Find & Apply For Cook Jobs in Lava Hot Springs, Idaho

Join Our Team Chuckwagon Restaurant is seeking an experienced, motivated, and hands-on Head Cook to lead our kitchen. This is a leadership position for someone who takes pride in serving exceptional food, maintaining high standards, and leading by example. We are looking for someone with 10+ years of professional cooking experience , including experience leading a kitchen team in a fast-paced restaurant. This is not a desk job. Our Head Cook works alongside the team, coaches employees, maintains quality, and ensures every guest receives an outstanding meal. Responsibilities Lead all daily kitchen operations Cook during breakfast, lunch, and dinner service as needed Train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff Create a positive, respectful, and accountable work environment Ensure all food leaves the kitchen meeting Chuckwagon quality standards Maintain consistency in recipes, portion sizes, and presentation Schedule kitchen staff and manage labor costs Monitor food cost and minimize waste Order food and kitchen supplies Manage inventory and complete weekly counts Ensure all food is rotated and stored properly (FIFO) Maintain a clean, organized kitchen at all times Ensure compliance with Idaho health department regulations Oversee food safety and sanitation practices Maintain equipment and report maintenance issues promptly Assist with menu development and seasonal specials Work closely with restaurant management to improve operations Handle busy shifts calmly and professionally Step into any kitchen position when necessary Minimum Qualifications 10+ years of professional restaurant cooking experience Previous experience as a Head Cook, Kitchen Manager, Executive Chef, Sous Chef, or similar leadership role Strong leadership and communication skills Experience supervising employees Ability to coach rather than criticize Excellent organizational skills Knowledge of inventory management Knowledge of food cost control Strong understanding of kitchen sanitation Ability to multitask under pressure Reliable transportation Dependable attendance Authorized to work in the United States Preferred Qualifications ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification (or willingness to obtain) Experience in breakfast, burgers, steaks, comfort food, and American cuisine Experience with high-volume restaurants Experience creating schedules Experience ordering from food vendors Experience controlling food and labor costs Physical Requirements Stand for extended periods Lift up to 50 pounds Bend, twist, reach, and carry throughout the shift Work in hot kitchen environments Work weekends, evenings, and holidays as needed What We're Looking For The ideal candidate: Leads by example Has a strong work ethic Takes ownership of the kitchen Holds themselves and others accountable Maintains a clean and organized workspace Stays calm under pressure Communicates respectfully Wants to build a long-term career Takes pride in serving quality food every plate, every time Compensation & Benefits $60,000 annual salary Full-time position Paid vacation (if applicable) Employee meal discounts Stable year-round employment Opportunity to make a lasting impact on an established restaurant

Pay:

$60,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Referral program Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person