Culinary Team Member (Cook)

MOUNTAIN CAPITAL PARTNERS • Durango, CO

82d • $17 - $24

About The Position

As a Culinary Team Member at a ski resort with diverse dining venues, you are responsible for preparing and serving high-quality food in a fast-paced, seasonal environment. Your role supports the overall guest experience by maintaining cleanliness, consistency, and efficiency in food preparation, presentation, and service. Whether working in a fine dining restaurant, casual lodge, grab-and-go outlet, or outdoor venue, you contribute to a welcoming and memorable experience for guests by upholding food safety standards, supporting team operations, and adapting to various culinary styles and service models across the resort. This is a seasonal position from November to April. Dates are subject to change based on the availability of the applicant and needs of the business. This role comes with a free season pass for you and your dependents.

Requirements

• 1+ years of kitchen experience.
• Basic understanding of culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and food preparation methods.
• Familiarity with food safety and sanitation standards.
• Knowledge of proper food storage, labeling, rotation (FIFO), and temperature control.
• Awareness of various cuisines and menu types (e.g., comfort food, quick service, fine dining, après-ski fare).
• Understanding of dietary restrictions and allergen awareness.
• Proficient in basic kitchen tasks such as chopping, grilling, sautéing, baking, and portioning.
• Ability to follow recipes and preparation guidelines with accuracy and efficiency.
• Strong knife handling and kitchen equipment operation skills.
• Effective time management and multitasking in a fast-paced environment.
• Teamwork and communication skills to work collaboratively with kitchen and front-of-house staff.
• Adaptability to work in varying kitchen environments and shift between venues or stations as needed.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift/move up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to work in high-altitude, cold, and sometimes remote conditions (e.g., on-mountain lodges).
• Ability to remain calm and focused during busy or stressful service periods.
• Ability to learn and apply new menu items, cooking methods, or kitchen protocols quickly.
• Ability to maintain a positive, guest-focused attitude and represent the resort's values.
• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions, including prep lists, opening/closing checklists, and safety procedures.

Nice To Haves

• ServSafe certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook food according to standardized recipes and specific venue requirements (e.g., fine dining, casual dining, grab-and-go).
• Maintain high food quality and presentation standards across all dishes, ensuring consistency and appeal for guests.
• Follow all food safety and sanitation guidelines, including proper food handling, storage, labeling, and cleanliness in accordance with local health codes and resort policies.
• Assist in setup, stocking, and breakdown of kitchen stations before, during, and after service.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently, including ovens, grills, fryers, slicers, and dishwashing machines.
• Collaborate with fellow culinary team members and front-of-house staff to ensure smooth kitchen operations and timely service.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including regular cleaning of tools, surfaces, and kitchen equipment.
• Adapt to different venues and menu styles, rotating between various resort kitchens as needed (e.g., high-volume cafeterias, après-ski lounges, on-mountain huts).
• Support inventory and restocking efforts, including receiving deliveries and tracking food usage and waste.
• Assist in training seasonal or new staff, helping them understand kitchen protocols and resort expectations.
• Provide excellent guest service, occasionally interacting with customers in open kitchens or food service lines.
• Comply with all resort safety procedures, including lift safety if accessing on-mountain venues.

Benefits

• Free season pass for you and your dependents.

What This Job Offers

• Number of Employees: 251-500 employees