Line Cook (Olive & Finch - DIA)

Job Description - Line Cook (DEN Airport)

Job Title: Line Cook - DEN Airport

Reports to: General Manager / Kitchen Manager

Employment Type: Full-Time / Non-Exempt

Eligible for Tips: No

Security Clearance: Must pass a federal background check and fingerprinting to obtain a Denver International Airport (DEN) security badge.

About Olive & Finch Collective

Olive & Finch Collective is a Denver-based hospitality group committed to fresh, chef-driven meals, exceptional guest experiences, and a people-first culture. Since opening in 2013, our growing portfolio now includes restaurants, neighborhood cafés, a full-service bakeshop, a robust catering and events division, retail and grab-and-go operations, and multiple locations at Denver International Airport. At Olive & Finch, we believe in inclusive leadership, sustainable growth, and nourishing both our guests and our teams.

Position Summary

The Line Cook at our Denver International Airport (DEN) locations is responsible for executing high-quality, chef-driven meals in an exceptionally fast-paced, high-volume environment. This role requires an energetic cook who can read, interpret, and execute ticket orders accurately in accordance with established Olive & Finch recipes and standards. The Line Cook must work in tandem with Prep Cooks and Kitchen Stewards to ensure seamless kitchen communication, fluid ticket times, and a highly organized line during heavy travel rushes.

Key Responsibilities

Order Execution & Culinary Standards

• Recipe Accuracy: Prepare and cook menu items exactly to Olive & Finch recipe specifications, portion controls, and plating presentations.


• Ticket Management: Read kitchen display systems or tickets efficiently, prioritizing orders to ensure fast, consistent ticket times for traveling guests.


• Quality Assurance: Ensure every dish leaving the line meets strict temperature, taste, and visual presentation standards.

Team Collaboration & Seamless Execution

• Prep Coordination: Communicate proactively with Prep Cooks to ensure the line stays fully stocked with fresh ingredients before and during peak travel hours.


• Steward Collaboration: Work closely with Kitchen Stewards to maintain a steady flow of clean plates, pans, and utensils, keeping the line moving without interruption.


• Shift Operations: Support team members and collaborate to ensure smooth back-of-house shift operations under pressure.

Line Cleanliness & Food Safety

• Station Organization: Maintain a clean, professional, and sanitary workstation throughout the shift, practicing clean-as-you-go habits.


• Food Safety Standards: Follow all health, safety, and sanitation procedures, including checking holding temperatures and preventing cross-contamination.


• Breakdown & Reset: Clean, sanitize, and break down line stations at the end of a shift, wrapping and labeling all items properly according to FIFO standards.

Qualifications

• Airport Badging: Must be able to successfully pass the required federal background screening and fingerprinting process mandated by Denver International Airport to secure an airport badge.


• Previous line cook or high-volume fast-casual culinary experience is required.


• Strong ability to read, comprehend, and execute recipes quickly and accurately.


• Proven ability to work in a fast-paced environment, handle multiple priorities, and stay calm under pressure.


• Strong communication skills and a team-minded, collaborative attitude.


• Availability: Schedule flexibility to work weekends, evenings, early mornings, and holidays as needed to align with airport flight schedules.

Physical Requirements

• This is a hands-on, physically intensive position requiring extended periods of standing, walking, and working near high-heat cooking equipment.


• Must be able to bend, reach, move quickly, and lift up to 50 lbs to support line stocking and kitchen operations.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly pay


• PTO, Sick Time (up to 6 days) & Holiday Pay


• Medical, Dental, Vision and IRA (eligible for full-time equivalent employees)


• Meal discounts, flexible scheduling, and opportunities for advancement within a growing company.

EEO & At-Will Statement Olive & Finch Collective is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Employment with Olive & Finch is at-will, meaning either the employee or the company may terminate employment at any time, with or without notice or cause. This job description is not an employment contract and may be updated as business needs evolve.

Must be able to pass a federal background check.