Lead Cook

Dining and Hosptiality Services

Elevate Your Career at UCCS: Innovate, Inspire, and Impact in the Rockies!

Who We Are

The University of Colorado Colorado Springs (UCCS) is a premier educational institution that prides itself on academic excellence, research, and community engagement and is actively seeking a Lead Cook to join our team! UCCS is committed to academic excellence, professional development, and fostering an environment that supports innovation and student success.

At the base of the Rocky Mountains, Colorado Springs is captivated by its stunning landscapes, making it a paradise for nature lovers. This city is more than its scenery—a mosaic of history, arts, and a vibrant tech scene. We invite you to join a community that cherishes outdoor adventure as much as forward-thinking growth, an exceptional setting for both career and lifestyle.

Pay Range: $17.91 - $23.11 hourly. Compensation will be commensurate upon experience and qualifications. This position is Non-Exempt from the Fair Labor Standards Act (FLSA) overtime provisions.

Work Location: On-Site

Benefits at a Glance

At UCCS, our employees are our most valued asset. We're proud to offer:

• Generous Time Off: Enjoy 22 vacation days, 10 sick days, paid parental leave, 13 recognized holidays, and provisions for bereavement, jury duty, and FAMLI Leave.
• Robust Health Coverage: Our comprehensive medical plans cover preventative care at no cost, including a yearly mental health visit. Plus, benefit from affordable dental, vision plans, and competitive prescription drug prices.
• Financial & Retirement Benefits: Take advantage of our health savings, flexible spending accounts, and life and disability insurance. Plan for your future with our retirement options.
• Further Your Education: Avail twelve (12) waived credits per academic year for courses at any CU campus. We invest in your educational and professional growth.
• Wellness & More: From wellness programs aimed at achieving your best self to various additional benefits through CU Advantage, we prioritize well-being and holistic development.
• Want to know your total compensation? Use our calculator to get the complete picture!
  
  

Summary

The UCCS Lead Cook assists the Chef or Sous Chef in overseeing the preparation of quality food for the campus community. This will be primarily a Catering Lead Cook position, with opportunities to work in other Dining establishments on campus. The Dining and Hospitality Services operating principles are respect, trust, and growth.

This position is designated as essential services. The willingness and ability to work during campus closures due to weather or other factors, nights, weekends, and holidays are required. Must be committed to student employment and professional development opportunities for students.

Essential Functions

The duties and responsibilities of the position include, but are not limited to:

• Assist the Chef or Sous Chef in all aspects of culinary preparation and service, including the leadership and oversight of the Culinary Team.
• Manage day-to-day menu changes based on unprecedented product changes.
• Wash, chop, and mix ingredients like vegetables and meat. You may also measure and weigh ingredients and prepare cooking ingredients like soup stock.
• Bake, grill, steam, and boil meat, vegetables, fish, poultry, and other foods in a timely manner and according to recipe.
• Prioritize preparation and organization of staff and kitchen resources to ensure timely delivery and presentation of food.
• Garnish and arrange final dishes and serve food.
• Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, and utensils.
• Handle and store ingredients and food properly and ensure compliance with hygiene and safety standards.
• Assemble, disassemble, and clean kitchen equipment.
• Train Cooks in the preparation and handling of food and proper use of kitchen equipment.
• Train student employees in the preparation and handling of food and proper use of kitchen equipment.
• Assist in overseeing all phases of set up, service, and cleaning up in the culinary operation.
• Assist in storeroom duties such as receiving orders, rotating stock, and inventory.
• Assist in the testing and development of recipes.
  
  

Tentative Search Timeline

• Priority will be given to applications submitted by: March 22nd, 2026.
• Potential interview dates: March 23rd - March 27th, 2026.
• Potential start date: Early April 2026.
  
  

CU is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with all applicable federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. We are committed to creating a workplace where all individuals are treated with respect and dignity, and we encourage individuals from all backgrounds to apply, including protected veterans and individuals with disabilities.

In accordance with the Equal Pay for Equal Work Act, UCCS does not discriminate based on sex in our employment or compensation practices.

• Candidate must display a concrete knowledge of food safety, preparation, technique, and service.
• Leadership experience in a high-volume culinary environment is preferred.
• A valid ServSafe certification is preferred.
  
  

University Staff

Special Instructions to Applicants

Applications received before 03/22/2026 will receive priority consideration.

• Applications submitted through email or surface mail will not be considered. Please apply at cu.edu/cu-careers (job #: 38963).
• Upon request, please be prepared to provide five professional references (at least two previous/current supervisors), including their email contact information.
  
  

Job Category

Facilities/Labor,Trades & Crafts

Primary Location

Colorado Springs

Department

C0001 -- Colorado Springs Campus

Schedule

Full-time

Posting Date

Mar 17, 2026

Unposting Date

Ongoing

Posting Contact Name

Joshua Hedrick

Posting Contact Email

jhedric2@uccs.edu

Position Number

00803023