Culinary Externship - Spring 2027

Culinary Externship

This Culinary Externship Program for the Spring 2027 Semester (January to April) provides students with hands-on experience in a professional kitchen environment through a rotational schedule. It is designed to enhance their culinary skills, knowledge of food preparation, and understanding of kitchen operations. The program aims to prepare students for a successful career in the culinary arts by immersing them in all aspects of kitchen production while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and sanitation.

Turning Stone Resort Casino is New York State's most awarded four-season resort destination. It is home to two Forbes-rated, four-star fine-dining restaurants and more than 12 additional dining options, from BBQ or Italian to Sushi and other regional favorites. As a culinary extern, you will have the opportunity to experience four of our top venues.

Alumni from The Culinary Institute of America operate many outlets you will experience. In addition, our Enterprise Executive Chef Ron Ross is a 1979 graduate. Here at Turning Stone Casino Resort, we treat your experience as an extension of your education. We encourage students to express their future interests with our chefs in order to cater learning to their needs, from molecular techniques, modified atmosphere packaging, high volume, and artisan pasta making.

An example of your hands-on involvement includes:

• Daily collaboration of recipe and menu development
• The process of dry-aging beef
• Garde Mange in a fine dining atmosphere
• The art of preparing and cooking fish, shellfish and crustaceans
• Handcrafting and extruding pasta
• The fundamentals of braising small and large cuts of beef
• The method of Sous Vide cooking
• Preparing and cooking vegetables and legumes
• Making, stretching, and forming artisan pizza dough
• Food plating and presentation management
• High-end wedding and special event catering
• Pan-searing and grilling various cuts of meat
• Commissary cook and chill program

Qualifications:

• Must be currently enrolled in a culinary program at an accredited college.
• Must demonstrate the ability to read and interpret schedules, menus, and related materials.
• Must possess basic mathematical skills for tasks such as measuring ingredients.
• Must be capable of operating kitchen equipment, including but not limited to steamers, fryers, and ovens.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Proficiency in speaking and understanding English is required for brief interactions with guests and co-workers.
• Must possess strong written communication skills, including the ability to complete forms and engage in standard communication.
• Must be available to work a flexible schedule, including nights, holidays, and weekends.
• Must have the ability to organize and prioritize multiple tasks effectively.
• Ability to perform efficiently in a fast-paced environment is essential.
• Must be able to stand for extended periods.
• The position requires frequent physical activity, including bending, pushing, pulling, kneeling, standing, walking, grasping, manual dexterity, overhead reaching, and twisting.

Choosing Turning Stone for your externships, you will have the opportunity to work with some of the region's best chefs:

• TS Steakhouse - Chef Ray Wells, CIA Graduate 2008
• Pino Bianco Chef Megan Reyes, Suny Cobleskill Graduate 2012
• Wild Flowers Chef Joe Kolo, CIA Graduate 2002 (Bachelors 2012)
• Upstate Tavern Chef Yolanda CIA Graduate 2013

What you'll Gain:

• Strong culinary skills, including food preparation, cooking techniques, and presentation.
• Comprehensive understanding of food safety, sanitation, and product handling.
• An ability to work efficiently in a high-demand kitchen setting.
• Enhanced knowledge of cost control and inventory management.
• Experience demonstrating professionalism and teamwork in a kitchen environment.

Who We Are:

We are Turning Stone Enterprises, a dynamic organization with a diverse range of business operations. Among our prominent offerings is the Turning Stone Resort Casino, which has received the prestigious Best of New York Gaming Resort award for an impressive six consecutive years. Complementing this flagship property, we operate satellite casinos like YBR Casino & Sports Book, Point Place Casino, and The Lake House at Sylvan Beach. Beyond gaming and hospitality, our portfolio also includes convenience stores, three 18 hole PGA-level golf courses, and other unique ventures.

Why You Will Appreciate Us:

At Turning Stone Enterprises, we prioritize the well-being and professional growth of our team members by offering an extensive array of benefits. From comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans to a 401(k) and life insurance, we ensure your health and financial security. Our work-life balance support includes paid time off, paid holidays, and team member assistance programs. We're also committed to wellness, with various programs and an upcoming 5,000-square-foot onsite medical center.

With over 4,500 team members across Central New York, we focus on delivering exceptional experiences for both our guests and staff. Our resources include training programs, complimentary shuttles, and career development initiatives, helping you reach your professional goals. Whether you're starting your career or advancing it, join us for a rewarding journey of growth and success at Turning Stone Enterprises. We look forward to welcoming you to our team!