Line Cook – Government Cafeteria
Location: Washington, DC
Job type: Full-time
Pay: $21–$24 per hour, depending on experience
Schedule: Shifts scheduled within 5:30 a.m.–3:00 p.m., Monday–Friday
We’re hiring an experienced line cook for a busy government cafeteria. This role requires someone who can prepare a variety of foods, keep the breakfast and lunch hot bars stocked, and work confidently at both the grill and deli stations. Our team takes an all-hands-on-deck approach during service.
Responsibilities
- Help prepare a nine-item breakfast hot bar, ready for service at 6:30 a.m.
- After breakfast setup, make breakfast sandwiches and omelets at the grill or prep and cook lunch, depending on staffing needs.
- Have lunch food ready for service at 11:00 a.m.
- From 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., keep the hot bar and salad bar stocked without gaps in service, or operate the burger grill or deli station as assigned.
- Check food levels and begin refills before pans run empty.
- Step in to help other stations when needed.
- Clean and close every station and work area you use before the end of your shift, including equipment, counters, utensils, and surrounding areas.
- Follow food safety, sanitation, and company procedures.
Qualifications
- Experience in a buffet-style cafeteria, high-volume kitchen, or similar food service setting.
- Strong kitchen prep skills and the ability to cook a variety of breakfast and lunch foods.
- Experience working both grill and deli stations.
- Ability to adjust priorities and support other areas during busy service.
- Current ServSafe certification; certificate must be provided before employment begins.
- Authorization to work in the United States and ability to complete the required employment eligibility verification process.
Federal holidays are generally off, and weekends are generally free. Occasional weekend work may be needed for catering events.
We operate a government cafeteria in Washington, DC, serving breakfast and lunch to building employees and guests. Our team prepares fresh meals across hot bar, grill, deli, and catering services. Backed by a 15-year cafeteria contract, we’re growing our operation and creating opportunities for team members to take on more responsibility as we expand.
