Banquet Cook I

Loews Hotels & Co • Arlington, TX

9d • Onsite

About The Position

The Banquet Cook I prepares and presents high-quality food for hotel banquet functions and events. The role supports guest experiences through consistent food preparation, presentation, and service, working closely with the Banquet Chef and kitchen team to execute menus for weddings, conferences, meetings, and other group events.

The position includes preparing banquet menu items to hotel recipes and standards, coordinating work with event timelines and requirements, and maintaining kitchen cleanliness, food safety, and sanitation. The cook may assist with buffet setup, plating, carving or live cooking stations, inventory, and training junior kitchen staff. Schedules may vary according to business and event needs.

Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• At least 2 years of experience in a hotel, banquet, or catering kitchen.
• Knowledge of banquet-style service, buffet preparation, and large-volume cooking techniques.
• Knife skills and ability to work pantry, grill, and sauté stations.
• Knowledge of grill cooking temperatures, sauté techniques, and basic mother sauces.
• Knowledge of how to operate kitchen equipment.
• Ability to work under pressure, handle multiple tasks, and manage difficult situations.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work a flexible schedule, including weekends, holidays, and early or late shifts based on event needs.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and to stand, stoop, and bend repetitively during a shift.
• Ability to lift and carry food service trays weighing 35 pounds or more and lift up to 50 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Formal culinary training or an associate degree.
• SERV Safe Certification.
• High school diploma or equivalent (also listed under preferred qualifications).

Responsibilities

• Prepare, cook, and present banquet menu items according to hotel recipes, portion-control standards, and guest expectations.
• Set up and stock workstations with necessary supplies and ingredients for banquet service.
• Coordinate food preparation with banquet event timelines to ensure meals are delivered on time.
• Work with banquet and catering teams to meet event requirements, including dietary restrictions and themed meals.
• Follow hotel brand standards for food quality, presentation, and sanitation.
• Keep kitchen equipment, banquet preparation areas, and walk-in coolers clean and organized.
• Assist with buffet setup, plating, carving stations, and live cooking stations as needed.
• Maintain food safety and sanitation standards in accordance with local health department regulations and hotel policies.
• Assist with inventory management and notify a supervisor about ingredient or supply shortages.
• Train and mentor junior cooks and kitchen staff when assigned.
• Adapt to last-minute changes and solve problems in a fast-paced event environment.
• Maintain regular attendance in accordance with standards.
• Attend mandatory training sessions and meetings.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Benefits

• Competitive health and wellness benefits.
• 401(k) and company match.
• Paid sick days, vacation, holidays, and paid bereavement.
• Training and development opportunities and career growth.
• Tuition reimbursement.
• Pet insurance and pet bereavement.
• Team member hotel rates, discounts, and other perks.
• Complimentary parking.
• Complimentary meals in the Team Member Café while working.
• Discounted tickets to local attractions and entertainment venues.
• Community volunteer opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED