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Line Cook

Castle & Key Distillery

Frankfort, KY 40601 • $16 / yr • 8/16/2026

Job Description

Job Description

Castle & Key is expanding our on-site culinary program and is seeking a talented, dedicated part-time line cook to support our Chefs in delivering an exceptional guest dining experience. The line cook position will play a key supporting role in daily kitchen operations, food production, and the ongoing development of our culinary programstarting with Burgers and Neapolitan-style pizza and evolving into a broader, seasonally inspired menu.

A line cook at Castle & Key is expected to reflect everything the brand representsthoughtfulness, luxury, approachability, excellence, and modern hospitality rooted in heritage. This individual must be reliable, detail-oriented, and passionate about delivering high-quality food with consistency, creativity, and care.

Culinary Operations & Execution

Prepare and cook menu items to the highest standards of quality, flavor, and presentation including Neapolitan-style pizza, salads, burgers, and seasonal offerings.

Support daily kitchen operations including preparation, production, service flow, and close-down.

Set up and stock stations with all necessary supplies before each service.

Follow recipes, portioning guidelines, and plating specifications consistently.

Help maintain a 25–30% food cost target through careful portioning, inventory awareness, and waste reduction.

Assist in the proper operation, care, and cleaning of culinary equipment

Ensure full compliance with health and safety standards, including sanitation and food handling practices.

Program Development & Growth

Support the culinary team in preparing and testing new menu items and seasonal specials.

Follow and help maintain SOPs for all kitchen functions as the culinary program scales.

Contribute to the ongoing organization, efficiency, and cleanliness of the culinary space.

Assist with preparation and execution of special events, VIP experiences, and on-site activations.

Guest Experience & Collaboration

Work closely with the Sous Chef, Executive Chef, and Hospitality teams to deliver seamless service to all guests.

Communicate effectively with FOH staff to ensure smooth coordination during service hours.

Support the execution of event menus, pop-ups, and seasonal food-driven initiatives.

Bring a positive, guest-first attitude to every interaction and service moment.

Team Support

Collaborate with fellow cooks and culinary assistants, especially during peak season.

Help foster a positive, collaborative, high-performance kitchen culture rooted in Castle & Key values.

Demonstrate focus and composure during peak service periods or unexpected challenges.

Take direction well and support the team in upholding quality and consistency at all times.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

Professional kitchen experience is preferred but not requiredwe are willing to train motivated candidates eager to learn.

A genuine interest in developing culinary skills, strong technique, and a commitment to consistent food quality.

Comfort working in (or willingness to learn in) a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment.

Passion for seasonal ingredients, local sourcing, and high-quality food.

Bonus skills: experience with pizza, baking, pastry, pasta making, or specialty diets.

Skills & Personal Attributes

Strong attention to detail and commitment to cleanliness, organization, and food safety.

Positive, team-first attitude and eagerness to learn, grow, and take initiative within the brand.

Good communication skills with the ability to collaborate across departments.

Ability to work efficiently in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment.

Ability to stand for extended periods and lift heavy objects and equipment as needed.

Dependable team player who takes pride in supporting the team's shared goals and upholding high standards.

Work Environment

Hot, humid, and high-volume kitchen environment.

Requires standing for extended periods.

Requires lifting heavy objects and working with large equipment.

Team-oriented, hospitality-driven culture with opportunities for growth and advancement.