Cook - Lincoln

Lincoln, NE • Part-time & Full-time

About Ho-Chunk, Inc. & WarHorse Gaming Lincoln, LLC

Ho-Chunk, Inc. is the award-winning economic development corporation of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska. Its mission is to drive long-term economic growth and create meaningful employment opportunities for Tribal members. WarHorse Gaming is a gaming and entertainment division of Ho-Chunk, Inc., developed in partnership with the Nebraska Horsemen’s Benevolent and Protective Association (HBPA). The company manages the expansion of casino gaming at Nebraska’s historic horse racing venues, with properties in Lincoln, Omaha, and South Sioux City. WarHorse Gaming blends state-of-the-art casino operations with local economic development and community impact. Rooted in Tribal values and driven by guest experience, WarHorse aims to create premier destinations that elevate entertainment in the region.

Our Work Is Guided By Our Core NATIVE Values

• Native American Owned & Proud – Serving the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska.
• Accountable – To always do what’s right.
• Team-Focused – For inclusive progress.
• Innovative – In creating solutions.
• Visionary – In our purpose and direction.
• Excellence – Through learning and performance.

Position Summary

The Cook I is responsible for preparing and presenting food items in accordance with established recipes, quality standards, and safety guidelines. This role supports both line and prep kitchen operations while delivering fast, friendly, and professional service to guests and team members. The Cook I plays an essential role in maintaining a clean, efficient, and compliant kitchen environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food items according to standardized recipes, production specifications, and guest requests
• Support both line and prep cooking functions, including breakfast items, entrées, and desserts
• Utilize proper cooking techniques and follow food handling, storage, and rotation procedures
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of workstations, equipment, counters, floors, and sinks
• Slice, dice, chop, and prepare raw food products
• Portion food, carve meats, apply sauces, garnish plates, and ensure presentation standards
• Operate and maintain kitchen equipment and utensils in accordance with safety guidelines
• Monitor par levels and obtain replacement supplies from inventory as needed
• Identify and address any observed health code or safety concerns
• Demonstrate basic food preparation knowledge and a willingness to develop culinary skills
• Provide courteous, responsive service to guests and team members
• Promote awareness of current casino events and assist guests with directions as needed
• Follow all company policies, procedures, and governmental regulations
• Perform other duties as assigned

Requirements

• Must be 19 years of age or older
• High school diploma, GED, or equivalent experience
• One (1) year of experience in a high-volume food service operation
• Basic knowledge of food preparation techniques, kitchen equipment, and sanitation practices
• Knowledge of weights, measures, and recipe yields
• Ability to taste and smell food items for quality assurance
• Possession of required culinary tools (e.g., knives)
• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Ability to follow instructions and accept direction
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment
• Ability to tolerate industry-standard cleaning and sanitizing chemicals

Preferred Qualifications

• ServSafe certification

Work Environment & Physical Requirements

• Exposure to heat, loud noise, and cramped kitchen spaces
• Frequent standing, walking, bending, and reaching
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Manual dexterity and coordination required for food preparation and equipment operation
• Prolonged periods of physical activity with limited rest
• Sensory acuity, including sight, smell, taste, and touch

Schedule

Due to the nature of the hospitality and entertainment industry, team members must be available to work varying schedules, including nights, weekends, holidays, and extended hours as business needs require. Shifts are typically 12 PM - 8 PM, with schedule varying based on property needs.

Pay & Benefits

• Salary Range: $18/hour (BOE)
• Comprehensive benefits package including:
  • Federal Employees Medical Coverage
  • Full Insurance Coverage offerings
  • 401K with Day 1 Vesting & Company Match
  • Quarterly Incentive Program
  • Vacation, Holiday & Sick Days
  • Discounted Meal Program

Why Join This Team?

• A mission-driven culture dedicated to economic advancement and community impact
• Guided by strong NATIVE values and tribal-owned purpose
• Career stability and opportunities across diverse industries
• A collaborative work environment that encourages innovation and professional growth

Certification Requirements

• Ability to secure and maintain NE Gaming License
• ServSafe certification (preferred)

WarHorse Gaming is a Drug-Free Workplace. All new hires must successfully complete a pre-employment drug screening and may be subject to random drug testing during employment.