Job Description

Join Our Campus Community!

Thank you for your interest in joining the University of Wyoming.  Our community thrives on the contributions of talented and driven individuals who share in our mission, vision, and values. If your expertise and experience align with the goals of our institution, we would be thrilled to hear from you. We encourage you to apply and become a valued member of our vibrant campus community today!

Why Choose Us?

At the University of Wyoming, we value our employees and invest in their success. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to support your health, financial security, and work-life balance. Benefits include:

• Generous Retirement Contributions The State contributes 14.94% of your gross salary, and you contribute 3.68%, totaling 18.62% toward your retirement plan.

• Exceptional Health & Prescription Coverage Enjoy access to medical, dental, and vision insurance with competitive employer contributions, that include 4 deductible options to suit your needs

• Paid Time Off Benefit from ample vacation, sick leave, paid holidays, and paid winter closure.

• Tuition Waiver Employees and eligible dependents can take advantage of tuition waivers, supporting continuous education and professional growth.

• Wellness and Employee Assistance Programs Stay healthy with wellness initiatives, counseling services, and mental health resources.

At the University of Wyoming, we are committed to creating a supportive and enriching workplace. To learn more about what we offer, please refer to UW’s Benefits Summary

Join Our Culinary Team at the University! No Experience Needed – We Will Train You!

Are you passionate about cooking but don’t have prior experience? No problem! The University is excited to offer entry-level culinary positions with on-the-job training to help you develop your skills. Plus, we offer a career ladder that allows you to grow from Cook I to Cook III, gaining new responsibilities and opportunities for advancement along the way!

Growth Opportunities:

• Cook I: Start with entry-level kitchen tasks under direct supervision. No experience? No problem! You’ll learn and develop your culinary skills on the job.
• Cook II: With more experience, you’ll take on general responsibilities and help mentor newer cooks while continuing to hone your skills.
• Cook III: As an expert, you’ll independently handle complex cooking tasks, train and mentor others, and have more leadership responsibilities.

Whether you’re just starting your culinary career or looking to grow with us, this is a fantastic opportunity to gain experience, develop your skills, and advance within the University’s culinary team. Apply today and start your career with us – we’ll train you every step of the way!

JOB TITLE:

Cook I - Dining Center

JOB PURPOSE:

Perform entry-level general and routine cooking and kitchen tasks under direct supervision, ensuring the smooth operation of the kitchen.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Preparation and Setup:
  • Gather mis-en-place for recipes as directed.
  • Assist with culinary prep work for supervisors and chefs.
  • Measure or weigh ingredients in recipes, scaling portions as required.
  • Set up the service line before meal service.
• Cooking and Serving:
  • Perform cooking tasks as assigned under supervision, following established standards.
  • Assist in serving food during meal periods.
  • Prepare leftover food for storage according to instructions.
• Cleaning and Maintenance:
  • Clean and sanitize the workstation regularly.
  • Rinse and wash pots, pans, and utensils.
  • Clear and clean the service line after meal service.
  • Clean walk-in coolers and freezers according to institutional standards.
  • Maintain a safe, clean, and sanitary work environment.
• Equipment and Inventory:
  • Notify supervisors of food and supply needs.
  • Report any equipment malfunctions to supervisors.
  • Safely use and clean kitchen equipment and utensils.

SUPPLEMENTAL FUNCTIONS:

• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.
• Attend and participate in training and other professional development activities.
• Participate in performance-related goal setting and achievement to meet personal and organizational goals and objectives.

COMPETENCIES:

• Ability to Learn
• Adaptability
• Attention to Detail
• Consistency
• Safety Awareness
• Teamwork
• Work Standard
• Work Tempo

WORK AUTHORIZATION REQUIREMENTSThis position provides vital support to campus customers and requires the successful candidate be available to work on campus.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

Experience: No prior experience required; training provided

Required licensure, certification, registration, or other requirements: None

DESIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

• Willingness to learn.
• Basic customer service skills.
• Neat and clean appearance.
• Understanding food safety. *
• Proper use of chemicals for cleaning. *
• Knife skills and safe use of knives. *
• Knowledge of different pans, their sizes, and proper use. *
• Familiarity with kitchen setup, including dry storage, refrigerators, freezers, and cooking stations. *
• Ability to operate and clean sinks and dish machines. *
• Professional interaction with staff. *
• Ability to read and write effectively.
• Ability to follow instructions accurately.
• Use basic math for quantity determination.
• Obtain a Food Handler’s Certificate. *

WORKING CONDITIONS:

Standard kitchen and food service environment with regular exposure to heat from ovens, grills, and stoves, as well as cold from storage facilities. Maintain the same position for extended periods, such as while cutting vegetables or working behind stations. Exposure to various hazards associated with food service and preparation as expected. May be required to lift objects up to 50 lbs.

This position will remain open until filled. Complete applications received by 3/31/2026 will receive full consideration.

This position has been deemed essential as addressed in the University of Wyoming’s Employee HandbookEmployees in essential positions may be required to work during emergency closures and winter closure based on the nature of their job duties and the reasons for the closure.

DISTINGUISHING FEATURES:

Cook I: Perform entry-level general and routine cooking and kitchen tasks under direct supervision, ensuring the smooth operation of the kitchen.

Cook II: Perform general and routine cooking and kitchen tasks under general supervision, ensuring the smooth operation of the kitchen. May train and mentor lower-level cooks.

Cook III: Independently perform general and routine cooking and kitchen tasks under limited supervision, ensuring the smooth operation of the kitchen. Train, mentor and supervise lower-level cooks.

REQUIRED MATERIALS:

Complete the online application.

HIRING STATEMENT/EEO:  

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or status as a protected veteran. In compliance with the ADA Amendments Act (ADAAA), if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position, please contact us at 307-766-2377 or email  jobapps@uwyo.edu 

ABOUT LARAMIE:

The University of Wyoming is located in Laramie, a town of 30,000 in the heart of the Rocky Mountain West. The state of Wyoming continues to invest in its university, helping to make it a leader in academics, research, and outreach. The university has state-of-the-art facilities in many areas and the community provides the advantages of a major university.

Located in a high mountain valley near the Colorado border, Laramie offers both outstanding recreational opportunities and close proximity to Colorado’s Front Range, a bustling group of metropolitan cities including Denver, Boulder, and Fort Collins. This beautiful mountain landscape offers outdoor enjoyment in all seasons, with over 300 days of sunshine annually. For more information about the region, please visit http://visitlaramie.org/