Cook I

About Paws Up Montana: Paws Up Montana is an award-winning luxury ranch resort recognized with Two MICHELIN Keys, a Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star rating, and the distinction of being named the #1 Resort in the Mountain West in the 2026 Condé Nast Traveler Readers' Choice Awards. Set on a 37,000-acre working cattle ranch in Montana's Blackfoot River Valley, Paws Up offers an extraordinary collection of dining experiences that celebrate regional ingredients, culinary craftsmanship, and authentic Western hospitality.

About the role

The Cook I is an entry-level culinary position responsible for supporting food preparation, cooking, and presentation across the resort's diverse dining operations. From refined dining experiences to outdoor culinary adventures, our culinary team plays an essential role in delivering the exceptional quality and memorable experiences for which Paws Up is recognized.

Working under the guidance of experienced cooks and culinary leadership, the Cook I assists with daily kitchen operations while developing the foundational skills necessary to succeed in a professional luxury hospitality environment. This position offers hands-on exposure to a variety of culinary techniques, seasonal ingredients, and dining concepts, with an emphasis on quality, consistency, and attention to detail.

We welcome individuals who are passionate about food, take pride in their work, and are eager to learn and grow within a collaborative culinary team. Previous luxury hospitality experience is not required. Through mentorship, practical training, and opportunities for advancement, Paws Up provides an environment where motivated individuals can build meaningful culinary careers while contributing to the resort's tradition of exceptional hospitality and culinary excellence.

What you will do

Food Preparation & Production Assist with daily food preparation, including washing, peeling, cutting, portioning, and organizing ingredients. Prepare basic menu items according to established recipes, portion specifications, and presentation standards. Perform fundamental cooking techniques, including boiling, roasting, sautéing, grilling, and baking, under appropriate supervision.

Assist with mise en place and station setup prior to meal service. Support more experienced cooks and culinary leadership during food preparation and service. Maintain consistency in food quality, portion control, and presentation. Follow established recipes and instructions while developing an understanding of ingredients, cooking methods, and kitchen equipment.

Food Safety & Sanitation Follow all established food safety, sanitation, and personal hygiene procedures. Maintain clean, organized, and properly stocked workstations. Properly label, date, rotate, and store food products according to established standards. Monitor food temperatures and follow safe food handling practices.

Assist with cleaning and maintaining kitchen equipment, utensils, and preparation areas. Report food safety concerns, equipment malfunctions, and unsafe working conditions to culinary leadership. Kitchen Operations & Teamwork Assist with receiving, organizing, and storing food deliveries. Support inventory rotation and waste reduction initiatives.

Communicate effectively with fellow cooks, supervisors, and other Food & Beverage team members. Follow instructions and complete assigned tasks within established timeframes. Maintain a professional appearance and conduct consistent with resort standards. Demonstrate flexibility in supporting multiple kitchen stations and dining outlets as operational needs require.

Perform additional culinary duties as assigned by kitchen leadership. Knowledge, Skills & Abilities Basic knife handling and food preparation skills. Foundational knowledge of cooking methods and kitchen equipment. Understanding of proper food storage, sanitation, and workplace safety. Ability to maintain organization and cleanliness during service.

Effective communication and teamwork. Ability to follow direction and prioritize tasks. Physical & Work Requirements Ability to stand and walk for extended periods. Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures, including hot kitchens and refrigerated storage areas. Ability to safely use commercial kitchen equipment and utensils.

Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds, with or without reasonable accommodation. Ability to perform repetitive movements, including bending, reaching, and lifting, as required by kitchen operations. Professional Development & Advancement The Cook I position is designed as the foundational level within Paws Up's three-tier culinary classification structure.

Employees will receive practical training and guidance from culinary leadership to develop the skills necessary for increased responsibility and advancement. Progression to Cook II may be considered based on demonstrated proficiency in the following areas: Consistent execution of basic food preparation and cooking techniques.

Ability to independently complete assigned preparation tasks. Understanding and application of food safety and sanitation standards. Improved speed, organization, and efficiency during service. Demonstrated reliability, teamwork, and professional conduct. Ability to execute assigned menu items with minimal supervision.

Advancement is based on demonstrated competency, performance, operational needs, and available opportunities rather than tenure alone. Commitment to Culinary Excellence All Culinary Team members at Paws Up contribute to delivering an exceptional guest experience. Regardless of position or experience level, employees are expected to demonstrate professionalism, pride in their work, respect for their colleagues, and a commitment to the standards of a luxury hospitality environment.

The Cook I position represents the beginning of a structured culinary career path, providing opportunities for continued learning, professional growth, and advancement within the resort. Additional Benefits for Paws Up Montana Employees Employee Assistance Program: Access to five complimentary counseling sessions. Employee Referral Bonus: Earn $250 for referring a qualified candidate who joins our team.

Carpool Reimbursement: Receive $5–20 per day in reimbursement for eligible carpool arrangements. Employee Merchandise Discounts: Enjoy 30% off select merchandise at our resort retail store. Complimentary Daily Lunch: Enjoy a freshly prepared meal provided during your workday. Paws Up Montana provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws.

This policy applies to all terms and conditions of employment, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.