Catering Production Cook - Univ. of Virginia-Catering

Job Description

The Virginia Catering Company, operated by UVA Dine, is seeking a skilled and dedicated Catering Production Cook to join our culinary team. This role is crucial for the efficient and high-quality preparation of food for various catering events across the University of Virginia grounds. The Catering Production Cook will be responsible for preparing a wide range of menu items, adhering to strict food safety standards, and contributing to a dynamic and fast-paced kitchen environment.

Benefits:

Aramark offers a comprehensive benefits package to eligible employees, which may include:

• Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance
• 401(k) Retirement Plan (with potential company match based on eligibility)
• Paid Time Off (PTO) / Vacation and Sick Leave accruals
• Paid Holidays (for eligible positions)
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Life and Disability Insurance
• Opportunities for career growth and development

Job Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook a variety of food items according to standardized recipes, production sheets, and catering event specifications.
• Execute all steps of food preparation, including washing, chopping, slicing, mixing, and cooking.
• Ensure all food is prepared to the highest standards of taste, quality, and presentation.
• Operate and maintain all kitchen equipment safely and efficiently (e.g., ovens, stoves, grills, mixers, slicers).
• Adhere strictly to all food safety and sanitation guidelines, including HACCP principles, proper temperature control, and cross-contamination prevention.
• Monitor food production to minimize waste and control costs without compromising quality.
• Assist with inventory management, including receiving, storing, and rotating food supplies.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation, kitchen area, and storage facilities.
• Collaborate effectively with other culinary team members, catering staff, and management to ensure smooth production and successful event execution.
• Participate in daily production meetings to review menus, timelines, and special instructions for events.
• Ensure timely completion of all assigned tasks to meet event deadlines.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent. Culinary degree or certification preferred.
• Minimum of 2-3 years of experience as a Cook in a high-volume kitchen, catering, or banquet setting.
• Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, cooking methods, and various cuisines.
• Proficiency in knife skills and general kitchen equipment operation.
• Solid understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations (HACCP).
• Ability to read and follow standardized recipes accurately.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• ServSafe certification required or ability to obtain within a specified timeframe.

Physical Demands:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (8+ hours).
• Ability to lift, push, pull, and carry up to 50 pounds frequently.
• Ability to work in a kitchen environment, which may include exposure to hot, cold, and wet conditions.
• Manual dexterity for precise food preparation tasks.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and climb as needed.

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 .