Cook - Univ. of Virginia-Observatory

Job Description

UVA Dine is seeking dedicated and skilled Cooks to prepare high-quality food for students, faculty, and guests at our Observatory Hill location on the University of Virginia grounds. The Cook will be responsible for preparing a variety of food items according to standardized recipes, ensuring food safety and sanitation guidelines are met, and providing excellent customer service.

• Location: University of Virginia - Observatory Hill - 525 McComrick Rd, Charlottesville, VA 22904
• Start Date: August 13, 2025
• Hourly Pay Rate: $17+
• Scheduled Needed: Flexibility desired - Weekends and nightime availability are a plus.

Benefits:

Aramark offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Retirement plan
• Paid time off

Job Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook food items according to standardized recipes and production schedules, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Set up workstations with necessary ingredients and equipment.
• Measure, cut, chop, and prepare ingredients according to recipe specifications.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently, including ovens, stoves, grills, fryers, and other tools.
• Cook food items using various cooking methods, such as baking, grilling, frying, sautéing, and steaming.
• Ensure food is cooked to the correct temperature and meets quality standards.
• Plate and present food items in an attractive and appetizing manner.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of work areas, including equipment, utensils, and surfaces.
• Follow all food safety and sanitation procedures, including proper handling, storage, and labeling of food.
• Assist with inventory management, including checking stock levels and notifying supervisors of needed items.
• Work collaboratively with other kitchen staff to ensure smooth and efficient service.
• Provide friendly and efficient customer service, addressing student and guest inquiries and requests.
• Adhere to all university and dining services policies and procedures.

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.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Minimum of 1-2 years of experience in a food service or restaurant setting.
• Ability to read, write, and understand instructions and recipes.
• Ability to perform basic math calculations.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Good communication and customer service skills.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25-50 pounds.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• ServSafe certification is a plus.

Additional Skills and Abilities:

• Positive attitude and strong work ethic.
• Ability to take direction and follow instructions.
• Attention to detail and cleanliness.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Reliability and punctuality.
• Passion for food preparation and culinary arts.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25-50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a kitchen environment, which may be hot and noisy.
• Ability to bend, stoop, and reach as needed.

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).

Education

About Aramark

Our Mission

Rooted 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 Aramark

The 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 or connect with us on Facebook , Instagram and Twitter .