Cook | Kalamazoo Country Club

Line CookKalamazoo Country Club – Culinary TeamPosition Overview:As a Line Cook at Kalamazoo Country Club, you will play a vital role in preparing high-quality dishes while maintaining consistency, efficiency, and attention to detail. Working under the guidance of experienced chefs, you will gain hands-on experience with ingredients, equipment, cooking methods, and kitchen procedures while contributing to the overall success of the culinary team. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about food, eager to learn, and ready to grow in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.Key Responsibilities:Food Preparation & CookingAssist in preparing, cooking, and plating menu items according to club standards. Follow recipes, portion controls, and plating guidelines to ensure consistency and quality. Operate and maintain kitchen equipment, including grills, fryers, ovens, and sauté stations. Develop an understanding of ingredients and their proper handling, storage, and use. Learn and apply various cooking methods such as grilling, roasting, sautéing, and frying. Assist with butchery, sauce preparation, and other fundamental kitchen techniques.Knife Skills & Ingredient HandlingDevelop basic knife skills, including chopping, dicing, julienning, and mincing. Practice safe and efficient knife handling techniques to ensure precision and safety. Properly label, date, and store ingredients to maintain freshness and prevent waste.Kitchen Organization, Safety & SanitationMaintain a clean and organized workstation, adhering to all safety and sanitation guidelines. Safely work with potentially hazardous equipment and cleaning chemicals following proper procedures. Follow all health code standards and food safety regulations (including allergen awareness and safe food handling). Comply with repetitive motion tasks, including chopping, stirring, and plating, while maintaining focus and consistency. Assist with dishwashing, sweeping, mopping, and overall kitchen cleanliness as needed.Physical Demands & Work EnvironmentAble to stand for extended periods (up to 8+ hours) in a fast-paced environment. Able to stoop, bend, and lift up to 40 lbs occasionally. Work in hot and high-energy environments, including near open flames and fryers.Teamwork & CommunicationWork closely with chefs, line cooks, and servers to ensure smooth and efficient service. Take direction and feedback from kitchen leadership to improve skills and performance. Communicate any ingredient shortages or equipment issues to the appropriate personnel.Learning & Career DevelopmentGain hands-on experience in kitchen operations, ingredient knowledge, and cooking techniques. Learn and practice time management, organization, and efficiency in a professional kitchen. Explore opportunities for growth and advancement within the culinary team.Qualifications & Requirements:Basic knife skills and understanding of cooking methods, ingredients, and equipment. Previous kitchen experience is preferred, but not required. Strong work ethic, attention to detail, and willingness to learn. Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen with changing priorities. Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed. Ability to safely handle sharp objects, hot surfaces, and hazardous cleaning chemicals. Commitment to safety, sanitation, and maintaining a clean workspace.What We Offer:Comprehensive training to develop professional culinary skills. Opportunities for growth and advancement within the kitchen team. A supportive and team-oriented work environment at one of Kalamazoo's premier dining establishments. Competitive pay, meal benefits, and access to club amenities.