Prep Cook, Syracuse Airport - $19 per HOUR
Posted on October 24, 2025
Delaware North Travel is a prominent hospitality services company currently seeking a full-time Prep Cook to join their team at Syracuse Hancock International Airport in Syracuse, New York. Delaware North has been providing exceptional hospitality services since 2019, operating a variety of food and beverage outlets at Syracuse Airport, including well-known brands such as Middle Ages Brewing Company, Dunkin Coffee on the Run, and Johnny Rockets. Serving more than a million travelers annually, the airport is the primary passenger gateway for Central New York. Delaware North team members benefit from a paid meal during their shifts, underscoring the company’s commitment to employee care and satisfaction.
Delaware North is a family-owned company with a legacy extending over 100 years, and its global operations span iconic venues such as sports arenas, national parks, casinos, and airports around the world. Their dedication to creating memorable experiences is matched by a strong focus on fostering employee growth and success, offering numerous career paths in various sectors including restaurants, hotels, gaming, retail, and operations. The company values diversity and inclusivity, making it an equal opportunity employer that welcomes individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or sexual orientation.
The Prep Cook role at Delaware North involves working in a fast-paced kitchen environment where teamwork, consistency, and culinary excellence are paramount. This position entails preparing food according to specific recipes and quality standards, maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen, and supporting overall kitchen operations to ensure timely and quality food service. Scheduled shifts run from 3:30 AM to 12:00 PM, accommodating both early risers and those looking to contribute to morning kitchen duties.
This role offers competitive hourly pay at a rate of $19.37 and provides access to a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the personal and professional well-being of employees. Eligible team members can access health, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) plan with company match, paid vacation, holidays, parental leave, tuition reimbursement, and more. Additionally, Delaware North fosters an environment of continuous learning by offering training and development opportunities alongside employee discounts and flexible scheduling.
With a clear focus on health and safety, the Prep Cook must comply with all sanitation, safety, and kitchen procedures. They will manage food preparation from start to finish, ensuring that all food products meet ServSafe standards including proper labeling, dating, and wrapping. Critical physical requirements involve the ability to lift weights above 20 pounds, stand for extended periods, and skillfully operate kitchen tools and equipment safely. This role requires someone who can read and comprehend prep sheets efficiently while communicating effectively with the chef and other kitchen personnel to maintain smooth operations.
Delaware North's upcoming transition includes the sale of its US-based Travel Hospitality Services division to Areas, a global travel dining and retail leader, expected to conclude by the fourth quarter of 2025. This change will integrate Delaware North’s team into a broader network with operational reach in airports and travel plazas nationwide, promising expanded career opportunities and access to a larger international community supported by a company generating over $3 billion in annual revenue. This makes the Prep Cook role an exciting opportunity to be part of a robust and evolving hospitality landscape.
Overall, joining Delaware North as a Prep Cook offers more than just a job; it is an opportunity to be part of a proud legacy, build a promising career in hospitality, and contribute to creating outstanding guest experiences in a dynamic airport environment. The company’s commitment to employee care, diversity, and excellence makes this position well suited to individuals eager to grow and succeed in the culinary arts within a respected global hospitality brand.
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Ability to lift 20 lbs or more
- Ability to stand and bend for long periods of time
- Manual ability to chop, mix, blend, whip a variety of foods and liquids, and operate kitchen equipment
- Flexibility to work early morning shifts, holidays, and weekends
- Adherence to health codes and safety regulations