Lead Cook - Mercer University

Aramark is a global leader in food service, facilities management, and uniform services, proudly serving millions of guests every day across 15 countries worldwide. As a company deeply rooted in service and united by their purposeful mission, Aramark strives to make a positive impact not only for its customers but also for its employees, business partners, communities, and the planet. With a strong commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, Aramark fosters an environment where every employee enjoys equal employment opportunities and is encouraged to participate fully across all areas of the company. They do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, pregnancy, disability, genetic information, military status, or other protected classifications under applicable law. The Lead Cook role at Aramark is a key position within their culinary team, responsible for ensuring high standards in food preparation, safety, and culinary execution. This role involves cooking and preparing food using standard recipes and production guidelines while adhering strictly to food safety, handling, and sanitation procedures. The Lead Cook operates various kitchen equipment safely such as grills, fryers, ovens, and broilers. Additionally, the role may require supervisory duties—including scheduling and assigning daily tasks to kitchen staff, training employees in correct cooking methods and safety protocols, and ensuring the smooth flow of kitchen operations. This role demands hands-on cooking skills alongside leadership abilities to maintain a productive and compliant kitchen environment. Working as a Lead Cook with Aramark means being part of a dynamic organization that values skill development and encourages employees to rise to challenges. The Lead Cook must demonstrate proficiency in various cooking techniques including baking, roasting, broiling, and steaming while consistently following established recipes to maintain high food quality standards. Moreover, the position requires attention to detail with food presentation, garnishing, and portion control, ensuring a great culinary experience for customers. Aramark emphasizes food safety strongly, so the Lead Cook is also responsible for proper food storage, cleanliness, and sanitization of work areas and equipment. The role may include physical demands such as lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, and extended periods of walking or standing. Use of uniforms and personal protective equipment (PPE) may also be necessary to comply with safety standards. Aramark expects its Lead Cook to uphold exceptional customer service standards, maintaining a positive attitude toward guests, co-workers, and clients. This position adapts to business needs and client requirements, so flexibility and a willingness to take on additional responsibilities or changes in duties are vital. Aramark offers a career path that fosters professional and personal growth by providing employees with opportunities to develop new skills and advance within the company. The organization places a strong focus on community and environmental responsibility while supporting its employees through comprehensive training and benefits.

• Food safety certification required
• experience as a cook or related role
• ability to work independently with limited supervision
• physical ability to lift, bend, push, pull, and stand or walk for extended periods
• ability to safely handle knives and kitchen equipment
• willingness to wear uniforms and personal protective equipment (PPE)
• adherence to food safety, sanitation, and security policies