Cook I

Cook

Reports to: Sous Chef/Executive Chef

Department: Kitchen

The Forester Hotel is the natural selection for modern comfort and evolutionary service. Founded on the motto of "Love of Science and Nature", the city of Lake Forest has always been at the crossroads of preservation and progress with its open lands backing up to office parks and the cobblestone streets of historic Market Square leading to Starbucks and Williams Sonoma. We're blazing new trails with boutique offerings including an upscale bistro + bar and over 4,500 square feet of flexible event space.

Benefits

• Competitive compensation package
• Competitive Paid Time Off policy
• Full benefits package, including 401K with matching and paid time off from Day 1
• Growth company focused on expansion through strategic acquisition and development
• Hotel discounts at locations worldwide

Job Description

At The Oaken bar & Bistro located in The Forester Hotel, where refined hospitality meets elevated culinary experiences, the Cook plays a vital role in delivering exceptional cuisine that aligns with our brand's luxury standards. This position is responsible for executing high-quality food preparation, presentation, and consistency in alignment with culinary protocols and guest expectations. The ideal candidate demonstrates a passion for food, attention to detail, and a collaborative spirit while maintaining the highest levels of cleanliness, efficiency, and professionalism in the kitchen.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities The following duties are essential to the role (other duties may be assigned):

• Ensure the highest standards of food safety and kitchen hygiene, including proper handling, rotation (FIFO), dating, labeling, and storage of all food items in compliance with local health regulations and HACCP guidelines.
• Accurately and efficiently prepare menu items in accordance with standard recipes, presentation specifications, and portion controls, ensuring consistent quality and guest satisfaction.
• Operate and maintain all kitchen equipment in a safe and effective manner; report malfunctions or safety concerns immediately to kitchen leadership.
• Support the daily culinary operations for the hotel's signature restaurant and assist with banquet and event food production as required.
• Maintain an organized and sanitized workstation throughout the shift and participate in end-of-day cleaning and breakdown procedures.
• Assist with receiving, inspecting, and storing food deliveries, ensuring accuracy and adherence to food safety standards.
• Exhibit strong mise en place discipline to ensure the station is fully prepared for each service period.
• Maintain clear communication and cooperation with fellow team members, front-of-house staff, and supervisors to ensure seamless service.
• Demonstrate flexibility by assisting in various kitchen stations as needed based on business demand.
• Uphold a professional, team-oriented attitude, aligning with the hotel's brand values and standards of luxury hospitality.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 90% of the workday).
• Frequent bending, reaching, pushing, pulling, and twisting at the waist required.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs and perform repetitive tasks involving grasping, handling, and operating standard kitchen tools and equipment.
• Ability to use standard kitchen technology (e.g., printers, tablets, kitchen display systems).

Qualifications To perform this job successfully, the individual must be able to meet the following requirements, with reasonable accommodations available for individuals with disabilities:

• High school diploma or equivalent (GED) required.
• Minimum of 2 years of culinary experience in a full-service or fine dining kitchen preferred.
• Strong understanding of fundamental cooking techniques including soups, sauces, stocks, and butchery.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to take direction and work collaboratively.
• ServSafe or equivalent food handling certification required; BASSET certification preferred.
• Demonstrated ability to multitask, prioritize, and maintain composure in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Strong organizational skills with a commitment to maintaining clean, efficient workstations.
• Willingness to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and overtime as business demands.