Lead Cook

HRI Hospitality • Nashville, TN

5d • Onsite

About The Position

The Lead Cook is responsible for meal preparation and assigned kitchen duties. Work hours and days vary according to business needs and may include weekends and holidays. The role supports food preparation for the hotel restaurant and catering functions, with attention to food safety, quality, presentation, portion control, cost management, sanitation, and guest satisfaction. The Lead Cook also assists with kitchen inventory, ordering, reporting, staff training, and coordination with the Sales Department for catering reservations and special menu requests.

Requirements

• At least two years of hospitality or restaurant food service experience.
• Ability to work with little or no supervision.
• Ability to read, write, and communicate verbally effectively and professionally with other business departments, guests, and vendors.
• Ability to handle difficult situations and people diplomatically while maintaining professionalism.

Nice To Haves

• High school graduate or equivalent preferred.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate culinary staff to prepare food and meals for restaurant and catering functions while following food handling and safety guidelines.
• Manage food costs and portion control while maintaining quality.
• Assist with food quality and presentation, and maintain kitchen and restaurant cleanliness and organization as needed.
• Accommodate guests’ special requests.
• Keep the work area clean, following a “clean as you go” policy.
• Place orders when the Chef or Sous Chef is absent; assist with inventory and receiving food and beverage products.
• Use First-in, First Out (FIFO) practices to help manage inventory and food costs.
• Assist with required reports, including inventory, food costs, and beverage costs.
• Maintain sanitation and safety standards for everyone entering the kitchen.
• Communicate with the Chef, Sous Chef, and cook staff about items that need to be ordered.
• Assist with training and monitoring kitchen personnel as needed.
• Coordinate catering reservations and food preparation with the Sales Department, follow up on menu items, cost special menu requests, and help ensure guest satisfaction.
• Identify safety hazards and report them immediately to the Department Supervisor.
• Assist with preparing food while maintaining a clean work area.

What This Job Offers

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