Job Description

Job Location Lawrence, KS 66045 Position Type Full Time

Department: KU Dining
Reports To: Supervisor at Courtside
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: The anticipated pay for this position starts at $15.00. The final rate will be determined based on qualifications, experience, education, and years within the job or industry.

Schedule: Full-time

Why You’ll Love Working Here

At KU Dining, our mission is to create an unparalleled dining experience for our guests, foster a culture of excellence among our well-trained and empowered staff, and provide inviting spaces that reflect the warmth of the KU community. We strive to set a standard that goes beyond nourishment—creating an environment where every meal becomes a highlight of the KU experience.

We employ both full-time and part-time team members to serve the University of Kansas’ diverse dining needs. While our operations are large and fast-paced, every role and every employee makes a meaningful impact.

At KU Dining, we strive to provide a strong work-life balance and usually do—though certain busy periods may call for additional hours or longer days. Even so, our team members enjoy reliable schedules, meaningful time off, and a collaborative atmosphere. You’ll take pride in creating great food for KU students and have opportunities to grow your skills and career.

What We’re Looking For

We’re looking for a Cook who takes pride in culinary quality, teamwork, and exceptional service. This role prepares and cooks menu items according to established recipes and guidelines, maintains cleanliness and sanitation standards, and supports the overall success of KU Dining operations.

You’ll thrive here if you’re dependable, friendly, adaptable, and committed to providing excellent service.

Duties & Responsibilities of All KU Memorial Union Positions

1. Adhere to University and KU Memorial Union policies and procedures.
2. Support the KU Memorial Unions’ lines of effort, initiatives, and End State, and uphold the department’s mission and core values: community, dignity, empowerment, excellence, innovation, and safety.
3. Follow the 7 Team Principles: competence, creating cohesive teams through mutual trust, creating shared understanding, setting clear leader intent, written/verbal communication, disciplined initiative, and risk management.
4. Demonstrate a positive, solution-oriented attitude and collaborate with colleagues to foster a respectful, productive work environment.
5. Exhibit professional decorum while representing the KU Memorial Unions and the University, both within the workplace and around campus or in the community.

What You’ll Do

Food Preparation & Knowledge

• Prepare, cook, and properly store food following supervisor direction, recipes, and food safety regulations.

Quality Assurance

• Maintain a clean, organized workspace using a “clean as you go” approach.
  
  - Ensure consistency and quality by following recipes precisely.

Problem-Solving & Safety

• Follow all food safety protocols including temperature logs, correct storage, sanitation practices, and hygiene standards.

Customer Service

• Deliver positive guest experiences by anticipating needs and addressing issues promptly.
• Contribute to a friendly, welcoming dining environment.

Communication

• Maintain clear, respectful communication with supervisors and coworkers.
• Ask questions and raise concerns promptly and professionally.

Teamwork & Cooperation

• Collaborate with coworkers, assist on shared assignments, and contribute to team success.

Versatility

• Support other stations or work areas as needed.
• Assist with stocking, cleaning, and general kitchen and dining operations.

Supervision

• Report to assigned supervisor.
• May assist in training part-time or less-experienced staff.

What’s Required to Be Considered

• High School Diploma or GED equivalent
• At least one year of experience in commercial food service preparation and handling

The Ideal Candidate

• Previous food service experience in a college or institutional dining setting
• ServSafe certification or equivalent food safety credential

Physical Requirements

• This position requires regular standing, bending, stooping, extensive walking, and lifting up to 50 pounds.
• Must be able to work on your feet for extended periods and follow all food safety and sanitation standards.

We’ve Got You Covered

KU Dining offers great benefits for our team members, including:

• Paid sick leave, vacation, and holidays
• Health, dental, vision, and life insurance
• Retirement plan with a 7.5% employer match
• Two months of paid parental leave
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
• Meal benefits and additional KU employee perks

Ready to Apply?

Ready to join the KU Dining team?

Apply online at www.union.ku.edu/jobs and include your resume.

Questions? Reach out to unionhr@ku.edu for assistance.

Qualifications