Lead Cook - Univ. of Virginia-Observatory

Job DescriptionUVA Dine is looking for dedicated and experienced Lead Cooks to join our team at the University of Virginia's Observatory Hill Dining Hall. We are hiring for two full-time positions: one for a late-night shift and one for a daytime shift. The late-night position will work until 11:30 PM.As a Lead Cook, you will be a key player in our kitchen, responsible for overseeing a specific area or shift. This role requires strong culinary skills, a passion for food, and the ability to lead and mentor a team. You will ensure the quality and consistency of all meals, maintain a clean and efficient workspace, and support the overall success of the kitchen. Hourly Ray Rate: $19-23 Aramark Benefits for Full-Time EmployeesAramark is committed to the well-being and growth of our employees. As a full-time team member, you may be eligible for a comprehensive benefits package, including:Medical, Dental, and Vision Coverage: Comprehensive healthcare plans to support your health needs.Retirement Savings Plan: A 401(k) plan to help you save for your future.Paid Time Off: Paid vacation, sick leave, and holidays.Tuition Assistance: Access to the Aramark Frontline Education Program, which provides tuition coverage for eligible employees.Employee Assistance Program (EAP): A confidential service offering support for personal and work-related challenges.Life and Disability Insurance: Financial protection for you and your family.Career Growth Opportunities: Aramark is dedicated to internal promotions and career development. We look forward to reviewing your application and potentially welcoming you to the Observatory Hill team!Job ResponsibilitiesSchedules and assigns daily work activities to staff and supervises the completion of tasks.Trains and guides staff on job duties, standard food safety and sanitation procedures, cooking methods, etc.Cooks and prepares food following production guidelines and standardized recipesSets up workstation with all needed ingredients and equipmentPrepares ingredients by measuring, weighing, mixing, chopping, trimming, and peeling food itemsSafely uses all food utensils including knivesOperates equipment such as ovens, stoves, slicers, mixers, etc.Bakes, roasts, broils, steams, and uses a variety of cooking methods on meats, vegetables, and other foodsArranges, garnishes, and portions food following established guidelinesProperly stores food by following food safety policies and proceduresCleans and sanitizes work areas, equipment, and utensilsMaintains excellent customer service with a positive attitude towards guests, customers, clients, co-workers, etc.Follows Aramark safety policies and procedures including food safety and sanitationEnsures security of company assetsProduces and maintains work schedules and may prepare production records. At Aramark, developing new skills and doing what it takes to get the job done make a positive impact for our employees and for our customers. In order to meet our commitments, job duties may change or new ones may be assigned without formal notice.QualificationsPrevious supervisor experience in a related role preferredExperience as a cook or related role requiredAbility to work independently with limited supervision requiredProven knowledge of the basic principles of food preparation, various cooking methods, and food safety regulations such as proper food handling, sanitation, and storageFood safety certification requiredDemonstrates basic math and counting skillsDemonstrates effective interpersonal and communication skills, both written and verbal This role may have physical demands including, but not limited to, lifting, bending, pushing, pulling and/or extended walking and standing. This role may also require uniforms and/or usage of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).EducationAbout AramarkOur MissionRooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet.At Aramark, we believe that every employee should enjoy equal employment opportunity and be free to participate in all aspects of the company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, military status, protected veteran status or other characteristics protected by applicable law. About AramarkThe people of Aramark proudly serve millions of guests every day through food and facilities in 15 countries around the world. Rooted in service and united by our purpose, we strive to do great things for each other, our partners, our communities, and our planet. We believe a career should develop your talents, fuel your passions, and empower your professional growth. So, no matter what you're pursuing - a new challenge, a sense of belonging, or just a great place to work - our focus is helping you reach your full potential. Learn more about working here at connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter.

Created: 2025-09-26