Job Description

Job Location: HARTFORD, CT 06103
Salary Range: $18.00 - $21.00 Hourly

Job Category: Restaurant - Food ServiceLINE COOK – MAX DOWNTOWN
Join the Max Hospitality Team!
Max Downtown, located in the heart of Hartford, CT, is seeking a skilled and dedicated Sauté/Pasta Line Cook with open availability to work nights and weekends to join our award-winning culinary team. The ideal candidate thrives in a high-volume, detail-oriented kitchen and is committed to executing refined, high-quality dishes with consistency and care. Open availability is required.
Max Hospitality is dedicated to providing a world-class dining experience with high-quality cuisine and exceptional service. We pride ourselves on our creativity, consistency, and guest-first mentality across all locations. We seek individuals who are passionate about hospitality and excited to grow with a forward-thinking, dynamic restaurant group.
Max Downtown is our flagship restaurant, renowned for its elevated steakhouse experience, award-winning wine list, and extensive whiskey collection. With a loyal clientele of business professionals and fine dining guests, Max Downtown consistently ranks among the top restaurants in the region. The right candidate will bring professionalism, attention to detail, and a deep understanding of culinary technique to our kitchen team.
Benefits:
- Competitive Pay
- Employee Discount on Meals
- Flexible Scheduling
- Opportunities for Growth and Advancement
- 401(k) with matching up to 4%
- Health insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid sick time
- Referral program
- Life, accident, critical illness & pet insurance
- Career development within the Max Hospitality group
Responsibilities:
- Execute all dishes on the sauté station with precision and consistency
- Prepare all mise en place including sauces, garnishes, and proteins ahead of service
- Maintain organization and cleanliness of your station before, during, and after service
- Collaborate with the sous chef and other line cooks to ensure smooth kitchen operations
- Assist with prep for other stations as needed
- Ensure all food meets Max Downtown’s exacting standards for taste, temperature, and plating
- Follow all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation guidelines in compliance with health regulations

QualificationsWhat We’re Looking For

Experience:
- At least 1–2 years of experience working the sauté station in a fine dining or high-volume kitchen REQUIRED
- Solid foundation in culinary technique, heat management, and flavor development
- Familiarity with high-end ingredients and precision cooking methods
- Ability to execute recipes consistently and maintain a clean, organized station under pressure
Skills and Qualities:
- Passionate about cooking and committed to excellence
- Self-motivated with strong attention to detail and a sense of urgency
- Team player with excellent communication skills
- Professional demeanor with a positive attitude and willingness to learn
- Ability to work cleanly, efficiently, and maintain a high standard of food quality and presentation
Diversity Creates a Healthy Atmosphere:
Max Hospitality is an Equal Employment Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, protected veteran status, disability status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, genetic information, or any other characteristic protected by law.
Applicants with criminal backgrounds are encouraged to apply.