Culinary Externship

About Us

HEI manages an unparalleled portfolio of leading full-service branded hotels and luxury and lifestyle independent hotels across the U.S. We are the acknowledged experts on upper-upscale, luxury, and premium select-serve hotels in urban, super-suburban, and destination locations. At HEI, we recognize that our enormous success is solely the result of our greatest asset: Our People. Where people work is a choice. Against that choice, our greatest obligation is to ensure day in and day out that our associates have the compensation and benefits they deserve and industry leading tools, training and support that they need to excel. At HEI, simply said, we honor the privilege of our associates choosing us by investing in and making them more valuable. Don't meet every single requirement of this job? At HEI we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you're excited about this role but your experience doesn't align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to still send in your information. You may be the perfect candidate for this or for other roles within our organization! We value U.S. military experience and invite all qualified military candidates to apply.

Responsibilities

• Prepare food items according to standardized recipes, production methods, and presentation standards.
• Assist in daily mise en place, including prepping vegetables, proteins, sauces, and garnishes.
• Maintain proper food handling, sanitation, and safety procedures in accordance with local health regulations and company standards.
• Label, date, and rotate food products following FIFO (First In, First Out) procedures.
• Support line cooks and chefs during service periods to ensure timely and consistent plate execution.
• Learn proper knife skills, butchery fundamentals, sauce preparation, and station organization.
• Assist with inventory management, portion control, and minimizing food waste.
• Properly operate and maintain kitchen equipment including ovens, ranges, grills, fryers, mixers, slicers, and food processors.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation throughout each shift.
• Participate in menu tastings, culinary meetings, and feedback sessions when applicable.
• Perform additional culinary-related duties as assigned to support learning objectives.

Qualifications

• Current student enrolled at The Culinary Institute of America (externship required for graduation).
• Prior kitchen experience preferred but not required.
• Basic understanding of culinary fundamentals and sanitation practices.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs. with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Finger and hand dexterity to safely operate kitchen tools and equipment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Effective verbal communication skills and ability to work collaboratively in a team-oriented environment.
• Willingness to learn, accept feedback, and adapt in a fast-paced setting.

Benefits

• Competitive Medical and Dental programs through Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield.
• Vision insurance programs through EyeMed.
• Vacation, Sick and Holiday programs.
• Pet insurance through the ASPCA.
• Supplemental, Spousal and Child Life insurance.
• Short and Long-Term Disability plans.
• 401(k) Savings Plan with matching funds.
• Discounts through the 'YouDecide' and Hotel Room Discount programs.

Pay

Salary Range: $15.00 - $25.00 Hourly. Tipped/Service Charge Eligible: No. Discretionary Performance Bonus Eligible: No.