Cook I - Join the Team!
Posted on October 24, 2025
Desert Diamond Casino (DDC) located in Glendale, AZ, is a dynamic and vibrant entertainment and dining establishment known for its exceptional gaming experience and diverse culinary venues. As a premier destination in the region, DDC offers a wide array of food and beverage options designed to cater to the tastes of its diverse clientele, making it a standout venue for those seeking a career in the hospitality and culinary industry. Full-time employment opportunities at DDC come with competitive starting pay ranging from $18.01 to $24.36 per hour, reflecting the company’s commitment to valuing skilled and dedicated team members.
The Cook I position at Desert Diamond Casino is an entry-level role within the culinary team that plays a crucial part in delivering top-quality food to guests. Reporting directly to the Assistant Sous Chef, this role involves mastering a diverse range of cooking techniques to prepare meals that meet the casino’s high standards. The position requires knowledge of basic meat and fish butchery, stock and sauce preparation, and proper food storage practices. Maintaining cleanliness and organization within the kitchen and food storage areas is also a vital responsibility, as is adhering to all tribal, city, state, and federal health and food safety regulations.
A Cook I at DDC is expected to handle various tasks ranging from food preparation according to standardized recipes to ensuring that all kitchen and venue areas are ready for service by the scheduled opening time. This role demands consistent communication with the Assistant Sous Chef to maintain proper stock levels, incorporate excellent knife skills, and operate kitchen equipment safely. In addition to culinary skills, the position emphasizes the importance of teamwork, professional conduct, and providing exceptional guest service in alignment with Desert Diamond Casino’s Spirit of Service Standards.
The work environment is fast-paced and sometimes physically demanding, requiring candidates to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and work in a kitchen exposed to heat, fumes, and noise. The ideal candidate is not only skillful in food preparation but also capable of thriving in busy situations while maintaining a professional appearance and demeanor. The position requires flexibility to work days, evenings, graveyard shifts, holidays, and weekends as needed.
This role is integral to the overall success of the food and beverage operations at Desert Diamond Casino, contributing to the memorable dining experiences of casino guests. It provides a solid foundation for culinary professionals to advance their skills, learn new cooking methods and techniques, and become part of an esteemed hospitality team. Prospective candidates should possess a passion for cooking, a strong work ethic, and the ability to support a team-oriented environment while upholding the highest quality standards in food service.
                - Must be at least 18 years of age
 - no felony, theft, or stealing convictions
 - pass pre-employment drug and alcohol screen
 - successfully complete background investigation
 - obtain and maintain gaming license
 - stand for extended periods
 - ability to lift and move up to 50 pounds
 - work days, evenings, graveyards, holidays and weekends
 - physically able to perform kitchen tasks including cutting, grabbing, lifting, washing and holding items
 - maintain professional behavior
 - work in a noisy kitchen environment with exposure to heat, fumes and second hand smoke