Cook III | Part-Time | Benchmark International Arena
Company : Dallas Convention Center
Location : Tampa, FL, 33602
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 9 January 2026
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
Step into the role of Cook III, where you'll take the lead in driving culinary excellence in the kitchen. You'll oversee multiple stations, ensure smooth prep operations, and help deliver large-scale service with skill and precision. Your expertise will set the standard for food quality, safety, and team performance as you'll work closely with the Sous & Exectuive Chefs.
Beyond culinary expertise, you'll guide and support a team of cooks, helping them reach their full potential. Whether perfecting execution or energizing the crew during a busy rush, you lead with confidence, delivering unforgettable flavors that keep guests coming back for more.
This role will pay an hourly rate of $20.50-$21.00.
Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) savings plan and 401(k) matching.
EVERGREEN ROLE: Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis; there is no application deadline
About the Venue
From 2011-2013, Benchmark International Arena had more than $62 million in improvements that have clearly revolutionized the industry and made it the premier entertainment venue in the state of Florida.
With a wide array of venues spread throughout the United States, it can be difficult to find one that distinguishes itself from the others. That is not the case with the renovated Benchmark International Arena, Florida’s premier entertainment venue and home of the three-time Stanley Cup champion, Tampa Bay Lightning.
Boasting unique features like lightning-throwing Tesla coils, the 11,000 square-foot Budweiser Biergarten with incredible views of the city and a massive five-manual, 105-rank digital pipe organ, Benchmark International Arena consistently ranks among the very best venues in the United States. The best part? This is only the beginning.
Responsibilities
- Possesses the advanced culinary understanding of plating techniques and standards.
- Display continued growth and initiative to improve upon culinary skills on a day-to-day basis by seeking knowledge from those in higher positions.
- Can create meals and prepare food items according to a recipe with little to no assistance.
- Can perform all opening and closing responsibilities within the kitchen independently
- Possess the knowledge and ability of how to operate, clean, and maintain all pieces of kitchen equipment including the Dishwasher, Stove Top, Tilt Skillets, Grills, Rotating Oven, Fryers, Slicer, etc.
- Follows and re-enforces policies and procedures regarding the proper handling, sanitation, storage and dispensing of food and beverage products based on the State Food Handlers Certification standards.
- Always adhere to the Equipment and Safety standards of clothing and appearance when always working near and when handling food.
- Displays knowledge of culinary preparation skills and teaches others proper preparation and food presentation
- Participate as a team player with specific responsibilities related to preparation, excellent service and delivery of products.
- Responsible for reporting any maintenance required for kitchen equipment.
- Responsible for observing and testing foods to ensure proper cooking.
- Responsible for portioning, arranging and garnishing food plates for delivery to guests.
- Assists in the control of food and labor costs
- Conducts regular inspections of all locations to ensure cleanliness and maintenance meet company standards.
- Assists with monthly inventory.
- Participate as a team player with specific responsibilities related to preparation, excellent service and delivery of products.
- Responsible for reporting any maintenance required for kitchen equipment.
Qualifications
Minimum of 3 to 5 years of progressive culinary experience in a high-volume or upscale kitchen environment
Proficiency in a wide range of cooking techniques, including sautéing, grilling, roasting, and plating
Demonstrated ability to lead and train kitchen staff, with strong organizational and communication skills
Proven track record of maintaining consistency, quality, and efficiency under pressure
Valid Food Handler’s Certification (required)
- Ability to work weekdays and weekends, with availability for some mornings, noon, and evenings shifts.
- 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 work well in a team-oriented, fast-paced, event-driven environment.
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
A Cook III at Benchmark International Arena requires advanced culinary skills, leadership abilities, and experience managing multiple kitchen stations. Unlike entry-level cooks, this role involves overseeing food quality, training staff, and handling complex prep operations in a high-volume, event-driven environment.
Mastery of sautéing, grilling, roasting, and precise plating techniques is essential for a Cook III in Tampa’s fast-paced culinary scene. These skills ensure high-quality food preparation that meets the standards expected at a premier venue like Benchmark International Arena.
This role encourages leading kitchen teams during busy service periods, mentoring junior cooks, and ensuring smooth operations across multiple stations. It’s an excellent opportunity to strengthen communication, organizational skills, and hands-on management in a world-class hospitality setting.
Tampa’s growing entertainment industry, including Benchmark International Arena, has a steady need for skilled part-time cooks. The city's bustling event calendar drives consistent hiring, making it a favorable market for culinary professionals seeking flexible, part-time roles.
Tampa employers typically require a valid state food handler’s certification to comply with local health codes. This certification ensures cooks meet essential sanitation and food safety standards critical for large-scale event kitchens.
The Cook III role at Dallas Convention Center is tailored to experienced cooks who lead multi-station setups and uphold rigorous food quality standards. It demands a blend of technical expertise and leadership, setting it apart from entry-level or prep cook roles within the company.
Joining Dallas Convention Center as a Cook III offers exposure to a high-volume environment with premium hospitality standards, which can accelerate culinary career growth. The leadership experience gained here is valuable for progressing to executive chef or kitchen management roles.
Part-time cooks at Benchmark International Arena earn between $20.50 and $21.00 per hour, reflecting the venue’s commitment to competitive pay for skilled culinary professionals in Tampa’s vibrant hospitality market.
Working at a venue with attractions like tesla coils and a large biergarten means Cook IIIs must handle high-volume service during diverse events, maintaining quality under pressure while coordinating with event schedules, which adds complexity beyond regular kitchen duties.
Yes, the part-time role offers weekday and weekend shifts spanning mornings, afternoons, and evenings, accommodating those who need flexible hours while gaining experience in a dynamic, event-driven culinary environment.