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Garde Manger Cook / Cold Side Cook

Maple Tree Inn

Homewood, IL 60430 • $16.00 to $18.00 / hr • 9/26/2026

Job Description

Job Description
Benefits:
  • Air Conditioned Kitchen
  • Free food & snacks
  • Training & development

Position Overview


The Garde Manger Cook is a key member of our kitchen team, responsible for the preparation, assembly, and presentation of our cold-side menu offeringscurrently focusing on our desserts and saladsin accordance with restaurant standards.

This role requires a high degree of culinary competence, excellent attention to detail, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. Because this role heavily involves dessert preparation and presentation, our ideal candidate is an experienced baker who takes pride in quality and consistency.

Schedule & Hours


This position offers a fixed weekly schedule:

  • Wednesday: 3:00 PM – Close

  • Thursday: 3:00 PM – Close

  • Friday: 2:00 PM – Close

  • Saturday: 12:00 PM – Close

  • Sunday: 12:00 PM – Close

  • Monday & Tuesday: OFF

(Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled.)


Key Responsibilities


  • Cold Station Execution: Prepare, cook, assemble, and plate salads, desserts, and cold menu items according to established recipes and presentation guidelines.

  • Quality & Portion Control: Maintain strict portion control and culinary standards to ensure dish consistency, minimize waste, and manage costs.

  • Food Safety & Temperature Control: Routinely monitor food temperatures using calibrated thermometers; ensure proper cold storage and adherence to all health and sanitation codes.

  • Allergy & Dietary Compliance: Follow strict protocols for food allergies and special dietary requests to ensure guest safety.

  • Inventory Management: Monitor station inventory levels and communicate low stock promptly to management and front-of-house staff.

  • Communication & Collaboration: Work closely with the kitchen coordinator, chefs, and line staff to maintain smooth service flow and report any quality issues or service delays immediately.

  • Station Maintenance: Clean and sanitize station, tools, and equipment throughout and at the end of every shift. Complete additional supportive kitchen tasks as assigned.

Qualifications & Requirements


  • Experience: Proven kitchen experience, specifically in cold station work and baking.

  • Skills: Proficient knife skills, safe operation of commercial kitchen tools and equipment, and strong attention to detail.

  • Physical & Environmental Requirements:

    • Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during busy shifts.

    • Ability to safely lift and carry up to 50 lbs.

    • Comfortable working in close quarters, varied temperature zones, and a fast-paced, high-noise kitchen environment.

  • Soft Skills: Clear verbal and written communication skills; strong multitasking ability under pressure.

  • Certifications (Required within 21 days of hire):

    • Food Handler Certificate

    • Restaurant Sexual Harassment Training Certificate