Cook II

About the role

This role is responsible for participating in high-volume food production, including planning, preparing, cooking, and presenting menu items according to ISU Dining standardized recipes and procedures. The position ensures timely, high-quality food production across multiple venues while maintaining consistency, nutrition standards, and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment. This role also keeps the kitchen running smoothly by managing inventory, operating commercial kitchen equipment, and maintaining strict food safety and sanitation standards, including labeling, storage, and temperature logs. In addition, the position supports recipe testing, special dietary needs, and menu development while assisting with recordkeeping and inventory processes. It provides leadership by training and directing student and staff employees, assigning tasks, and supporting performance feedback, all while engaging with guests to ensure a positive dining experience and strong customer satisfaction.

Responsibilities

• Participate in high-volume food production, including planning, preparing, cooking, and presenting menu items according to ISU Dining standardized recipes and procedures.
• Ensure timely, high-quality food production across multiple venues while maintaining consistency, nutrition standards, and attention to detail in a fast-paced environment.
• Manage inventory, operate commercial kitchen equipment, and maintain strict food safety and sanitation standards, including labeling, storage, and temperature logs.
• Support recipe testing, special dietary needs, and menu development while assisting with recordkeeping and inventory processes.
• Provide leadership by training and directing student and staff employees, assigning tasks, and supporting performance feedback.
• Engage with guests to ensure a positive dining experience and strong customer satisfaction.

Requirements

• Two years of experience as a Cook I or outside experience in quantity and quality food preparation comparable thereto.

Qualifications

• Experience in high-volume food service, institutional dining, or commercial kitchen environments.
• ServSafe certification.
• Experience operating commercial kitchen equipment such as ovens, steamers, grills, slicers, fryers, and mixers.
• Prior experience training, mentoring, or directing staff or student employees in a food service setting.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Skills

• Leadership and training abilities.
• Attention to detail and consistency in food preparation.
• Ability to multitask and manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Benefits

• Insurance benefits (medical, dental, and vision).
• Retirement plans with generous university contributions.
• A free meal with every shift.
• Paid time off, sick leave, and holiday pay.
• The opportunity to influence how food is prepared and served across campus.

Pay

Starting on your first day.

Schedule

Tuesday – Thursday 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM, Friday – Saturday 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Hours may vary based on operating needs. Nights and weekends as needed.

About ISU Dining

ISU Dining is a nationally recognized campus dining program committed to culinary innovation and excellent service. From residential dining centers and cafés to catering and retail outlets, we serve thousands daily, offering variety, consistency, and quality. This position plays a key role behind the scenes, ensuring every meal starts with a strong foundation. As a member of the dining team, you’ll be part of a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen unlike anything most have experienced. Every day is different as you help manage large-scale meal prep, fine-tune recipes, and keep things running smoothly. If you enjoy leading a team, learning on the job, and working with talented students and full-time workers, this role could be a perfect fit!

Watch Our Team in Action!

Application Instructions

To apply for this position, please click on “Apply” and complete the Employment Application. Please be prepared to enter or attach the following: Resume/Curriculum Vitae Letter of Application/Cover Letter Why Choose Iowa State University?