Cook I

POSITION REPORTS TO: Chef de Cuisine, Ovations

POSITION MANAGES: None

POSITION LOCATION: 100% onsite

POSITION SUMMARY: The Cook I is a member of the Foundation’s culinary team responsible for preparing and cooking food according to established recipes, menus, and quality standards. This position supports buffet, à la carte, and catering operations while maintaining a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment.

DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

Food Preparation and Cooking

• Prepare and cook food according to established recipes and standards.
• Assist with daily food preparation, including cutting, measuring, mixing, portioning, and plating.
• Maintain consistency in food quality, flavor, presentation, and portion sizes.
• Follow prep lists and Periodic Automatic Replacement (PAR) levels and help minimize food waste.
• Assist the culinary team with food production and service as needed.

Kitchen Operations and Food Safety

• Operate kitchen equipment safely and properly.
• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary workstations.
• Properly label, date, store, and handle food products.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and personal hygiene standards.
• Clean and sanitize equipment, utensils, and work areas.
• Communicate effectively with team members and supervisors.

Qualifications

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:

• High school diploma or equivalent, transferrable experience; culinary education or training highly preferred
• 1-2+ years of previous food preparation or cooking experience preferred; high-volume or catering experience, and knowledge of a professional kitchen is a plus.
• ServSafe Food Handler Certification or the ability to obtain certification is required.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Basic knowledge of food preparation and cooking techniques; ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food quality and presentation.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Positive attitude, strong communication skills, and ability to work effectively as part of a team.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Sensitivity and commitment to the mission of Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS:

• Ability to work in indoor and outdoor environments, including hot, humid, and loud conditions, for prolonged periods. Ability to safely work around hot surfaces, hot liquids, sharp knives, and slippery floors.
• Ability to stand, walk, stoop, bend, and reach for extended periods.
• Ability to safely lift and carry up to 60 pounds.
• Ability to perform repetitive hand and arm movements required for food preparation.
• Ability to taste and smell.
• Vision abilities include close vision, color vision, depth perception, and the ability to adjust focus.

We’re pleased to consider applicants who will be physically located in and who will have a local address in Virginia, Maryland, or the District of Columbia for the duration of their employment. The Foundation does not offer fully remote work for any positions. Applicants who reside in any other state would be required to be physically located in and provide a local address in Virginia, Maryland, or the District of Columbia prior to starting work for Wolf Trap Foundation.

Wolf Trap Foundation for the Performing Arts is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a diverse, equitable and inclusive work environment that embraces and encourages different perspectives. We work to reflect and be representative of the communities in which we serve and in which we reside. Qualified individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans who need assistance or an accommodation in our job application processes should contact hr@wolftrap.org. An offer of employment is contingent on successfully passing a background check.