Line Cook

Salary Range $21.00-$23.00/hour | Full-Time

Classification: Non-Exempt
Reports To: Executive Chef

Join our culinary team and begin your culinary career in a luxury hospitality environment. As a Line Cook at The Westgate Hotel, you will play an important role in supporting our chefs by preparing quality ingredients, assisting with food production, and maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who is passionate about cooking, eager to learn, and committed to delivering exceptional dining experiences.

The Westgate Hotel is a luxury hotel providing world-class elegance in hospitality. Devoted to a tradition of excellence, we are committed to creating memorable experiences through genuine service while caring for our employees, guests, and the communities we serve. Join us in this beautiful, rewarding environment in the heart of downtown San Diego.

What Your Day-to-Day Looks Like:

As a Line Cook, you will support daily kitchen operations by preparing ingredients, assisting with food production, and maintaining the highest standards of food quality, cleanliness, and safety. Working alongside experienced culinary professionals, you will develop your skills while contributing to an exceptional dining experience for our guests.

• Assist with food preparation including chopping, portioning, measuring, and labeling ingredients.
• Prepare basic menu items such as salads, garnishes, and cold dishes under the direction of senior culinary team members.
• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary workstations throughout each shift.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department standards.
• Assist with stocking, organizing, and rotating inventory using proper food storage procedures.
• Support line cooks and chefs by responding promptly to kitchen needs during service.
• Ensure proper food handling, storage, labeling, and temperature controls are maintained.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely while following all safety procedures.
• Maintain professional appearance and adherence to kitchen uniform standards.
• Contribute to a positive, team-oriented work environment while assisting with additional duties as assigned.

What We’re Looking For:

• Previous kitchen or food service experience preferred but not required.
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Food Handler Certification required or ability to obtain upon hire.
• Basic knife skills and a willingness to learn culinary techniques.
• Strong work ethic with a positive, team-oriented attitude.
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to food quality and cleanliness.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds with or without assistance.

• Flexible schedule including mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as business needs require.

What You Bring to the Team:

• Assists with food preparation while maintaining quality and consistency.
• Maintains a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment.
• Follows food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards at all times.
• Demonstrates reliability, professionalism, and a willingness to learn.
• Supports chefs and fellow culinary team members during food preparation and service.
• Maintains proper food storage, labeling, and inventory rotation procedures.
• Contributes to a collaborative team environment focused on exceptional guest experiences.
• Assists with additional duties as assigned to support culinary operations.

Benefits & Perks:

• Medical, Dental, Vision, and Voluntary Benefits
• 401(k) Retirement Plan
• Wellness and Employee Assistance Program
• PerkSpot Employee Discount Program
• Hotel Stay Discounts
• Employee Meals
• AquaVie Fitness & Spa Membership Discount
• Training and Career Growth Opportunities
• Discounts at Grand America Hotels & Resorts properties
• Convenient access to trolley station and downtown bus routes

Our Culture:

We believe in “People First and Guests Always.” We are committed to creating a supportive work environment where team members are valued, respected, and empowered to deliver memorable guest experiences.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout the shift.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds with or without assistance.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, squat, and frequently perform repetitive motions.
• Ability to work safely near hot cooking equipment and other heat sources.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment with varying temperatures, noise levels, and activity.

• Ability to remain active and mobile throughout the workday.

Additional Information:

This is a non-exempt hourly position. A flexible schedule is required based on business needs, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and overnight shifts.

Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

This job description is intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed. Duties and responsibilities may change at any time based on business needs.

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights (https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.