Line Cook | Part-Time | Waterloo Convention Center
Company : Dallas Convention Center
Location : Waterloo, IA, 50701
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 31 December 2025
Oak View Group
Oak View Group is the global leader in venue development, management, and premium hospitality services for the live event industry. Offering an unmatched, 360-degree solution set for a collection of world-class owned venues and a client roster that includes the most influential, highest attended arenas, convention centers, music festivals, performing arts centers, and cultural institutions on the planet.
Position Summary
The Line Cook is responsible for preparing foods to be served to guests throughout the venue. The Line Cook will often have direct contact with the public working in areas such as a buffet line slicing meats or preparing dishes to order. The Line Cook must maintain excellent attendance and be available to work events as scheduled per business need.
This role pays an hourly rate of $13 to $16.
For PT roles: Benefits: 401(k) savings plan and 401(k) matching.
EVERGREEN ROLE: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis; there is no application deadline.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for providing high quality, fresh food products in a timely manner for delivery to guests.
- Prepares hot and cold foods following company recipes and portioning requirements.
- Participates as a team player with specific responsibilities as related to preparation, excellent service and delivery of product.
- Responsible for reporting any maintenance required for kitchen equipment.
- Maintains sanitation, health and safety standards in work areas.
- Responsible for observing and testing foods to ensure proper cooking.
- Responsible for portioning, arranging and garnishing food plates for delivery to guests.
- Responsible for consulting with Executive Chef, Sous Chef or Kitchen Supervisor to plan menus and estimate expected food consumption.
- Must show demonstrated ability to meet the company standard for excellent attendance.
Qualifications
- Previous cook or prep cook experience
- Able to operate standard kitchen equipment to including the broiler, steamer, convection oven, mixer, meat slicer and chef knife.
- Ability to communicate with employees, co-workers, volunteers, management staff and guests in a clear, business-like and respectful manner which focuses on generating a positive, enthusiastic and cooperative work environment.
- Ability to speak, read and write in English.
- Ability to work well in a team-oriented, fast-paced, event-driven environment.
- Possess valid food handling certificate if required by state and federal regulations
- ServSafe preferred
Strengthened by our Differences. United to Make a Difference
At OVG, we understand that to continue positively disrupting the sports and live entertainment industry, we need a diverse team to help us do it. We also believe that inclusivity drives innovation, strengthens our people, improves our service, and raises our excellence. Our success is rooted in creating environments that reflect and celebrate the diverse communities in which we operate and serve, and this is the reason we are committed to amplifying voices from all different backgrounds.
Equal Opportunity Employer
Oak View Group is committed to equal employment opportunity. We will not discriminate against employees or applicants for employment on any legally recognized basis (“protected class”) including, but not limited to veteran status, uniform service member status, race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, physical or mental disability, genetic information or any other protected class under federal, state, or local law.
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Frequently asked questions
Waterloo's food service scene is growing steadily, with part-time line cook roles becoming more frequent. However, competition is moderate due to a mix of local eateries and event venues. Candidates with flexible schedules and relevant kitchen skills typically have an advantage in securing positions here.
In Iowa, having a valid food handling certificate is often required for line cook positions, especially in large venues like convention centers. Certifications like ServSafe are highly valued, reflecting adherence to state and federal food safety regulations and boosting employability.
Line cooks at Waterloo Convention Center focus heavily on event-driven food prep, meaning they must handle high-volume service swiftly and maintain presentation quality. Unlike typical restaurants, this role demands adaptability to buffet lines and direct guest interactions during large live events.
Starting part-time at Dallas Convention Center offers exposure to a dynamic hospitality environment, which can open doors to full-time roles and advancement within Oak View Group's network. Demonstrating reliability and culinary skill increases chances for growth in this fast-paced industry.
Proficiency with broilers, steamers, convection ovens, mixers, and meat slicers is essential for this role. Mastery of these tools ensures smooth preparation of diverse dishes under time constraints typical of event catering at Dallas Convention Center.
Oak View Group offers part-time line cooks benefits such as a 401(k) savings plan with matching contributions, which is a notable perk in hospitality. This reflects their commitment to employee well-being even for non-full-time staff in vibrant event settings.
Line cooks here typically earn between $13 and $16 per hour, aligning with regional hospitality pay scales. This range reflects the skill level required and the demands of working in a busy convention center environment.
Prospective candidates should factor in the event-driven nature of the work, which may require evening or weekend shifts. Additionally, Waterloo's public transit options and traffic patterns can influence commute times and scheduling flexibility.
At Dallas Convention Center, the pace is often busier due to large-scale events, demanding teamwork and quick adaptability. This contrasts with smaller restaurants where service rhythms may be steadier, emphasizing the venue's fast-paced and collaborative environment.
Employers prioritize punctuality, teamwork, and the ability to maintain high food quality under pressure. Clear communication skills and familiarity with kitchen safety protocols also weigh heavily during the hiring process at Dallas Convention Center.