Culinarian (Part Time, Variable)

Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture ParkJob: CulinarianLocation: Grand Rapids, MISchedule: Part-Time, Hourly Non-Exempt | Varies, including nights, weekends, and holidays based on event schedule & operational needsCreate Exceptional Culinary ExperiencesAt Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park, food is an important part of the guest experience. From weddings and concerts to private events and seasonal dining, our culinary team delivers high-quality food that complements the beauty and creativity of our environment. We are seeking a Culinarian who takes pride in preparing exceptional food, maintaining strong kitchen standards, and supporting a collaborative culinary team. This role helps bring our menus to life through thoughtful preparation, consistency, and attention to detail.Why This Role MattersThe Culinarian ensures every guest receives food that reflects our commitment to quality and hospitality. Through precise preparation, safe food handling, and teamwork with front-of-house and back-of-house staff, this role helps create memorable dining experiences across our campus.Whether supporting concessions, catering events, or kitchen production, the Culinarian helps ensure service runs smoothly and every plate meets our standards.What You’ll DoPrepare and Present High-Quality FoodPrepare, cook, assemble, and plate menu items according to established recipes and standardsMaintain consistency in food quality, temperature, portioning, and presentationEnsure orders are prepared accurately and delivered efficiently during serviceSupport Culinary OperationsSet up, maintain, and break down kitchen workstations for concessions, catering, or line serviceAssist with food production for daily operations, special events, and catering functionsRestock ingredients and supplies to keep service running smoothlyMaintain Safety and Sanitation StandardsFollow food safety, sanitation, and HACCP guidelines at all timesEnsure proper labeling, storage, and handling of food productsMaintain clean, organized kitchen workspaces before, during, and after serviceCollaborate Across the Culinary TeamCommunicate clearly with front-of-house and kitchen team members during serviceAssist with concessions or catering operations during busy periodsSupport dishwashing or ware washing responsibilities when needed to maintain workflowAdapt to Event and Campus OperationsWork across multiple kitchen environments including prep kitchens, concessions, and catering areasSupport indoor and outdoor events as neededAssist with event setup, food preparation, and service execution What You Bring1+ year of culinary, food preparation, concessions, catering, or food service experience required2+ years of culinary or hospitality experience preferredStrong knowledge of food preparation techniques and kitchen safety practicesAbility to maintain quality and organization in fast-paced kitchen environmentsServSafe certification (or ability to obtain within required timeframe) preferredAbility to stand for extended periods and lift 20–50 lbsFlexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidaysMust be at least 18 years of ageWhat Makes This Opportunity UniqueWork in a nationally recognized cultural destinationContribute to dining experiences for weddings, concerts, exhibitions, and special eventsJoin a collaborative culinary team focused on quality and hospitalityFlexible scheduling aligned with event seasonsCompetitive hourly pay and employee perksOur ValuesWe seek team members who embody:Welcoming. Excellence. Innovation. Integrity. Stewardship.If you enjoy preparing high-quality food and contributing to memorable guest experiences in a dynamic culinary environment, we would love to meet you.As part of our onboarding process, all new hires are required to complete our background check.Frederik Meijer Gardens & Sculpture Park is an Equal Opportunity Employer.We believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace.