"Institute for Contemporary Art Prep Cook"

Advertising Summary

The Institute for Contemporary Art (ICA) at Virginia Commonwealth University invites applicants for the position of Prep Cook.

Unit

Institute for Contemporary Art MBU

Department

Institute for Contemporary Art

Department Summary

The department of Facilities and Experience Design is responsible for the stewardship of the ICA's building, the Markel Center, and the operational use of its spaces, including the Lewis & Butler Foundation Shop, the Abby Moore Cafe, the Auditorium, and Thinking Field. The department prioritizes a welcoming, hospitable, safe, engaging, sustainable, and educational visitor experience, serving as an important liaison between the ICA and the communities it serves.

Duties & Responsibilities

Job Overview Statement

The Prep Cook reports to the Head of Cafe and Retail Operations and is an important member of the Institute for Contemporary Arts’s cafe and retail team. This position supports the operations of the ICA’s Abby Moore Cafe, assisting with the coordination and preparation of food production, and helping ensure a safe, high-quality dining experience for visitors. The cafe and retail program is a synthesis of carefully curated food, beverages, products, and public programs, and is firmly rooted in our commitment to create sustainable operations that support welcoming, inclusive, and curious art, food, and culture-focused opportunities.

Job Responsibilities - Food Preparation

• Maintain ServSafe Manager, or equivalent ANSI-CFP, certification to ensure the highest state standards for food safety and cleanliness
• Model all food safety policies and procedures
• Display a working knowledge of all ingredients and preparation used on the menu
• Responsible for food production for daily service, program hosting, and any additional food prep
• Work with Head of Cafe and Retail Operations and the Assistant Manager of Cafe and Retail Operations to coordinate food menu, ordering, and prep schedule for cafe hosting
• Maintain appropriate ingredient inventory practices, communicate ordering needs for food production
• Knowledgeable about food assembly and able to support the team during a busy service

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of back of house experience in a cafe, restaurant and/or hospitality role with a track record of providing excellent food service
• ServSafe Manager or equivalent ANSI Certification
• Excellent communication skills, including strong relationship skills and ability to engage with and work with a diverse group of people across a wide range of experiences
• Ability to work independently and at a swift pace
• Demonstrated ability to maintain composure under pressure
• Experience with inventory management
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including days, nights, and weekends
• Ability to walk or stand for long periods of time
• Ability to lift 50 pounds

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge and/or enthusiasm for how food is grown, sourced, prepared, and served
• Passion and curiosity for food and the hospitality business
• Experience complying to Virginia Food Laws
• Knowledge of/engagement with contemporary food culture

Salary Range

$20/hour

Benefits

All VCU employee types are eligible for a wide array of benefits to support you during your employment at VCU. Consult the benefits website for information on benefits eligibility according to employee type.

FLSA Exemption Status

Non-Exempt

Hours per Week

8-10 hours/week

ORP Eligible

No

Flexible Work Arrangement

Fully Onsite

University Job Title

Cook GA 3

Application Deadline

November 24, 2025

Contact Information

Contact Name: VCUarts HR
Contact Email: artshr@vcu.edu