Full Time - Lead Cook, Catering

Mendocino Railway is the owner/operator of freight and passenger railroads including the California Western Railroad (CWR) / Skunk Trainand theRiver Fox TrainThe world-famous Skunk Train is a standard gauge passenger railroad that was founded in 1885, and operates 40 miles between Fort Bragg and Willits, in Mendocino County, California.
The Skunk Trainis looking for an experienced and motivated Lead Cook to oversee kitchen operations in a fast-paced hospitality environment supporting railway events and guest dining experiences. This role will lead food production and daily kitchen operations ensuring cleanliness and safety standards at all times.
This is a full-time position and includes working evenings, weekends, and holidays.
ROLE AND RESPONSIBILITIES (including but not limited to)
Work closely with Food & Beverage Manager and kitchen staff to ensure efficient operations, excellent guest experiences, and consistent food quality standards.
Lead daily food production and service operations.
Coordinate prep schedules, inventory management, and replenishment needs with kitchen staff.
Oversee kitchen opening and closing procedures, ensuring all operational and sanitation checklists are completed.
Prepare and execute high-quality food service in a timely and professional manner.
Supervise and support kitchen staff, providing direction, training, and accountability.
Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
Monitor inventory levels and communicate purchasing and supply needs to management.
Maintain cleanliness, organization, and operational efficiency in all kitchen and storage areas.
Assist with menu execution, specials, and operational improvements.
Provide coverage during staffing shortages or employee call-offs as needed.
Support company culture and guest service standards while maintaining a positive and professional work environment.
Knows, implements, and follows all applicable health and safety standard laws, statues, rules, and company policies
Communicate effectively with guests, crew members and supervisors to ensure seamless service.
Perform other duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EDUCATION REQUIREMENTS

• 3-5 years' experience running a commercial kitchen.
• Valid Food Handler Card required.
• Experience with high-volume food preparation, catering, or hospitality kitchen operations.
• Experience in hospitality, tourism, event catering, or outdoor food service environments.
• Previous leadership or supervisory kitchen experience a plus.
• Strong organizational, multitasking, and time-management skills.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure while maintaining attention to detail.
• Strong knowledge of food handling, sanitation, and kitchen safety standards.
• ServSafe Certification or equivalent food safety certification.
• Pre-employment drug screen and criminal background check required prior to hiring.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in the English language. Bilingual Spanish a plus.
• Ability to effectively communicate and work with employees, contractors, regulatory representatives, public officials, and members of the public.
• Strong organizational skills with excellent attention to detail.
• Must be reliable, punctual, and professional in appearance and demeanor.
• Must be available to work weekends, evenings, and holidays.

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS

Ability to stand for extended periods and walk on uneven surfaces.
Must be able to lift up to 50lbs. safely.
Ability to bend, reach, stoop, push, pull.
Ability to work in a commercial kitchen environment with exposure to cold, heat, sharp equipment, and fast-paced service conditions.
Comfortable working in both indoor and outdoor environments and around moving rail equipment (with provided safety training).
Must be able to perform duties safely while on the tracks and a moving train.

BENEFITS & ADDITIONAL NOTES

~ Employment is full-time and includes medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401(k) retirement, paid holidays, paid sick leave, and paid time off.

EEO Statement
Mendocino Railway is an equal opportunity employer and provides equal employment opportunities to all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disabled status or any other protected class.