Prep Cook/ Event Cook

Event Cook

The Event Cook is responsible for executing consistent, high-quality cooking and plating during on- and offsite events, delivering menu items to spec under tight timelines and varying kitchen setups. Reports to the Onsite Event Chef.

Responsibilities:

Prep & Production Execution:

• Prep ingredients and components in advance of events, including portioning, chopping, and assembling items as directed.
• Cook and finish menu items to spec, ensuring correct seasoning, doneness, and overall quality.
• Reheat and hold food appropriately to support smooth, continuous service during event windows.

Plating & Presentation:

• Plate menu items with speed and consistency while meeting event standards and timing cues.
• Garnish dishes accurately to maintain presentation standards across all portions.

Food Safety & Sanitation:

• Maintain clean, organized workstations and follow sanitation standards throughout prep and service.
• Monitor food temperatures and hot/cold holding practices to ensure safe, compliant service.
• Follow allergen-aware handling practices and dietary restriction requirements when assigned.

Event Operations & Logistics:

• Assist with kitchen/station setup and breakdown, including packing and transport support as needed.
• Support equipment and supply readiness in offsite environments, adapting to changing setups and constraints.

Service Communication & Team Support:

• Communicate proactively with the Onsite Event Chef (and service leads as directed) on timing, counts, and issues impacting service flow.
• Flag low inventory, refires, and replenishment needs in real time to prevent service gaps.
• Collaborate calmly with the culinary team under pressure to meet guest expectations and service timelines.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Experienced in a professional kitchen environment (restaurant, catering, banquet, or similar).
• Confident in foundational cooking methods (roasting, sauting, grilling, blanching, braising) and safe knife handling.
• Able to follow recipes, prep lists, and chef direction accurately at speed.
• Knowledgeable about food safety, sanitation, and temperature control (hot/cold holding).
• Comfortable with physically demanding work, including standing for extended periods and lifting/bending/carrying in hot environments.
• A clear communicator who stays steady and team-oriented during high-pressure service.
• Able to work a flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ideally certified in food safety (e.g., ServSafe Food Handler/Manager or equivalent) and familiar with dietary restrictions/allergen-aware practices.

What Success Looks Like:

• Event food is executed to spec with consistent seasoning, doneness, portioning, and presentation.
• Service stays on time because prep is complete, stations are ready, and refires/replenishment are handled quickly.
• Work areas remain clean and organized throughout the event, including smooth setup and breakdown.
• Food is held and served safely and compliantly, with temperatures monitored and documented as required.
• Communication is proactive and reliable, preventing surprises for the Onsite Event Chef during service.
• The team can rely on you to adapt to offsite constraints and maintain quality in any event kitchen setup.

If you're considering applying, please take a moment to review our Core Values and ask yourself if they genuinely align with how you like to work. They're not just words to us: they're the standard we hire, coach, and hold each other accountable to. If they resonate, we'd love to hear from you.

Onthemarc Events & Catering