On-Call Event Cook

On-Call Event Cook

Urban Organics 

271 Lafayette Circle, Lafayette, CA

On-Call • Hourly ($26-30)

Job Details

Urban Organics is a Bay Area culinary team known for thoughtful, seasonal food and a supportive, high-standard kitchen culture. We are looking for an experienced, versatile cook with interest in both prep in our production kitchen as well as execution of on-site events, depending on need. Experience in on-site catering as well as volume production is greatly appreciated. We are a diverse team of culinary professionals who value collaboration and cooperation in order to carry out complex, sometimes high-volume events for our clients. We’re looking for someone who takes pride in their work while treating others with respect and dignity.

Job Title: On-Call Event Cook

Location: Hybrid (Lafayette Kitchen & On-Site Events) Bay Area

Employment Type: On-Call 

Compensation: Hourly (Rate $26-30, based on experience) 

Schedule: Flexibility to work a schedule that varies based on events; typical shifts are 6-8 hours.

Hiring Urgency: Ongoing hiring

Role Summary

This position is a mix of hands-on cooking, event execution, and kitchen organization. You will work mostly under direction but must also possess the ability to work independently when required.

Key Benefits & Perks

• Staff Meals (when available)
• Tips (when available)
• Great team culture (busy, supportive, and genuinely fun)

What You'll Do

Core Responsibilities:

• Food Prep: Handle knife work, batching, and portioning.
• Cooking: Manage hot line and finishing during service.
• Plating & Packaging: Ensure high standards for food presentation.
• Event Operations: BOH event setup and breakdown.
• Logistics: Loading and unloading equipment for on-site events.
• Kitchen Systems: Maintain organization, cleanliness, and strict inventory habits (labeling/FIFO).

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: 3+ years in high-volume kitchens, with a preference for catering backgrounds.
• Certification: Valid Food Handler certificate required (ServSafe Manager is a plus).
• Physical: Ability to lift and carry 50+ lbs regularly.
• Schedule: Flexibility to work a schedule that varies based on events; typical shifts are 6-8 hours.

Required Skills

• Time Management & Efficiency: Ability to prioritize production needs and maintain pacing during high-volume service.
• Attention to Detail & Organizational Skills: Ensuring precision in plating, portioning, and maintaining clean, labeled kitchen systems.
• Teamwork & Collaboration: Working cooperatively with a diverse culinary team to execute complex events.
• Problem Solving & Adaptability: Ability to troubleshoot in real-time and adjust to changing event needs or production priorities.
• Communication: Maintaining clear, calm, and professional interactions in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of Food Safety Regulations: Strict adherence to health standards for preparation, storage, cooling, and reheating.

Ready to Apply? If you love the energy of live events and want to work with a kind, motivated team that cares about doing things the right way, please submit your resume.