Risevoic
Cook
Company : Highgate
Location : San Francisco, CA, 94102
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 4 January 2026
Compensation Type
HourlyHighgate Hotels
Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $15 billion of assets under management and a global portfolio of more than 400 hotels spanning North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America.
With a 30-year track record as an innovator in the hospitality industry, this forward-thinking company provides expert guidance through all stages of the property cycle, from planning and development through recapitalization or disposition. Highgate continues to demonstrate success in developing a diverse portfolio of bespoke lifestyle hotel brands, legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts, featuring contemporary programming and digital acumen. The company utilizes industry-leading revenue management tools that efficiently identify and predict evolving market dynamics to drive outperformance and maximize asset value.
With an executive team of seasoned hospitality leaders and corporate offices worldwide, Highgate is a trusted partner for top ownership groups and major hotel brands. www.highgate.com
Location
Overview
The Cook is responsible for preparing all food items, based on standardized recipes, for the Restaurants, Room Service, Employee Cafeteria and Banquets, while maintaining the highest standards to produce an appealing and appetizing product. He/she is also responsible for ensuring the cleanliness, sanitation and safety in the kitchen and work areas while minimizing waste and maximizing cost/production ratio.
Responsibilities
- Maintain cleanliness and organization of all storage areas.
- Complete necessary food and station preparation prior to the opening of the restaurant in order to ensure that guests are served promptly and efficiently during the Restaurant and Room Service operating hours.
- Prepare and display buffet food items according to the hotel standards.
- Recognize quality standards in fresh vegetables, fish, and dairy and meat products.
- Maintain clean and sanitary environment with knowledge of proper handling, storage, and sanitation.
- Prepare food for Banquets, ad required, following specifications on Banquet Event Orders.
- Prepare and service food for the Employee Cafeteria as specified by the Chef or Kitchen Supervisor.
- Prepare all foods following hotel standard recipes. Preparation of specials will be under the direction of the Chef or Kitchen Supervisor.
- Breakdown buffets and kitchen line, storing food and equipment properly at the end of each meal period.
- Work banquet food station as scheduled by the Chef or Kitchen Supervisor.
- Know the location and operation of all fire extinguishing equipment.
- Practice safe work habits at all times to avoid possible injury to self or other employees.
- Use Production Charts as specified by hotel’s standards.
- Be able to support any position in the Kitchen that is in need of help.
- Follow all Health Department and Company regulations in regards to food and storage standards and safety.
- Be able to operate and maintain cleanliness of all kitchen equipment.
- Maintain a “Clean As You Go” policy.
- Assist in storage and rotation of food items according to hotel procedures.
- Sign keys out and back in under supervision as needed.
Qualifications
- High School diploma or equivalent and/or experience in a hotel or a related field preferred.
- Culinary experience required.
- Flexible and long hours sometimes required.
- Medium work - Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 20 pounds of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
- Ability to stand during entire shift
- Ability to withstand temperature variations both hot and cold.
- Have thorough knowledge of menus and the preparation required, according to hotel standards.
- Proficiency in the following cooking techniques: charbroiling, poaching, deep-frying, sauté, braising, roasting and par-cooking.
- Knowledge of herbs and spices and proper use of each.
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Frequently asked questions
Cooks working in San Francisco often receive higher hourly wages than those in many other U.S. cities, reflecting the area's cost of living and competitive hospitality market. Expect hourly rates to range between $16 and $22, influenced by experience and establishment prestige.
Locally, certifications like ServSafe Food Handler and culinary diplomas from accredited schools enhance a cook’s prospects. Hotels in San Francisco value these credentials as proof of safety knowledge and culinary skill, which aligns with stringent health regulations and guest expectations.
Mastery of diverse techniques such as charbroiling, poaching, sautéing, and braising is essential. These methods enable cooks to prepare a wide variety of dishes efficiently while maintaining quality, which is critical when servicing multiple outlets like banquets, room service, and restaurants.
Highgate's cooks balance multiple preparation areas including buffets, banquets, and employee cafeterias, requiring flexibility and multitasking. The focus on standardized recipes combined with dynamic event needs means cooks must adapt quickly while upholding consistency and safety.
Highgate’s global presence and innovative hotel portfolio provide cooks exposure to a range of culinary styles and advanced kitchen technologies. Employees often benefit from professional growth through diverse assignments and access to leading revenue management tools influencing operations.
Highgate enforces rigorous sanitation protocols aligned with local health codes. Cooks receive training on proper food handling, storage, and cleaning procedures, and must consistently apply a 'clean as you go' policy to maintain kitchen safety and guest satisfaction.
Search trends highlight questions about nearby openings, work schedules, skill requirements, and pay rates. Many job seekers also ask about advancement paths in local kitchens and how to balance long hours with San Francisco's lifestyle.
While formal training is preferred, Highgate often values hands-on experience and a willingness to learn. New cooks can gain skills on the job, especially if they demonstrate reliability, a strong work ethic, and adaptability to fast-paced kitchen environments.
Expect to stand for entire shifts and handle moderate lifting, sometimes up to 50 pounds. The role requires endurance to withstand hot and cold kitchen conditions while maintaining precision and speed during food preparation.
Demand for skilled cooks remains robust due to San Francisco's vibrant hospitality industry, but competition is also high given the city's culinary appeal. Candidates with versatile cooking techniques and food safety certifications tend to stand out in local job searches.