Cook

We are seeking a dependable and skilled Cook to join our culinary team at Derby Dinner Playhouse, a fast-paced dinner theatre serving large buffet-style meals to our guests. The ideal candidate will have at least one year of prior cooking experience, strong attention to detail, and the ability to prepare high-quality food for large groups while maintaining efficiency, safety, and consistency.

At Derby Dinner Playhouse, you’ll be part of a creative, high-energy environment that combines great food with live entertainment. We value teamwork, pride in craftsmanship, and creating memorable experiences for our guests every night.

Key Responsibilities

Prepare and cook buffet-style dishes according to established recipes and standards.

Assist with food preparation before showtimes to ensure timely and organized service.

Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work area in compliance with health and safety regulations.

Ensure proper storage, rotation, and labeling of all food items.

Collaborate with kitchen staff to maintain smooth operations during peak service hours.

Assist with the set-up and break-down of kitchen stations.

Follow portion control, quality, and presentation standards to deliver a consistent guest experience.

Adhere to all food handling, sanitation, and safety procedures.

Support the Kitchen Manager and other cooks as needed in daily operations and prep work.

Qualifications

Minimum 1 year of prior cooking experience required (restaurant, catering, or banquet environment preferred).

Ability to prepare large quantities of food efficiently and consistently.

Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation practices.

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks at once.

Must be reliable, punctual, and team-oriented.

Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 25 lbs.

Culinary certifications, ServSafe certification, or formal culinary training are a plus but not required.