Cafeteria Cook

Job Details Job Location: theWit Hotel - Chicago, IL 60601 Salary Range: $21.00 - $21.00 HourlyAt theWit Chicago, you'll become part of a dynamic culinary team that supports a variety of unique dining experiences throughout the hotel. From restaurant service and rooftop events to banquets, catering, and in-room dining, you'll have the opportunity to expand your culinary skills while contributing to exceptional guest experiences in one of Chicago's premier lifestyle hotels. Position Summary The Cafeteria / Banquet Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking high-quality food for employee cafeteria service, banquets, events, and other food and beverage operations at TheWit Chicago. This position ensures food is prepared according to established recipes, quality standards, presentation guidelines, and food safety requirements. We are looking for talented line cooks who are passionate about working with quality local ingredients, taking pride in every plate, and contributing to a clean, team-focused kitchen. This is a great opportunity for someone who wants to keep growing in their culinary career while working in a fun, fast-paced environment. We offer PTO, Hilton discounts, and the chance to be part of a team that cares about great food and doing things the right way. If that sounds like you, we’d like to speak with you. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Prepare, cook, and present food items for employee cafeteria service, banquets, meetings, events, and other assigned outlets. Follow standardized recipes, portion controls, preparation methods, and presentation standards. Assist with preparation of hot and cold food items, including meats, seafood, poultry, vegetables, starches, sauces, soups, and other menu items. Set up and maintain food stations and buffet lines for cafeteria and banquet service. Prepare food in quantities appropriate for scheduled business levels and events. Assist with banquet production and ensure food is prepared and ready according to event timelines. Maintain proper food temperatures and follow all food safety and sanitation procedures. Properly label, date, store, rotate, and handle food products according to established standards. Monitor food quality and notify the Chef or Sous Chef of any quality, inventory, or production concerns. Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary workstation throughout the shift. Operate and clean kitchen equipment safely and properly. Minimize food waste through proper preparation, portioning, storage, and product rotation. Assist with receiving, storing, and organizing food deliveries as assigned. Communicate effectively with culinary and banquet team members to ensure timely service. Follow all hotel policies, procedures, and applicable health and safety regulations. Assist with opening, closing, and general kitchen duties as needed. Perform other duties as assigned by management. Qualifications Previous cooking experience in a hotel, restaurant, banquet, cafeteria, or institutional food-service environment preferred. Knowledge of basic cooking techniques, food preparation, and kitchen equipment. Ability to follow recipes, instructions, and portion specifications. Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple priorities. Ability to work collaboratively as part of a culinary team. Strong attention to cleanliness, food quality, and detail. Ability to stand for extended periods and perform the physical requirements of the position. Food Handler or ServSafe certification preferred or required as applicable by local regulations. Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, early mornings, evenings, and banquet/event shifts as business needs require. Physical Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull food products, equipment, and supplies. Ability to work in a hot, humid, and fast-paced kitchen environment. Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and perform repetitive movements. Ability to safely handle knives, kitchen equipment, hot surfaces, and food products. Schedule Requirements Flexible availability, including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events. Willingness to work overtime and support different culinary outlets based on operational needs. Compensation and Benefits $21.00 per hour We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees. Our offerings include: Medical Plans: Choice of three plans to meet your healthcare needs. Dental Plans: Two options for dental coverage. Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine eye care and eyewear. Paid Time Off (PTO): To support work-life balance. Accident/Hospital Indemnity/Critical Illness plans (new for 2026). 401(k) Retirement Plan: Plan for your future with employer contributions. Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Pre-tax savings for healthcare and dependent care expenses. Life and AD&D Insurance: Employer-provided coverage with additional voluntary options. Short-Term Disability (STD): Employer-provided coverage to support you during temporary disability. Voluntary Long-Term Disability (LTD): Additional protection for extended disability. Commuter Benefits: Save on transit and parking expenses. Pet Insurance: Options to support your furry family members. Hilton travel discounts and employee room rates worldwide Career growth and training opportunities Access to wellness programs and employee appreciation events Please note that eligibility for certain benefits may vary depending on your employment status. Detailed information, including plan summaries and enrollment instructions, will be provided during onboarding or upon request. This summary complies with applicable state laws and is subject to change based on legislative updates or company policies. E-Verify Participation theWit Hotel participates in the U.S. Department of Homeland Security E-Verify program to confirm the employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. Equal Employment Opportunity theWit Hotel and ROOF on theWit are proud to be Equal Opportunity Employers. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other protected characteristic under applicable law. #J-18808-Ljbffr