Lead Cook

Join Our REAL Food Mission

Lead Cook | Location: Phoenix, AZ 85083

Hourly Pay: $19-$23 per hour| Full-Time

Schedule: Sunday-Thursday, Tuesday-Saturday, or Monday-Friday; typically 9a-6p, but some earlier shifts depending on need (no late nights)

Job Summary

As a Lead Cook, you'll oversee kitchen operations to deliver nutritious, high-quality meals that create a positive dining experience for staff and visitors in our corporate kitchen. You'll lead food preparation, mentor team members, and ensure compliance with dietary guidelines, safety standards, and cost controls. Your leadership and culinary expertise will set the tone for excellence in service.

What You'll Do

• Lead daily kitchen operations, coordinating food production schedules and assigning tasks to ensure timely meal service for tray line, cafeteria, and catering.
• Mentor and train cooks and food service staff, fostering skill development and adherence to standards.
• Review menus, verify recipes, and monitor food presentation to maintain high standards of taste, appearance, and nutrition.
• Enforce sanitation, safety, and ServSafe protocols; ensure proper food storage, labeling, and rotation.
• Oversee supply acquisition, maintain accurate inventory levels, and document usage to control costs.
• Communicate operational needs, equipment repairs, and process improvement recommendations to supervisors.
• Evaluate kitchen workflows and implement strategies for efficiency and quality enhancement.
• Prepare and cook meals using progressive techniques, ensuring dietary requirements and resident satisfaction.
• Provide support for special events and catering
• Perform other duties as assigned.

What You Will Bring

• Minimum 2–3 years of cooking experience, with at least 1 year in a supervisory or lead role.
• High School Diploma/GED required; culinary training preferred.
• ServSafe Certification and State Food Handlers Card.
• Strong leadership and communication abilities.
• Ability to manage inventory and control food costs.
• Ability to pass a criminal background check and drug screen.
• Physical capability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.

Physical and Sensory Requirements

• This job involves regular exposure to moving mechanical parts and a kitchen environment with fumes, airborne particles, and moderate noise. Employees must have the physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift trays, and perform repetitive tasks. Occasional exposure to wet or humid conditions, extreme temperatures, and vibration may occur. Reasonable accommodations are available for individuals with disabilities.

At Thomas Cuisine, our people are purposeful. They care about food and quality and have a desire to make a positive impact in the world through REAL food. Embark on a rewarding culinary journey with us, where your skills will not only flourish but also contribute significantly to the satisfaction and well-being of our healthcare community.

What We Offer

• Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision benefits with several plan options to choose from, provided by Blue Cross. HSA and FSA Plans available.
• Generous Accrued Paid Time Off and Leave Programs, such as Family Care Leave and Bereavement Leave
• 401K Retirement Plan-with company match
• On Demand Pay
• Voluntary Short-Term Disability
• Holiday Pay (for worked holidays)
• Life Insurance
• Employee Referral Bonus Program
• Employee Meal
• Discount Purchase Plans, Legal Services and Wellness initiatives and other benefits via our Employee Assistance Program
• A supportive, collaborative work environment
• Opportunities for growth

Who We Are

Founded in 1986, Thomas Cuisine is an award-winning, privately held contract food service company. We advocate the healing power of whole foods and believe in preparing scratch-made cuisine fresh each day. Our people are purposeful, they care about food and quality, and have a desire to make a positive impact in the world through REAL food. Embark on a rewarding culinary journey with us, where your skills will not only flourish, but also contribute significantly to the satisfaction and well-being of our growing community.

Our commitment to you

At Thomas Cuisine, we are dedicated to fostering a workplace that is diverse, equitable, inclusive, and where every individual feels a sense of belonging. We know that this commitment is an ongoing journey, and we will strive to improve and adapt as we grow. Our DEIB commitment is not just a statement but a living part of our company culture.

REAL Food | Genuine Service | Enduring Relationships

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.