Cook

Cook Position

Meriwether Godsey is seeking a full-time cook responsible for the preparation, cooking, and presentation of daily meals and special events at an independent school in Alexandria, Virginia, which educates students from ages 3 through grade 12.

This position has a tentative start date of early-mid August 2026.

Full-time Monday-Friday, 6:30am-3pm and weekends as needed for catering and special events.

$20.00-$22.00 per hour (based on experience).

What the Cook Will Do:

• Participate in the preparation, cooking, and portioning of large quantities of meat, fish, fowl, vegetables, cereals, soups, sauces, fruits, bread, desserts, and other food items.
• Prepare items in batches as close to serving time as possible to ensure quality and limit over-production, using good judgment in timing to ensure service without interruption.
• Follow recipes and recommend changes in recipes and cooking methods to improve products and ensure the highest quality food preparation and presentation.
• Cook, maintain, and store all foods at/to required temperatures.
• Take and record temperatures, following all required food handling and sanitation standards to ensure food safety.
• Maintain accurate records of production amounts, attendance & left-over amounts to assist in efficient forecasting information.
• Assist with the organization and sanitation of coolers, freezers, and storerooms: all items covered, labeled, and dated.
• Attend production meetings daily, offering input concerning leftover utilization, efficiency, product quality, etc.
• Perform all duties in accordance with food safety and sanitation best practices.
• Other duties, as assigned.

What the Cook Will Need:

• High School diploma or equivalent.
• Prior experience as a cook is desired, production kitchen or contract dining experience (2-4 prior experience preferred).
• ServSafe Certification or ability to obtain within 6 months of employment.
• Experience with high-volume food service operations, preferably in school environments.
• Ability to measure products and convert units of measure.
• High levels of professionalism, strong communication, organizational, customer service, and problem-solving skills.
• Flexibility: ability to switch between locations and job duties.
• Must be able to lift 50lbs.
• Growing knowledge of sustainable practices.
• Must be able to pass the employment background process.

What the Cook Will Get:

• Competitive Pay, Uniforms, Meals, Training and Mentorship, and Benefits (Health, Vision, Dental, etc.)

Meriwether Godsey offers significant opportunities for growth and career advancement. The work environment is fast-paced, team-oriented, and high-energy. You'll be surrounded and supported by people who are passionate about serving others.

Enjoy a people and food-focused environment where you have the opportunity to make a difference every day and advance your career. Help Meriwether Godsey shine and set the standard for hospitality in the Northern Virginia market! Interested in learning more? Visit our About Us Page.

Meriwether Godsey is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to fostering an inclusive, equitable workplace.