Third Cook

Third Cook Position

Amherst College invites applications for the Third Cook position. The Third Cook is a full-time, year-round position. The expected salary range for this job opportunity is: $21.24-21.75 per hour.

The Third Cook plays an essential role in delivering high-quality culinary production that supports student life and enhances the campus dining experience. This position is responsible for preparing and producing menu components in accordance with Dining Services standards for quality, consistency, presentation, and food safety. Working collaboratively with culinary and service team members, the Third Cook helps ensure that production levels meet operational demands while exceeding customer expectations.

This role requires proficiency in foundational culinary techniques, ingredient preparation, and contemporary food trends, along with a strong understanding of food history and evolving dining preferences. The Third Cook may engage directly with guests through display or demonstration cooking and is expected to maintain a professional, approachable, and service-oriented presence at all times.

The schedule varies in response to operational needs and flexibility is required, as this position may support additional production shifts, assist in other kitchen areas, or contribute to campus-wide events. As an essential services role, the Third Cook may be required to report to work or remain on duty during College closures to ensure continuity of dining operations.

All Dining Services employees are responsible for understanding and implementing established food safety procedures and allergen prevention protocols. Team members must actively support and respond appropriately to individuals with food allergies to ensure a safe dining experience for all community members.

Employees are expected to apply the knowledge and procedures covered in mandatory training sessions in the course of their daily duties. Maintaining these safety standards is essential to protect the health and well-being of our students, guests, and colleagues. Failure to adhere to required food safety and allergen control practices may result in disciplinary action, up to and including termination of employment.

Summary of Duties and Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Production

• Prepare assigned menu itemsboth hot and coldin accordance with established Dining Services standards for quality, consistency, presentation, and portion control.
• Maintain strict adherence to health, safety, and sanitation standards, including compliance with local health department regulations and internal food safety protocols.
• Execute culinary duties safely, efficiently, and to the highest professional standards while maintaining a clean and organized workstation.
• Communicate operational needs, product shortages, and production challenges proactively and effectively to supervisors and team members to ensure seamless service.

Menu Development & Execution

• Support the creation, preparation, and service of menus in collaboration with culinary leadership.
• Assist with product and process refinement to improve consistency, efficiency, and quality.
• Participate in new product research, testing, and implementation of seasonal or trend-forward menu offerings.
• Identify and help resolve inconsistencies in recipes and production methods to maintain standardized outcomes across service periods.

Inventory & Product Stewardship

• Monitor and maintain product levels in all storage areas during production, ensuring proper organization and accessibility.
• Inspect ingredients for quality and freshness, communicating concerns or supply needs through appropriate supervisory channels.
• Maintain accurate labeling, dating, and rotation of products to uphold food safety standards and support first-in, first-out (FIFO) practices.
• Demonstrate responsible stewardship of resources by minimizing waste, reducing product loss, and promoting sustainability in daily operations.

Communication & Administrative Responsibilities

• Regularly monitor amherst.edu email, departmental communications, message boards, and The Daily -Mammoth to remain informed of College-wide updates, operational changes, meetings, and events.
• Maintain clear and professional communication with supervisors and colleagues to support coordination across Dining Services operations.
• Utilize College systems, including Workday, as required for timekeeping, scheduling, and personal record management in accordance with institutional policies.

Qualifications

Required:

• High School Diploma or equivalent
• 3-5 years of related experience
• ServSafe Certification required, or the ability to obtain certification within three months of employment.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to communicate effectively in a team-oriented environment.
• Demonstrated time management skills and the ability to multitask efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen setting.
• Ability to taste and work with a wide variety of ingredients and flavor profiles.
• Ability to accurately read, interpret, and execute recipes, including scaling quantities up or down as operational needs require.
• Strong attention to detail with a commitment to quality, consistency, and pride in workmanship.
• Schedule flexibility, including the ability to support large campus events and adjust hours based on operational needs.
• Successful completion of required background and reference checks
• Successful completion of pre-employment physical and lift test

Preferred:

• Five or more years of experience in collegiate or institutional foodservice production.
• Experience working in high-volume dining environments with standardized recipes and production systems.
• Familiarity with food safety management systems, HACCP principles, and institutional compliance standards.
• Demonstrated ability to contribute to menu development, product testing, and process improvement initiatives.