Read House Lead Cook

Avocet Hospitality Group; Chattanooga (TN); On-site; USD 22,000 - 33,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Vibrant Environment

Career Growth

Medical, dental, vision plans

Life, disability, accident insurance

Paid time off and holidays

401(k) with employer match

Early wage access via PayActiv

Employee referrals bonus

Avocet discounts for hotels/rests

Employee meals and garage parking

Job summary

Avocet Hospitality Group is hiring a Lead Cook for The Read House and its outlets in Chattanooga. You will support the Chef de Cuisine and SuB Chefs in daily culinary operations across restaurants, bar, and banquets, with responsibilities spanning hot/cold prep and high-volume production.

Requirements include 1–2 years of cooking experience, knife skills, and a commitment to safety. Flexible schedule with potential for growth; hourly rate based on experience.

Qualifications

• One to two years of cooking experience in a similar style establishment.
• Solid professional cooking and knife handling skills, plus ability to operate commercial production equipment.
• Sanitation and food handling knowledge; ServSafe preferred within 90 days.
• Ability to multitask in a high-demand environment and work flexible hours.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift 30–50 pounds.

Responsibilities

• Masterful Preparation: Prepare hot and cold items, grill, fry, sauté, and broil as needed.
• Precision & Artistry: Follow recipes and specs; act as expo when Chef is unavailable.
• Impeccable Standards: Maintain clean stations and proper food safety practices.
• Creative Collaboration: Suggest daily specials and assist banquet operations.
• Team Dedication: Support Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, and Sous Chef.

Skills

Cooking experience

Knife skills

Safety/compliance

Multi-tasking

Tools

Commercial kitchen equipment

Job description

Career Opportunities with Avocet Hospitality Group

Current job opportunities are posted here as they become available.

Our organization is defined by one simple word - passion. Everything is geared to providing you a great guest experience in a unique environment, and being served by our team of professionals in a way that makes you stop and say, "This place is different."

A Blend of Historic Elegance and Culinary Excellence ! Step into the culinary heart of The Read House, where timeless 1920s grandeur meets modern sophistication. We are seeking a self-motivated Lead Cook to help us craft unforgettable dining experiences across our restaurants, bar, and banquet settings. As Lead Cook, you will assist the Chef de Cuisine, Sous Chef, and/ or Executive Chef in leading our culinary operations.Position will work in all outlets of The Read House, Bridgeman's Chophouse, Banquets, and Main Kitchen. Hourly rate based upon experience.

WHAT YOU WILL DO

Masterful Preparation: Prepare hot and cold food items daily, efficiently executing grilling, frying, sautéing, and broiling techniques.Precision & Artistry: Prepare and follow recipes, production lists, and food presentation specifications in a timely, sanitary manner. Work as food expeditor (expo) in place of Chef when needed.Impeccable Standards: Maintain a clean, organized station and walk-in cooler, ensuring exceptional safety and food handling practices.Creative Collaboration: Suggest daily specials to the culinary leadership and assist the Sous Chef with banquet operations.Team Dedication: Perform additional responsibilities as requested by the Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or Sous Chef.

WHAT YOU WILL BRING

Experience: One to two years of cooking experience in a similar style establishment, with the ability to handle high-volume production.Culinary Chops: Solid professional cooking and knife handling skills, plus the ability to safely operate commercial production equipment.Commitment to Quality: Strong attention to detail with a dedication to premier food and beverage presentation.Safety First: Thorough understanding of sanitation and food handling procedures, with a ServSafe certification preferred within 90 days.Adaptability: Multitask effectively in a high-demand environment and perform well under pressure to meet the needs of our guests.Flexibility: Maintain punctual attendance with the ability to work days, evenings, weekends, and holidays as business requires.Physical Stamina: Ability to stand for extended periods, sometimes over 8 hours, and frequently lift or move up to 30 to 50 pounds.

WHAT WE HAVE TO OFFER

• Vibrant Environment: A culture valuing passion, individuality, and fun.
• Career Growth: Opportunities for internal advancement.
• Comprehensive Care: Affordable medical, dental, and vision plans.
• Peace of Mind: Life, disability, accident, and critical illness insurance.
• Personal Support: Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Paid Time Off: Generous PTO and paid holidays.
• Retirement: Traditional & Roth 401(k) with up to 3.5% employer match.
• Flexible Pay: Early access to earned wages via PayActiv.
• Extra Cash: Employee referral bonuses.
• Avocet Discounts: Savings at our hotels and restaurants.
• Daily Perks: Discounted Starbucks, employee meals, and garage parking.

*2025 & 2026 WINNER - Chattanooga's Best of the Best Hospitality Employer!*