As Line Cook , you will initiate all actions necessary to carry out food preparation and presentation by following the prep list and as dictated by the orders received from the Chef. Assist the Chef with all food production by butchering meats and fish, prepping sauces, grilling, frying, plating up food, etc. insuring that all food is prepared according to standard recipe and presented in a consistent manner.

The starting wage for this position is $11.75 per hour.
*Valid driver's license required.

Brookfield Zoo offers an unbeatable venue for various events from weddings, birthday parties, business meetings, black-tie events, fundraisers, ceremonies, picnics and countless others with a top-notch catering and culinary team. Our Catering team offers the highest quality of service to our guest enjoying an exemplary event.

The primary duties and responsibilities include:

• Initiate all actions necessary to carry out food preparation and presentation by following the prep list and as dictated by the orders received from the Assist the Chef with all food production by butchering meats and fish, prepping sauces, grilling, frying, plating up food, etc. insuring that all food is prepared according to standard recipe and presented in a consistent manner.
• Follow established food service sanitation practices.
• Maintain a clean and safe work area by wiping down counters throughout the day, sweeping and mopping up spills as they occur.
• Assist the Chef in the breakdown of all utilized areas at the end of the event and clean all equipment; carving station, buffet. As needed wash dishes, glasses, flatware, pots, pans, utensils to departmental specifications.
• Receive and put away stock following the first in, first out method (FIFO)
• Answer guests' request for recipe explanations.
• Other related duties as assigned.

Position Requirements and Specifications
The requirements for this position include the following:

• Must be at least 18 years of age.


• Knowledge of safety and food handling guidelines and procedures.


• Understanding of proper use and maintenance of all major kitchen equipment including grills, stoves, refrigeration, slicer, knives and dish machine.


• Strong customer service and organizational skills required.


• Ability to work in a team environment and take direction.


• Able to stand and work at a fast pace for entire shift.


• Must maintain a physical presence in the kitchen during dining hours.


• Must be punctual in attending scheduled shifts.


• Experience and/or ability to work and interact effectively with a diverse, multicultural audience.


• Valid driver's license required . Illinois residents must possess a valid Illinois Driver's license within 90 days of hire. Valid out-of-state license required for out-of-state residents.

The desirable qualifications include :

• High School graduate or (GED) equivalent preferred.


• Current enrollment in a culinary degree program strongly desired.


• Experience as a line cook in a restaurant, banquet or catering environment preferred.


• Multilingual ability, Spanish fluency a plus.

Additional Information: Must represent the Chicago Zoological Society in a professional manner. This is a seasonal entry-level position that requires a flexible, creative person. Incumbents receive training and mentoring from qualified staff. Must be able to work weekends, evenings and holidays as required. Catered Events employees may be scheduled to work morning, afternoon, or evening functions. Employees are scheduled to start as early as 6:30 a.m. and work as late as 2:00 a.m. Catered Events employees may be required to work a 10-hour day or longer. Work schedule are based on the needs of the operation. The peak operating months for this position are from April-October and again in December. The typical work schedule consists of mainly Friday/Saturdays/Sundays and can average approximately 20 hours per week.

Additional Information
The Chicago Zoological Society is an Equal Opportunity Employer / Affirmative Action Employer - Minorities / Women / Veterans / Disabled.