Cook I

Churchill Downs•Owensboro, KY

21d•Onsite

About The Position

The F&B Cook I is responsible for preparing and cooking a variety of food items in accordance with established recipes and operational standards. This role plays a vital part in delivering high-quality food to guests by ensuring consistency, proper portioning, and adherence to food safety and sanitation protocols. Working in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment, the F&B Cook I contributes to the overall guest experience through timely and efficient food preparation and presentation. This position requires strong attention to detail, a passion for culinary excellence, and a commitment to maintaining a clean, safe, and organized kitchen.

Requirements

Ability to prepare and cook a variety of food items in a high-volume, fast-paced kitchen.
Strong knowledge of food prep techniques, portion control, and recipe adherence.
Understanding of food safety and sanitation standards, with consistent application.
Proficient with commercial kitchen equipment, including safe operation and basic maintenance.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail to ensure quality and presentation.
Ability to work collaboratively with the culinary team and communicate effectively.
Able to work under pressure, multitask, and maintain efficiency in a busy environment.
Willingness to take direction, accept feedback, and follow established procedures.
Dependable and flexible to work varied schedules, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
Basic knowledge of inventory procedures and supply management.
Ability to maintain a clean, safe, and organized work area.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Kentucky gaming/racing license.
Must be at least 21 years old to apply.
High school diploma or equivalent is required.
Demonstrated knowledge of food preparation techniques, including portion control, safe food handling, and recipe adherence.
Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, tools, and proper maintenance practices.
Understanding of sanitation standards and food safety guidelines, including proper storage and handling of ingredients.
Ability to follow standardized recipes and maintain consistency in food preparation and presentation.
Must be able to obtain and maintain a valid Kentucky gaming/racing license in accordance with state regulations.
This position requires the ability to stand and remain on your feet for extended periods of time while preparing and cooking food.
Frequent use of hands and arms is necessary to handle kitchen tools, equipment, and ingredients.
The role may occasionally require sitting, bending, stooping, and reaching overhead or below waist level.
Specific vision abilities include close vision, distance vision, color vision, depth perception, and peripheral vision to safely operate equipment and monitor food quality.
Must be able to lift and/or move up to 10 pounds regularly, and occasionally more with assistance if needed.
Work environment is fast-paced, often in hot, humid, or noisy kitchen conditions.
Exposure to sharp objects, hot surfaces, and potentially hazardous kitchen equipment is frequent.
Must follow all safety and sanitation procedures to prevent accidents and ensure a clean food preparation environment.
When in public areas of the facility, employees may be exposed to loud noise levels and secondhand smoke from the gaming floor.
Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of the job.

Nice To Haves

Previous experience in a high-volume kitchen or fast-paced culinary environment is preferred.

Responsibilities

Prepare and Cook Food: Accurately prepare and cook menu items following recipes, portion guidelines, and presentation standards.
Maintain Stations: Set up and break down cooking stations, ensuring all equipment, utensils, and surfaces are clean and sanitized.
Ensure Food Quality: Monitor food throughout preparation and cooking to ensure consistency and quality.
Follow Safety & Sanitation: Adhere to all health, safety, and sanitation regulations, including proper food handling and storage.
Assist with Inventory: Receive, inspect, and store deliveries; report any shortages, discrepancies, or quality issues.
Team Collaboration: Communicate and coordinate with kitchen staff to ensure timely food preparation and service.
Menu Support: Provide feedback to the Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager on menu items, preparation methods, and potential new recipes.
Operate Equipment Safely: Use kitchen equipment properly and report malfunctions or safety concerns promptly.
Resolve Prep Issues: Professionally address and resolve issues related to food quality, timing, or preparation.
Policy Compliance: Follow all company policies, safety guidelines, and applicable laws during food prep and service.
Additional Duties: Perform other kitchen tasks as assigned to support overall operations.