Lead Cook

Who WE are: Our mission is to be Waukegan's top gaming and entertainment hub, renowned for our exceptional hospitality and guest experience. We prioritize our team's development and well-being, offering career advancement opportunities, and a culture of enjoyment and fulfillment in the workplace. With a focus on growth and excellence, we're on the lookout for adaptable, coachable individuals who share our passion for hospitality. Join us for a journey of growth and success in Lake County’s fastest-growing industry. Who WE are looking for: We are seeking a skilled and disciplined Lead Cook for L’Américain who brings a strong foundation in traditional American cuisine and a deep passion for hospitality. The ideal candidate is a detail-oriented, organized professional capable of executing precise techniques under pressure while maintaining a clean and composed work environment. This individual should possess a thorough understanding of ingredients, presentation, and timing, as well as a collaborative mindset and respect for kitchen hierarchy. We are looking for someone who leads by example demonstrating professionalism, teamwork, and a consistently positive attitude while guiding and supporting the kitchen team in all aspects of daily prep and service. Strong communication, organizational, and basic mathematical skills are essential, as is the ability to read and follow recipes, production lists, and necessary kitchen documentation. At American Place Casino, we value individuals who take pride in their work, strive for excellence, and contribute to delivering a consistently elevated dining experience for our guests. Job titles similar to this role include:

• Line Lead
• Station Lead
• Prep Lead
• Head Cook

What is expected of YOU:
In addition to participating in prep and service, the Lead Cook oversees and supports all kitchen stations, manages closing shift responsibilities, and ensures all required paperwork and checklists are completed. You will be responsible for compiling prep and production lists, monitoring inventory, and ensuring food items are prepared and stored according to rotation and safety standards. Training and retraining of kitchen staff is a key duty, as is clear communication across shifts and with fellow team members, cooks, and leadership. Maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient workspace is mandatory, and the Lead Cook is expected to report all issues, incidents, or discrepancies to supervisors promptly. This position also involves assisting with special projects and events, participating in safety meetings, and keeping accurate records of daily operations and team performance. The Lead Cook plays a critical role in upholding kitchen standards and ensuring the smooth, efficient operation of the culinary team at L’Américain. Experience YOU will need:

• High School Diploma or GED
• Minimum five (5) to seven (7) years’ experience working in high-volume line cooking or production cooking in a full-service dining establishment or food service establishment, with at least two (2) years’ experience in supervisory capacity preferred.
• Possesses the ability to read recipes, production lists and any other necessary collateral paperwork, such as diagrams and logs, to be able to perform necessary duties.
• Must have good basic mathematical, organizational and communication skills
• Bilingual is a plus

Physical Requirements:

• Lift up to 25 - 30 lbs
• Stand for long periods
• Navigate crowded spaces
• Flexibility in bending and reaching
• Adaptability to casino conditions, including:
  • Bright lights
  • Noise

Certificates, Licenses, Registrations:

• Able to obtain/maintain necessary licenses and/or certifications as required by local gaming regulations.
• Able to obtain/maintain Food Handlers Serv Safe certifications as required by the Lake County Health Department regulations.

Benefits/Perks:

• Medical, Dental, & Vision
• Voluntary Life, AD&D, &
• Disability Insurance
• Volunteer Time Off,
• Ventra Program
• 401K + Employer Match
• Paid Time Off
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Food and Beverage Family Meal