About Choice Hotels

Choice Hotels International, Inc. (NYSE: CHH) stands as one of the world's largest lodging franchisors, boasting over 7,400 hotels and more than 625,000 rooms across 45 countries. As a leader in midscale, extended stay, and upscale segments, Choice Hotels offers a diverse portfolio of 22 brands, including familiar names like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, Radisson, Radisson Blu, and Country Inn & Suites. This extensive network meets every traveler's needs, from economy stays to full-service upper upscale properties. The award-winning Choice Privileges loyalty program enhances guest experiences with reward nights and personalized perks. At Choice Hotels, our managed properties like the Radisson Blu Mall of America embody the 'Yes I Can!' attitude, delivering unique, stylish hospitality. Our cultural values—Welcome and Respect Everyone, Be Bold, Be Quick, Listen, Be Curious, and Show Integrity—drive loyalty, growth, and the true hospitality spirit.

Role Overview

The Cook II (Banquets) position at the Radisson Blu Mall of America in Bloomington, Minnesota, is your opportunity to contribute to an upper-upscale icon connected directly to the world-famous Mall of America. This role involves cost-effective preparation and plating of exceptional food that exceeds guest expectations. FireLake Grill House and Cocktail Bar, our 175-seat restaurant and 125-seat lounge, highlights regional, local, and sustainable ingredients grilled, rotisserie-cooked, or smoked over real burning wood. With 500 design-forward guest rooms and over 26,000 square feet of meeting space, this property demands culinary precision and impeccable service. Starting at $21.88 per hour, this full-time role offers a premium work environment where your skills shine in a high-volume, stylish setting.

Why This Role Stands Out

As Cook II, you'll work under the guidance of the Chef, ensuring every dish aligns with Radisson Blu's standards of genuine hospitality. From banquets to daily service, your contributions create memorable experiences for guests enjoying local brews, selective wines, and modern cocktails.

Key Responsibilities

In this dynamic kitchen role, you'll handle a range of tasks to maintain operational excellence:

• Prepare sauces, soups, hot entrees, and garnish all food orders per menu specifications.
• Accurately measure high-quality ingredients, adjust recipes, and taste-test to meet standards.
• Operate ranges, ovens, broilers, fryers, griddles, and other equipment safely.
• Portion food, present appealingly, and coordinate with servers for seamless service.
• Maintain clean work areas, coolers, and storage; control food waste per SOPs.
• Follow safe food-handling guidelines, rotate perishables, and ensure hazard-free kitchens.
• Deliver 100% guest satisfaction through personal attention and teamwork.

Qualifications & Requirements

To thrive as Cook II (Banquets), bring proven culinary expertise:

• Prior experience as a Cook II or similar in upscale hospitality environments.
• Strong knowledge of recipe execution, ingredient measurement, and flavor profiling.
• Proficiency with specialized equipment like grills, rotisseries, and smokers.
• Commitment to food safety, sanitation, and Radisson Blu's hospitality standards.
• Team player with a 'Yes I Can!' mindset for resolving guest concerns empathetically.

No formal education specified, but hands-on experience in high-volume kitchens is essential.

Benefits & Perks

Choice Hotels rewards your talent with competitive compensation and comprehensive perks:

• Hourly wage: $21.88, plus complimentary meals in the associate cafeteria during shifts.
• Employee discounts on thousands of hotels across brands like Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Radisson.
• Free parking and Paid Sick Time (MN Earned Sick and Safe Time).
• Full benefits after 30 days: health, dental, vision, short/long-term disability, auto insurance, employer-paid HSA, 401(k).
• 90 days: Paid vacation and 8 paid holidays; 1 year: Paid floating holidays and bereavement.
• Employee Assistance Program for work-life balance.

Career Growth

Choice Hotels invests in your professional development. Start as Cook II and advance to lead roles, Executive Chef positions, or management across our global portfolio. Internal training, mentorship, and cross-brand opportunities at properties like Quality Inn or Radisson foster long-term growth. Embrace our cultural values to inspire loyalty and climb the ladder in hospitality.

Why Join Choice Hotels

Joining Choice Hotels means more than a job—it's a career in a thriving industry leader. Work at the Radisson Blu Mall of America, steps from endless entertainment, while enjoying perks like hotel employee discounts for personal travel. Be part of a team that prioritizes integrity, curiosity, and bold service. With brands spanning Comfort Inn's reliable comfort to Radisson's upscale elegance, your impact reaches millions. Experience the hospitality spirit that drives shareholder value and guest loyalty worldwide.

Role FAQs

Q: What is the starting pay for Cook II (Banquets)?
A: $21.88 per hour, with opportunities for growth based on performance.

Q: Are there hotel discounts for employees?
A: Yes, enjoy discounts on thousands of Choice Hotels, including Comfort Inn, Quality Inn, and Radisson properties.

Q: What benefits start immediately?
A: Complimentary meals, free parking, and paid sick time; full package after 30 days.

Q: Is experience required?
A: Yes, prior Cook II-level experience in upscale kitchens is preferred.

Q: How does this role support career advancement?
A: Through training, internal promotions, and exposure to Choice Hotels' diverse brands.