Rock City Lead Cook (Full-Time) - $19 per HOUR
Posted on October 24, 2025
Rock City Enterprises is a well-established company known for its commitment to delivering exceptional guest experiences through various entertainment and dining services. Among its ventures, Rock City Gardens stands out as a premier destination that combines natural beauty with quality culinary offerings. As part of the Food & Beverage division, Rock City Gardens focuses on providing memorable dining experiences that complement the unique ambiance of the gardens. This emphasis on creating lasting memories aligns seamlessly with the company's broader mission and core values, including innovation, communication, learning, appreciation, accountability, and proactivity.
The Lead Cook position at Rock City Gardens plays a pivotal role within the Food & Beverage operations. This is a leadership role designed for a culinary professional who not only excels in food preparation but also thrives in training and developing kitchen team members. The Lead Cook is entrusted with maintaining the highest food quality and safety standards, ensuring that the kitchen operates efficiently while upholding cleanliness and organizational best practices. This role requires a collaborative and proactive individual who can work closely with the Food & Beverage Manager to enhance menu offerings and operational processes, ultimately contributing to increased sales and guest satisfaction.
In this role, the Lead Cook acts as both a mentor and subject matter expert for all food sanitation, preparation, and safety protocols. They are responsible for enforcing compliance with ServSafe certification standards, training kitchen partners on proper sanitation procedures, and leading initiatives aimed at waste reduction and cost management. The role is dynamic, requiring flexibility to fill cook shifts when necessary and to manage a variety of kitchen operations ranging from daily preparation to long-term deep cleaning schedules.
Beyond daily duties, the Lead Cook contributes to the strategic aspect of food service at Rock City Gardens by assisting in developing new menu items and refining existing offerings. This creative input helps keep the culinary experience fresh and appealing to guests, supporting the overall business objectives. The Lead Cook also oversees the partner lunch program, ensuring quality and consistency for internal team meals, which fosters a positive workplace environment.
The position demands strong leadership and communication skills, with a focus on motivating and coaching team members to perform at their best. Attention to detail and the ability to maintain composure in a fast-paced kitchen environment are essential. The Lead Cook is expected to embody Rock City Enterprises' Culture of Excellence through professionalism and dedication.
This opportunity is ideal for an experienced line cook with at least two years in a fast-paced kitchen, proven ability to train others, and a passion for culinary arts and food safety. The role offers a chance to grow within a reputable company that values innovation and teamwork while making a tangible impact on guest experiences and operational success.
- Minimum 2 years of experience as a line cook preparing made-to-order food in a fast-paced kitchen environment
- Experience training and coaching other cooks in food preparation, safety, and sanitation
- ServSafe certification required or ability to obtain within 60 days of hire
- Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
- Ability to stand for long periods, walk, stoop, kneel, and crouch as required in kitchen settings
- Flexible schedule availability including nights, weekends, holidays, and special events