoah Hospitality is seeking a Prep Cook to work seasonally at Big Meadows Lodge and Skyland Resort in Shenandoah National Park. The position offers an hourly rate of $17.50 and reports to the Kitchen Manager within the Food & Beverage department.

Responsibilities include following corporate recipes, maintaining safety and sanitation, logging food safety records, and potentially obtaining ServSafe certification. Flexible shifts across days, nights, weekends, and holidays are required.

Qualifications

• Education: High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: Culinary training/experience (1 year minimum).

Responsibilities

• Assist the Kitchen Manager and Lead Cook in meeting menu and guest service expectations.
• Be a strong team member of a culinary crew focused on a positive attitude and teamwork.
• Follow Company recipes and Safe Food Handling procedures for a great guest experience.
• Complete required food and safety logs per Company procedures and regulations.
• Obtain ServSafe or State Food Handler Certification per policy.
• Work varied day, night, weekend and holiday shifts as needed.
• Understand ISO, Health and Safety standards and contribute to related responsibilities.
• Adhere to Duties Checklist and other assigned tasks.

Skills

Food preparation

Sanitation

Kitchen equipment

Communication

Physical stamina

Education

High School Diploma or equivalent

Job description

Imagine spending your workday surrounded by breathtaking mountain views, cascading waterfalls, and over 500 miles of scenic trails. A career at Shenandoah Hospitality offers more than just a job—it provides the opportunity to be part of a team dedicated to preserving one of America's most beautiful national treasures while creating unforgettable experiences for millions of visitors each year. Whether you're interested in hospitality, food service, retail, maintenance, or guest services, you'll gain valuable skills, build lifelong friendships, and enjoy the unique experience of living and working in the heart of the Blue Ridge Mountains. If you're looking for meaningful work, adventure, and memories that will last a lifetime, Shenandoah National Park is the perfect place to begin your next journey.

This is a seasonal position with anticipated dates as indicated below:

• Big Meadows Lodge - estimated start date 4/26/2027 and anticipated end date of 11/9/2027
• Skyland Resort - estimated start date 3/22/2027 and anticipated end date of 11/30/2027

Hourly rate of pay: $17.50

Title: Prep Cook

Reports To: Kitchen Manager

Department: Food & Beverage

Summary of Position:

Responsible for preparing food items in accordance with Corporate recipes and established standards in the Company’s efforts to deliver extraordinary hospitality.

Responsibilities:

• Assist the Kitchen Manager and Lead Cook in ensuring that the menu, which cannot be changed without Corporate F&B approval, and guest service expectations, as set forth by the Employee Handbook are being met or exceeded.
• Become a strong member of an efficient and highly motivated culinary team focused on surpassing expectations by presenting a positive, can-do attitude very day.
• Adhere to defined Company recipes and Safe Food Handling procedures in order to deliver an exceptional guest experience.
• Complete all required food and safety logs in a timely and efficient manner per Company procedures and Federal, State, and Local regulations
• Obtain ServSafe or State Food Handler Certification in accordance with F&B company policy
• Comply with time and attendance policies and be able to work a variety of day, night, weekend and holiday shifts as requested
• Understand Company’s ISO (Environmental & Quality) management systems, Health and Safety standards, policies, goals and initiatives and meet the specific responsibilities within these areas
• Adherence to Duties Checklist and other duties as assigned

Position Requirements:

• Knowledge of food preparation and storage, sanitation requirements and commercial kitchen equipment
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to interact with many types of personalities in a positive and productive way
• Majority of shift will be spent on feet in a fast-paced environment and in close proximity to other people
• Ability to lift 25 pounds frequently and up to 50 pounds occasionally
• Frequent bending, twisting, lifting, and squatting

Knowledge and Experience:

Education: High School Diploma or equivalent

Experience: Culinary training/experience (1 year minimum)

Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status and all other status protected by law.