Catering by Michaels Garde Manger Cook

At Catering by Michaels, we believe an event is more than food on a plate. Every salad, fruit display, composed platter, and cold preparation contributes to an experience that guests remember long after the event is over.

Founded in 1980, Catering by Michaels is a full-service catering and events company based in Morton Grove, Illinois. We produce events throughout Chicago and the surrounding suburbs, ranging from weddings and galas to corporate events, festivals, mitzvahs, and private celebrations.

We are looking for a Garde Manger Cook who takes pride in presentation, consistency, and craftsmanship. This position plays a key role in preparing the fresh, high-quality items that help define the Catering by Michaels experience.

About Catering by Michaels

For more than four decades, we have built our reputation as one of Chicago's leading catering and events companies through quality, creativity, and execution.

• Scratch kitchen focused on quality, craftsmanship, and fresh ingredients
• Sustainability leader, certified by both Green Restaurant and Green Seal
• Experience executing major events including Lollapalooza, the NFL Draft, LIV Golf, the Black Creativity Gala, and countless weddings, galas, and corporate events throughout Chicago
• Full-service catering and event production serving Chicago and the surrounding suburbs

Every role contributes to the client experience.

Why This Role Matters

The Garde Manger department is responsible for many of the first items guests see and enjoy at an event. From fresh fruit displays and pasta salads to composed vegetable salads and cold appetizers, presentation and consistency are essential.

This role requires attention to detail, efficiency, and a commitment to quality in a fast-paced production environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare fresh fruit displays, fruit cups, and fruit-based menu items according to company standards
• Produce pasta salads, vegetable salads, grain salads, and other cold preparations
• Follow recipes accurately while maintaining consistency and quality
• Portion, package, and label products according to production schedules
• Assist with ingredient preparation including washing, cutting, peeling, and processing fruits and vegetables
• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary workstations throughout each shift
• Ensure all products meet company standards for freshness, flavor, and presentation
• Work closely with chefs and fellow kitchen team members to meet production deadlines
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety procedures

Qualifications

• Previous prep cook, garde manger, commissary, or kitchen experience preferred
• Strong knife skills and ability to work efficiently with fresh produce
• Ability to follow recipes and production schedules accurately
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to presentation
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced kitchen environment
• Positive attitude and willingness to work as part of a team
• Reliable attendance and punctuality
• Flexible availability including weekends and holidays as needed
• Spanish language skills are a plus. If you speak Spanish, you will be working alongside team members who do as well

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods throughout the workday
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly
• Ability to bend, reach, kneel, and move throughout production areas
• Comfortable working in refrigerated environments and commercial kitchen settings

Why Work With Catering by Michaels

We have been doing this since 1980 because we care about doing things the right way. Our culinary team takes pride in creating food that looks great, tastes great, and helps create memorable events throughout Chicago.

If you enjoy working with fresh ingredients, have an eye for presentation, and want to be part of a team that values craftsmanship and execution, we encourage you to apply.

Join a catering and events company that values quality, teamwork, and creating exceptional experiences through food.