Lead Cook

DNATA US Inflight Catering • Houston, TX

37d • Onsite

About The Position

The Cook Lead is responsible for overseeing daily food production activities while actively participating in cooking and preparation. This role ensures meals are produced efficiently, consistently, and in compliance with all food safety and quality standards. The Cook Lead provides guidance to kitchen staff, supports production planning, and ensures adherence to airline specifications, recipes, and timelines in a high-volume environment.

Requirements

• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• Minimum 3 years of experience in high-volume food production
• Previous experience in a lead, senior cook, or supervisory capacity preferred
• Valid Food Handler’s Certificate or equivalent
• Strong knowledge of HACCP, GMP, and food safety standards
• Experience with menu execution and production planning
• Strong leadership, communication, and team coordination skills
• Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills
• Ability to multitask and manage a heavy workload
• Flexibility to work nights, days, weekends, and holidays
• Must meet all applicable state and local food handler certification requirements for the work location (Texas requires a Food Handler Certificate within 60 days of hire).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• The employee is continuously asked to multi-task under time limits.
• Position requires constant attention to precise details and accuracy of specified standards including following simple to complex (more than 3 steps) instructions, and concentration which frequently extends beyond 30 minutes at a time.
• This position also requires constant attendance and punctuality - Is consistently at work and on time.
• Follows instructions, responds to management direction; Takes responsibility for own actions; Completes tasks on time or notifies appropriate person with an alternate plan.
• Meets productivity standards; Completes work in timely manner; Strives to increase productivity; Works quickly.
• Regularly required to stand, walk; reach with hands and arms and stoop, kneel, or crouch.
• Must regularly lift and /or move up to 30 pounds.
• Observes safety and security procedures; Reports potentially unsafe conditions; Use equipment and materials properly.

Nice To Haves

• Previous experience in a lead, senior cook, or supervisory capacity preferred

Responsibilities

• Lead and support daily kitchen operations, ensuring production targets and timelines are met
• Prepare and produce high-volume meals according to established menus and standardized recipes
• Ensure tasks assigned by department management are carried out by cooks and kitchen staff during shifts
• Monitor food quality, presentation, and portion consistency to meet airline specifications
• Ensure compliance with HACCP, GMP, and all food safety and sanitation standards
• Conduct routine checks on food handling, storage, and labeling practices
• Assist in training and onboarding new kitchen team members
• Communicate effectively with supervisors and cross-functional teams to ensure smooth operations
• Maintain a clean, safe, and organized work environment
• Support continuous improvement initiatives within the kitchen
• Perform other duties as assigned

Benefits

• 401(k)
• Medical, Dental & Vision
• Complimentary Daily Meals: Enjoy FREE breakfast, lunch, and dinner during your shift
• Mentoring opportunities
• Volunteer opportunities
• Professional development opportunities

What This Job Offers

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