Job Description
Disney Culinary Program – Walt Disney World® Resort The Disney Culinary Program offers aspiring culinary professionals the unique opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a world-renowned hospitality environment. Participants work alongside seasoned Disney Chefs, learning the art and science of food preparation, presentation, and service in a diverse range of settings, from fine dining restaurants to themed fast-casual locations. This Program is designed to mentor talent, develop technical skills, and instill Disney’s legendary commitment to guest service. Program Highlights Hands-on culinary training in a dynamic, fast-paced environment Networking with Disney Chefs and industry leaders Engaging with food ingredients and products sourced globally Competitive pay and other program perks Access to exclusive Disney learning and development resources Program participants can choose to reside at Flamingo Crossings Village, a fully furnished apartment complex run by American Campus Communities and located just minutes from Walt Disney World Resort Bus transportation provided by Disney Programs connects you to Disney Parks and Resorts as well as local grocery stores and shopping Program Dates Culinary recruitment: March–December 2026 arrivals Baking & Pastry recruitment: August – December 2026 arrivals Program length: 4–6 months (16–24 weeks) Program dates will be discussed during interview Compensation $23.00 per hour – Culinary Cook 2 / Baking & Pastry 2 $26.10 per hour – Culinary Cook 1 / Baking & Pastry 1 $27.10 per hour – Culinary Cook 1 Signature Key Responsibilities Prepare and cook a variety of menu items under the guidance of Disney chefs Maintain the highest standards of food quality, safety, and sanitation in accordance with Disney and industry guidelines Practice proper portion control and presentation techniques to deliver visually appealing and delicious dishes Communicate with guests and team members to ensure a magical dining experience Uphold Disney’s core values of teamwork, respect, and excellence in guest service What’s Next? Visit DisneyPrograms.com and the Culinary – Disney Programs Support page to learn more Selected candidates will be invited to a 30-minute phone interview Upon offer, a non-refundable Program Participation Fee is due within 10 days A non-refundable Housing Fee is due three weeks before arrival for those Benefits & Perks Weekly pay Company-provided culinary uniforms and shoes Complimentary theme park admission and cast-exclusive discounts At least 18 years old at application Unrestricted work authorization in the U.S. (includes all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories) Be fully available to work Sunday through Saturday, including days and nights, holidays, weekends, and overtime Be open to a starting pay rate of $23.00 per hour Capable of lifting up to 50 lbs., standing, walking, climbing stairs, and performing duties both indoors and outdoors in all weather conditions Adhere to Disney Look and Food & Beverage appearance guidelines Ability to prepare, cook, taste food for quality/consistency Completed a ServSafe®, HACCP, or sanitation course prior to arrival Skilled with knives; familiar with basic cuts Strong communication skills, guest service commitment Willing to use Personal Protective Equipment (cut gloves, eyewear, ear plugs, etc.) Currently enrolled full- or part-time in a U.S.-based Culinary Arts or Baking & Pastry program and have completed at least one semester (includes all 50 states, Puerto Rico, and U.S. territories) OR Graduated from a full-time or part-time Culinary Arts or Baking & Pastry program based in the United States within the past 24 months. May need to meet school-specific requirements (GPA, credits) Individuals who have not obtained a high school diploma and are currently enrolled in a dual enrollment program with a college are not eligible to apply Culinary Assistant – Cook II Work in fast-paced settings (à la carte, buffet, catering, fast-casual) Develop skills: hot/cold prep, sauce-making, garde manger production, fry Gain proficiency: sautéing, roasting, grillin