The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is actively recruiting for a Cook II position at the Black Bear Restaurant located within Davis Mountains State Park in Fort Davis, Texas. This full-time role promises a chance to engage with both local residents and visitors in a dynamic culinary environment, serving up dishes in one of Texas’s most scenic settings.
Position Details:
- Location: Black Bear Restaurant, 16543 Park Rd 3, TX Hwy 118 N, Fort Davis, Texas 79734
- Salary: $17.45 hourly, with a 5% increase effective from September 1, 2024
- Hours: 40 hours per week with varying schedules, including potential split shifts
- Travel: Minimal travel required (5% of the time)
Job Responsibilities: The Cook II will perform journey-level food preparation work under the direction of management at the Black Bear Restaurant. Key responsibilities include cooking menu items upon order receipt, maintaining clean kitchen and storage areas, managing food inventory, and making recommendations for enhancing operational efficiency. The role may also encompass duties in housekeeping, maintenance, or groundskeeping as needed.
Minimum Qualifications:
- Education: Minimum completion of 8th grade
- Experience: At least six months of experience in food preparation in a full-service restaurant
- Certification: Must obtain a valid Food Handler Certification recognized by the Texas Department of State Health Services within thirty days of employment
Preferred Qualifications:
- Education: High School diploma or GED
- Experience: One year of experience in a full-service restaurant
- Certification: Current Food Handler Certification
Skills Required: Applicants should have knowledge of restaurant operations, food preparation techniques, health and safety regulations, and effective inventory management. Proficiency in using Microsoft Office tools like Word, Excel, and Outlook is necessary, along with strong communication skills and the ability to work independently or as part of a team.
Working Conditions: The job requires working in a hotel-type facility with physical demands such as lifting supplies up to 30 lbs. Candidates must be flexible with their schedules, accommodating hours beyond the typical 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. workday, and working on days including and beyond typical weekends and holidays.
Interested candidates should note that applications must include complete job histories, as partial histories or applications stating “See attached” or “See resume” in lieu of a completed application form will not be accepted. Additional details on applying, including answering supplemental questions through CAPPS Recruit, are available on the TPWD website.
This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to the enjoyment and satisfaction of park visitors while enjoying the benefits of working in one of Texas’s most beautiful natural settings. For more information and to apply, potential applicants should contact the hiring manager, Diego Aragon, at (432) 249-1152 or visit the TPWD careers page.
