Food Service Cook; Culinary Worker III

Food Service Cook (Culinary Worker III)

Eastern Illinois University invites applications for a Food Service Cook (Culinary Worker III) to work within the Panther Dining division of the Student Affairs department. This position is part of the AFSCME Local 981 bargaining unit.

Base hourly rate: $20.97 /hr. Shift differential of $1.05 for 2nd shift. Pay increases to $21.47 /hr. after successful probation. A free meal is provided during each shift.

Panther Dining operates two residential dining centers, a food court, catering, a convenience store, and a coffee shop. The cook prepares a wide variety of meals for the university community and guests, ensuring food safety, sanitation, and quality.

• Prepare food in a safe and sanitary manner for university customers.
• Manage timely preparation, set‑up, clean‑up, and service of all menu items.
• Maintain accurate kitchen records and verify compliance with safety and sanitation regulations.
• Supervise student workers in the Food Service Unit.
• Handle supplies and materials required for day‑to‑day operations, including setting up work areas and preparing next‑day menus.

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• One year of comparable food‑service work experience.
• Illinois Department of Public Health Food Handler Training Certification (ANSI accredited).

• Proficiency in large‑scale food preparation and use of kitchen equipment.
• Knowledge of sanitary procedures and cleaning protocols.
• Basic arithmetic and quality‑control testing knowledge.
• Excellent listening and detail orientation.
• Goal setting, organization, and planning abilities.
• Ability to read interpret regulations and maintain compliance.
• Meal planning for large groups.
• Supervision of kitchen staff.

Core hours include evenings and weekends.

• Medical, vision, and dental coverage.
• Participation in the State University Retirement System.
• Tuition waivers for employee and dependents.
• Paid time off: up to 12 holidays, vacation, and sick days.

Eastern Illinois University is an equal‑opportunity employer committed to diversity, inclusion, and belonging. We prohibit discrimination based on protected characteristics and encourage applicants with disabilities to request accommodations.

• Completed application.
• Resume.
• References.
• Transcripts.

Open until filled.

Human Resources:  | employment

Eastern Illinois University is an Affidavit of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, and welcomes applicants from all backgrounds.