Specialty Cook

About the Role

We’re always looking for talent that believes in having fun. At PENN Entertainment, you’ll get to be a part of an exciting industry where days and nights are fast paced. You’ll work with an incredibly diverse set of coworkers driven by their enthusiasm for helping people find and have more fun. You’ll also get to work at a company that cares about your career growth and will help you get the support you need to expand your possibilities.

Initial placement within the salary range is based on an individual's relevant knowledge, skills, and experience. Base salary is just one component of our competitive Total Rewards package, which includes wellness programs designed to support our team members’ financial, physical, and mental well‑being. Specific benefits—such as day‑one medical coverage, 401(k) matching, and annual performance bonus—may vary by position. Paid time off is earned according to the local policy and increases with the length of employment.

Bring your culinary expertise to the grand stage at Sorellina by Giada
, the exclusive celebrity restaurant at the all‑new Hollywood Casino Joliet
. Partnering with world‑renowned chef Giada De Laurentiis
, Sorellina blends authentic Italian traditions with innovative flair, setting a new standard for fine dining in Chicagoland.

As a Specialty Cook I, you’ll be the culinary leader on the line
, orchestrating service with precision, mentoring junior cooks, and ensuring every plate that leaves the kitchen reflects Chef Giada’s vision of elegance and flavor.

• Lead the hot line during service — managing pacing, timing, and plate quality across all stations.
• Ensure recipe accuracy, flavor balance, and flawless presentation.
• Coordinate daily prep and production plans, conducting tastings and line checks.
• Mentor and train Specialty Cook II and III team members, ensuring development and consistency.
• Support menu development, tastings, and seasonal rollouts.
• Run the pass/expo when assigned, working side by side with FOH leaders.
• Uphold HACCP, sanitation, and safety standards while monitoring inventory and waste.

• 3–5+ years of progressive experience in upscale or fine‑dining kitchens with mastery of multiple stations.
• Proven leadership experience coordinating service and training teams.
• Advanced culinary skills: fresh pasta, risotto, sauces, butchery, and plating discipline.
• Strong palate, attention to detail, and ability to deliver at a high‑volume pace.
• Serv Safe Food Protection Manager certification preferred.

• Must obtain and maintain Illinois Gaming Board (IGB) Occupational Licensing.
• Illinois Food Handler certification (within 30 days of hire).
• Ability to stand for long periods, lift 35–50 lbs, and thrive in a high‑energy casino restaurant environment.

At Hollywood Casino Joliet, you won’t just be joining another kitchen — you’ll be stepping into a celebrity‑driven concept where excellence is the standard and innovation is encouraged. As a Specialty Cook I, you’ll be a leader in shaping the guest experience and developing the next generation of culinarians.

This is your chance to lead the line in one of Chicagoland’s most exciting new restaurants.

Starting salary: 20.93 per hour

Seniority level:
Mid‑Senior level

Employment type:

Full‑time
Job function:
Management and Manufacturing
Industries:
Gambling Facilities and Casinos

Hollywood Casino Joliet is an Equal Opportunity Employer.