Job Title: Cook

Department: Food & Beverage – State and Lake Chicago Tavern (SLCT)
Reports To: Executive Sous Chef
Location: theWit Hotel, Chicago, IL

Position Summary

The Cook at State and Lake Chicago Tavern (SLCT) plays a vital role in delivering an exceptional dining experience consistent with theWit’s commitment to quality and creativity. This position is responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting menu items in accordance with established recipes, portion standards, and brand presentation guidelines while ensuring the highest standards of food safety and kitchen cleanliness.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Prepare and cook menu items in alignment with SLCT’s modern American tavern concept and Executive Chef’s direction.
Ensure consistency and quality across all dishes served, maintaining attention to flavor, texture, and presentation.
Set up and stock stations with all necessary ingredients and equipment before service.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of workstations, kitchen tools, and food storage areas.
Follow all food safety and sanitation standards in accordance with local health codes and hotel policies.
Safely handle kitchen equipment, knives, and other tools.
Assist with receiving, labeling, and storing deliveries while monitoring product freshness and rotation.
Support kitchen teammates and work collaboratively to meet service times and guest satisfaction goals.
Contribute ideas for improving menu offerings, prep processes, and culinary innovation.
Perform other duties as assigned by the Executive or Sous Chef.

Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent required; culinary degree or certification preferred.
Minimum 1–2 years of professional cooking experience, ideally in a high-volume restaurant or hotel environment.
Strong understanding of various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and procedures.
Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-driven setting.
Excellent attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high culinary standards.
Flexible schedule with availability to work mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.

Physical Requirements

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Frequent lifting or carrying of up to 50 lbs.
Exposure to heat, steam, and kitchen noise typical of a busy restaurant environment.

About State and Lake Chicago Tavern (SLCT)

Located in the heart of the Loop, State and Lake Chicago Tavern is housed within theWit Hotel, a luxury property known for its innovative design, vibrant atmosphere, and exceptional service. SLCT offers an elevated tavern dining experience with locally inspired fare crafted from the finest seasonal ingredients. Our culinary team takes pride in creating dishes that are bold, approachable, and distinctly Chicago.

Compensation and Benefits

$22.00 per hour

We offer a comprehensive benefits package designed to support the health, well-being, and financial security of our employees. Our offerings include:

Medical Plans: Choice of three plans to meet your healthcare needs.
Dental Plans: Two options for dental coverage.
Vision Insurance: Coverage for routine eye care and eyewear.
Paid Time Off (PTO): To support work-life balance.
Accident/Hospital Indemnity/Critical Illness plans (new for 2026).
401(k) Retirement Plan: Plan for your future with employer contributions.
Flexible Spending Account (FSA): Pre-tax savings for healthcare and dependent care expenses.
Life and AD&D Insurance: Employer-provided coverage with additional voluntary options.
Short-Term Disability (STD): Employer-provided coverage to support you during temporary disability.
Voluntary Long-Term Disability (LTD): Additional protection for extended disability.
Commuter Benefits: Save on transit and parking expenses.
Pet Insurance: Options to support your furry family members.
Hilton travel discounts and employee room rates worldwide
Career growth and training opportunities
Access to wellness programs and employee appreciation events

Please note that eligibility for certain benefits may vary depending on your employment status. Detailed information, including plan summaries and enrollment instructions, will be provided during onboarding or upon request. This summary complies with applicable state laws and is subject to change based on legislative updates or company policies.

SLCT Cook - FT

Job Description