Market Lead Cook

About the role

The Madison Club, a luxury private club in La Quinta, California, is seeking a Market Lead Cook to join its Culinary Department for the winter‑spring season. This full‑time, seasonal position oversees food preparation, quality, and kitchen operations to deliver an exceptional guest experience.

Key responsibilities

• Direct and coordinate 2–5 line cooks or prep staff during service, assigning tasks and monitoring workflow.
• Prepare entrees, sides, and specialty meals to recipe standards, ensuring proper portioning, presentation, and dietary accommodations.
• Conduct taste checks for flavor, temperature, and consistency; correct deviations immediately.
• Verify mise en place across stations, communicate prep priorities, and maintain clean, sanitized work areas.
• Enforce ServSafe food safety standards, monitor temperatures, and manage proper food storage and rotation.
• Train and mentor junior cooks on recipes, techniques, and kitchen procedures.
• Monitor inventory levels, communicate ordering needs, and assist with stock rotation.
• Support the head chef in developing and testing new menu items and specials.
• Address equipment issues and other operational challenges during shifts.

Required profile

• Previous experience as a line cook, cook, or similar culinary position; leadership experience is a plus.
• Hospitality or resort industry experience preferred.
• High School Diploma or equivalent.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and coordinate kitchen staff during service.
• Positive attitude, professional demeanor, and strong communication skills.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and long hours as needed.

Required skills

• ServSafe food safety knowledge.
• Food Handlers Certification (required within 7 days of hire).