Specialty Cook - Jinya

Ameristar Casino Resort Spa Black Hawk•Black Hawk, CO

2d•$21 - $23

About The Position

The Specialty Cook prepares food for Jinya and other outlet stations, maintains a safe and sanitary kitchen, and delivers courteous service to guests and coworkers. The role includes setting up and stocking prep stations, following recipes and menu standards, preparing and expediting orders, coordinating with dining room staff, and communicating with Sous Chefs. The cook may work across multiple stations and assist with directing kitchen staff, including assuming limited charge of the kitchen during a shift or when supervisors are absent. The position also involves completing prep lists and daily orders, monitoring staffing needs, maintaining equipment and work areas, and performing opening, closing, and other assigned duties. The role requires fast-paced teamwork, attention to detail, strong organization, and the ability to communicate effectively with guests and team members. Candidates must be able to perform all cooking duties, follow food-safety and health regulations, and complete any classes or certifications required by Colorado or Ameristar Casinos, Inc. The position is open until filled. Starting salary is $21.00 to $23.00 per hour.

Requirements

Three years of minimum experience in food preparation and food knowledge.
Must be able to perform all cooking duties and work at a fast pace with a sense of urgency.
Knowledge of restaurant best practices and cooking methods, or willingness to learn them.
Working knowledge of food storage, knife handling and sharpening, weights and measures, stocks, soups and sauces, plate presentations, recipes and yields, health department regulations, sanitation, and safety regulations.
Ability to read, write, speak, and understand basic English to read recipes and communicate with team members.
Reading and math skills for recipes and measurements.
Ability to read and gather the items needed to execute recipes.
Strong organizational skills and ability to organize and prioritize work and meet deadlines.
Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with team members at all levels.
Excellent guest-service skills and courteous communication with guests and coworkers.
Ability to understand and follow instructions and work harmoniously and efficiently in a team environment.
Ability to multitask and maintain attention to detail.
Ability to complete classes or certifications required by the State of Colorado or Ameristar Casinos, Inc.
Ability to lift up to 30 pounds.
Ability to grasp, bend, lift, carry, move, or push goods on a food warmer weighing up to 300 pounds continuously.
Ability to perform tasks involving bending, stooping, kneeling, standing, and walking significant distances.
Ability to work in hot, normal, and cold temperature ranges.
Ability to operate kitchen equipment, including slicer, steamer, deep fryer, ovens, broiler, grill, mixer, kettle, and flattop.
Ability to work with small, delicate, and sensitive equipment, such as knives, requiring fine finger dexterity.
Must be at least 18 years old for this position.

Responsibilities

Set up and stock prep stations and kitchen areas; replenish supplies and maintain station cleanliness before, during, and after shifts.
Memorize recipes and prepare food items according to standard recipes and menu specifications to ensure consistent quality.
Read computer-printed food orders and prepare and expedite orders promptly.
Wash, slice, peel, and cut ingredients; prepare a variety of foods and components, including salads, soups, sauces, stocks, pasta, seafood, vegetables, and desserts.
Work at various kitchen stations, including sauté, broiler, workstation, appetizer, pantry, pasta, and grill.
Observe and test food to determine whether it is sufficiently cooked.
Prepare daily prep lists and written daily orders; receive and deliver food to the proper areas.
Coordinate orders and communicate with dining room staff and Sous Chefs.
Engage guests in the open kitchen by explaining products, asking questions, and building positive relationships; respond to guest needs and general concerns courteously and promptly.
Assist with directing kitchen staff and coaching cooks and assistant cooks to work productively and efficiently; assume limited charge of the kitchen on assigned shifts and limited supervisory accountability in supervisors’ absence.
Maintain kitchen control and inform chefs when staffing levels do not match business volume.
Use and maintain assigned areas and equipment safely, effectively, and hygienically; complete opening, closing, and other assigned side duties.
Observe and enforce health, food-handling, storage, temperature, sanitation, and safety requirements, including MSDS program knowledge and hand-washing guidelines.
Attend scheduled company and restaurant training programs and pass required tests.
Maintain a neat, clean, and well-groomed appearance and follow Standard Operating Procedures and department standards.
Perform all other duties assigned by management.

Benefits

Day-one medical, dental, vision, life, and short-term disability coverage for full-time team members.
401(k) matching.
Annual performance bonus; availability may vary by position.
Paid time off earned according to local policy and increasing with length of employment.
$700 referral bonus program for team members who refer new applicants, paid in two installments.
Discounted casino bus tickets.
Discounted RTD EcoPass.
Monthly hot meal served by the Leadership Team.
20% discount at Starbucks, Ara Spa, and food outlets.
100% Colorado Gaming License reimbursement after 90 days of employment.
Hotel discounts at 43 PENN properties and discounts on goods and services.
Education reimbursement program and annual scholarship program.
Career development opportunities.
Wellness programs supporting financial, physical, and mental well-being.