Veranda Cook

  • Starved Rock Lodge and Conference Center
  • Oglesby, Illinois
  • Full Time
Come work in the most scenic area in Illinois, Starved Rock Lodge, nestled in beautiful Starved Rock State Park, which hosts 2.5 million visitors every year. Join our amazing team of associates working in our historic lodge, charming log cabins, beautiful retail gift stores or award-winning restaurant among the trees, canyons, and waterfalls of the park. Whether you are looking for an entry-level hospitality position or simply want to enhance your professional skills, we are the employer who believes in providing amazing associate experiences. Come join our talented team and begin your next adventure! We are now hiring a Cook for our outdoor veranda grill!

Summary of Position:
The Veranda Cook prepares a selection of lunch and dinner items for guests dining on our outdoor veranda overlooking Starved Rock. This position is perfect for an individual with a desire to be part of a team and work in the great outdoors! Qualified individuals must be passionate about food and willing to work hard to create an exceptional customer experience. Open availability is a must. Responsibilities:
  • Prepare foods in accordance with food quality standards for Starved Rock Lodge, utilizing the freshest ingredients.
  • Prepare all food according to recipe, including daily specials and special banquet menu items, and ensure that the food delivered to the customer looks and tastes good, is at the appropriate temperature, and correct portion.
  • Assemble buffet at the appropriate times and ensure that it is kept replenished and full.
  • Follow standard operating procedures for the kitchen that ensure quality standards.
  • Maintain clean and orderly cooking and preparation areas. Clean cooking equipment to control cross-contamination.
  • Assist with banquet prep. Decorate all banquet food and trays according to selected themes.
  • Keep open communication with wait staff and the front of the house.
  • Greet and maintain rapport with customers and staff, creating a positive image for the Lodge.
  • Control food costs through maximizing the yield from food products and creative use of left-over products. Prepare waste sheet at the end of the day.
  • Make sure that all food is stored in accordance with food quality and sanitation standards.

Qualifications:
  • Demonstrated success in a team environment.
  • Must have a sensitive palate and sense of smell, good eye for color and composition of food.
  • Demonstrated organization, planning and time management.
Requirements and Qualifications:
  • Some general schooling
  • Illinois Food Handler certificate or Food Sanitation license (or willingness to obtain)
  • Demonstrated success working in a team environment
  • Must be passionate about food and willing to work hard to create an exceptional customer experience
  • Exceptional customer service skills
  • Ability to learn and master new concepts
  • Positive work ethic
  • Demonstrated organization, planning, and time management skills
  • Must be able to walk and stand for long periods of time
  • Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs. on occasion, 20 lbs. regularly
  • Must be willing to work weekends, evenings and holidays as needed
  • Must be at least 16 years of age
HOURLY RATE: $15 - $18 BENEFITS:
  • Medical, Dental, Vision Plans
  • Paid Time Off
  • 401k Program
  • Life Insurance
  • Disability Coverage
  • Reward & Recognition Program
  • Site Discounts
  • Employee Assistance Program
Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability or protected veteran status, and all other status protected by law.
Job ID: 482714150
Originally Posted on: 6/25/2025

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