Catering Cook

Guadalupe Centers•Kansas City, KS

10h

About The Position

The Catering Cook provides hands-on culinary support for Guadalupe Centers’ catering and special event operations. Working under the direction of the Director of Catering, this role assists with food preparation, cooking, and execution of internal and external events, supporting catering operations based on scheduled programs and event demand.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Valid Kansas City, MO Food Handler’s Permit or ServSafe Food Protection certification, or ability to obtain within 30 days
Minimum of 2–3 years of experience in a professional kitchen or catering environment
Demonstrated knowledge of food safety, sanitation, allergen awareness, and safe food handling practices
Ability to follow standardized recipes, production schedules, portion controls, and food safety guidelines
Ability to safely operate and work with commercial kitchen equipment, including ovens, stoves, steamers, griddles, and steam tables
Valid driver’s license with the ability to deliver or pick up food-related products as needed
Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment
Strong teamwork, communication, and time-management skills
Flexibility to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and varying schedules based on catering needs
Ability to pass a background check, if required by contract or work location

Nice To Haves

Experience with high-volume food production and off-site catering
Prior experience supporting catering operations for schools, community programs, or special events
ServSafe Food Protection certification (if not already required at time of hire)
Experience with inventory tracking and food preparation planning
Knowledge of special dietary needs and culturally appropriate menu preparation
Bilingual in Spanish and English

Responsibilities

Prepare, cook, and plate food for daily operations, internal programming, and catered events following established menus and recipes
Assist the Director of Catering with menu execution and food preparation planning
Support high-volume food production for school contracts, agency events, and third-party catering clients
Ensure proper food handling, storage, and sanitation in compliance with health department regulations and food safety standards
Assist with kitchen setup, breakdown, and cleanup for catering events and special programs
Monitor food quality, portioning, and presentation to maintain consistency
Assist with inventory tracking, food prep lists, and restocking kitchen supplies as directed
Provide on-the-job guidance and support to temporary or event staff during food preparation and service (non-supervisory)
Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment
Participate in recipe preparation and testing, including culturally appropriate and healthy menu items
Support training of new kitchen staff by demonstrating proper food preparation and safety practices
Other duties as assigned.