Prep Cook
Work Where America’s Mountain Meets the Sky
Imagine starting your shift with a view of snow-capped peaks and ending your day hiking through pine forests under a Colorado sunset. Aramark Destinations Pikes Peak is looking for energetic university students to join their kitchen team as Prep Cooks in Colorado Springs, Colorado – one of the most breathtaking destinations in the United States.
Pikes Peak, known as “America’s Mountain,” rises 14,115 feet above sea level and welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors every year. As part of the Aramark team, you’ll help feed hungry travelers from all over the world while building real culinary skills and unforgettable memories.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Washing, peeling, chopping and portioning fresh vegetables, fruits, and proteins
- Preparing sauces, soups, salads, sandwiches and signature menu items
- Following recipes, portion controls and presentation standards set by the chef
- Keeping your station stocked, organized and spotlessly clean
- Assisting line cooks during busy service periods
- Following strict food safety, sanitation and HACCP guidelines
- Receiving and properly storing food deliveries
- Supporting your teammates in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen
The Details
- Position: Prep Cook
- Employer: Aramark Destinations Pikes Peak
- Location: Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Pay: $15.00 per hour
- Hours: 38 hours per week (overtime possible during peak season)
- Season: Summer to Fall
- Tips: Not applicable for this position
Why Colorado Springs?
Colorado Springs is an outdoor lover’s paradise and one of the top-rated cities in the USA for young travelers. On your days off you can explore the Garden of the Gods with its towering red rock formations, ride the Pikes Peak Cog Railway, hike the legendary Manitou Incline, or visit the Cave of the Winds and the Royal Gorge Bridge. Denver is just over an hour away, and the Rocky Mountain National Park is an easy weekend trip.
With over 300 days of sunshine per year, a vibrant student-friendly scene, and an international community of seasonal workers, Colorado Springs is the perfect base for your American summer.
What You’ll Gain
- Competitive $15/hour wage with a stable 38-hour schedule
- Real experience with a globally recognized hospitality brand (Aramark operates in 15+ countries)
- Professional kitchen training and food-safety certification knowledge
- A powerful line on your CV and an international reference letter
- Everyday English practice in a real American workplace
- Friendships with students from dozens of countries
What We’re Looking For
- University students aged 18–25 eligible for the Work & Travel USA J-1 program
- Conversational English (you’ll need to understand instructions quickly)
- Ability to stand for long shifts and lift up to 20 kg
- Comfortable working in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment
- Reliable, punctual and team-oriented attitude
- Previous kitchen experience is a plus, but full training is provided
- Willingness to work weekends, holidays and flexible shifts
Ready to Apply?
Positions at Pikes Peak fill up fast – it’s one of the most requested Work & Travel USA destinations every season. Secure your spot now and spend your summer cooking, climbing and exploring in the Colorado Rockies!
About Colorado
Colorado is the Rocky Mountain state, loved for its peaks, national parks and outdoor lifestyle. Summer jobs are common in mountain resorts, hotels and attractions around Colorado Springs and the Rockies.
