Second Cook Dining Center-Goldstein Dining Hall
Posted on October 24, 2025
Syracuse University is a prestigious private research university located in Syracuse, New York. Established in 1870, the university is renowned for its extensive academic offerings, including more than 200 majors, 100 minors, and over 200 advanced degree programs spanning across its 13 schools and colleges. With a student body of over 15,000 undergraduates and 6,000 graduate students, Syracuse University embodies a rich history combined with a dynamic present, providing a quintessential college experience to students from all 50 U.S. states and 123 countries. The university prides itself on a global footprint and a diverse community that fosters an environment of academic excellence, cultural inclusivity, and community engagement. Beyond academics, Syracuse University is dedicated to supporting veterans, ensuring inclusive hiring practices, and cultivating a respectful and welcoming campus community for all.
This opportunity is for a Second Cook position at the Goldstein Dining Hall, part of Syracuse University’s Food Service Department within a unionized bargaining unit. The role is full-time, non-exempt, and offers a competitive pay range of $23.49 to $26.10 per hour. Scheduled work hours are from 2:30 pm to 11 pm on Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, with Tuesdays and Wednesdays off, although hours and days are subject to change.
As a Second Cook, the individual will play an essential role in preparing high-quality meals in a high-volume dining center environment. The position demands an advanced knowledge of cooking techniques acquired through formal training or equivalent work experience, along with significant experience in volume and institutional cooking. The Second Cook will be responsible for preparing various meals, including meats, vegetables, gravies, and baked goods like pancakes and biscuits. Attention to detail and timing are critical to ensure food items are ready for serving on schedule while maintaining the highest standards of sanitation, safety, and quality.
The role requires excellent mechanical abilities and the capacity to operate kitchen equipment such as grills, steamers, ovens, and food slicers. Physical endurance is necessary as the job entails standing for most of the shift, frequent bending, stooping, and lifting of heavy items up to 50 pounds regularly, with occasional lifting or pushing up to 250 pounds. The cook must also have the dexterity and coordination to handle kitchen utensils safely and efficiently. The work environment includes conditions of extreme heat and requires effective communication skills to collaborate with kitchen staff and manage operational tasks effectively.
Syracuse University's commitment to equal opportunity employment means the institution fosters a highly inclusive workplace, prohibiting discrimination on a wide range of protected characteristics, and encourages veterans and military-connected community members to apply. The surrounding Syracuse area offers a balanced lifestyle with a low cost of living and numerous cultural and recreational activities including theaters, museums, festivals, and access to outdoor sports. This position not only allows one to contribute meaningfully to the university’s dynamic campus life but also provides a stable and well-supported employment environment within an institution known for excellence, diversity, and community impact.
                - High school diploma or equivalent
 - 3 years of restaurant or institutional cooking experience
 - 1-2 years formal food service training or equivalent
 - mechanical abilities
 - valid driver's license
 - ability to stand for extended periods
 - ability to frequently bend, stoop, crouch, and walk
 - capability to lift and carry 30-50 pounds frequently
 - ability to lift up to 20 pounds overhead
 - ability to push and pull up to 250 pounds
 - ability to work in conditions of extreme heat
 - wrist and finger dexterity
 - strong communication skills
 - ability to follow recipes and instructions