Lead Cook | Part-Time | University of Southern California (USC) Athletics
Company : Dallas Convention Center
Location : Los Angeles, CA, 90089
Job Type : Part Time
Date Posted : 4 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
The Lead Cook is responsible for preparing menu items utilizing cooking equipment in a fast-paced environment. The Cook must adhere to high food quality standards to ensure guest satisfaction. Portion control, food waste and sanitation are additional areas that the Cook must be aware of while operating in the kitchen.
This role pays an hourly rate of $19.30-$22.00
Benefits for Part-Time roles: 401(k) Savings Plan and 401(k) matching
This position will remain open until January 9, 2026.
Responsibilities
- Responsible for cooking and packaging food product which is prepared to order or kept warm until sold.
- Receives verbal orders from the front counter staff for food product requirements for guest orders.
- Responsible for maintaining quality and production standards on all menu items. Food must be fresh and of high quality when served to the guests.
- Responsible for portion control and serving temperatures of all products served in the concession stand.
- Responsible for cleaning, stocking and restocking of workstations and displays.
- Responsible for operating large-volume cooking equipment such as grills, deep-fat fryers and ovens.
- Ensures that all work areas and equipment are clean, food products are properly stored, utensils are clean and put away and floor is swept and mopped at end of shift. The Cook must be checked out before ending the shift by the Floor Supervisor to ensure the concession stand meets cleanliness standards.
- Maintains sanitation, health and safety standards in work areas.
- Must show demonstrated ability to meet the company standard for excellent attendance.
Qualifications
- 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.
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
At USC Athletics, a Lead Cook manages high-volume food preparation tailored to athletic events, emphasizing quality, portion control, and fast-paced service. This role requires coordinating with event staff and maintaining strict sanitation standards, setting it apart from typical kitchen roles focused on standard restaurant service.
Possessing valid food handling certifications and strong communication skills are vital, alongside experience in fast-paced team environments. Demonstrated ability to maintain food quality and adhere to safety standards is crucial for part-time cook roles in college athletics, where event-driven demands are frequent.
Expect to juggle cooking orders swiftly, manage station cleanliness, operate large-volume equipment like grills and fryers, and coordinate with front counter staff. The role demands attention to portion sizes and maintaining high food quality, ensuring guests enjoy fresh, well-prepared meals at athletic events.
Yes, part-time Lead Cooks in LA sports venues typically earn between $19.30 and $22.00 hourly, reflecting the specialized skills required for fast-paced event catering. This pay range aligns with market standards for culinary roles supporting collegiate athletics and entertainment venues.
Dallas Convention Center provides part-time employees access to a 401(k) savings plan with matching contributions, a notable perk in hospitality roles. This benefit enhances financial security for part-time cooks balancing work with other commitments, distinguishing it from many other LA kitchens.
Working at Dallas Convention Center involves managing high-volume food production during diverse events, requiring flexibility and rapid adaptation. Unlike typical restaurant kitchens, the cook must ensure consistent quality amid fluctuating guest volumes and maintain rigorous cleanliness standards set by venue management.
Los Angeles boasts a vibrant collegiate athletics scene, increasing demand for skilled cooks familiar with fast-paced event catering. However, competition remains high due to a large talent pool attracted to part-time culinary jobs offering flexible schedules and event-based work environments.
Los Angeles County mandates valid food handler certificates for cooks in public venues, including university athletics facilities. This ensures adherence to strict sanitation and safety standards, crucial for large-scale food service operations typical in collegiate sports settings.
While primarily part-time, the Lead Cook position opens pathways to supervisory roles within venue hospitality teams. Gaining experience at high-profile events and mastering operational standards can position candidates for full-time culinary or managerial opportunities in sports and entertainment sectors.
They prioritize cooks who excel in fast-paced, team-driven environments, demonstrate excellent attendance, and maintain strict quality and sanitation practices. Effective communication and a positive attitude towards collaborative work are also essential to thrive in this dynamic, event-focused culinary role.