Line Cook - Prep Cook at Duck Stop Travel Center – Hodgkins, Illinois

Come join the Duckies Team at Duck Stop Travel Center!

Are you ready to spread your wings and grow with a team that’s all about great food, great people, and even greater memories? At Duck Stop Travel Center, we believe work should be more than just a pit stop — it should be a place where you find purpose, connection, and a few good laughs along the way. With combined experience of almost 60 years, you'll be working with some of best industry leaders in the QSR space, Ron Coglianese and Maria Hernandez!

We’re proud to be a locally owned and operated business that values community, sustainability, and the joy of a job well done. Whether you’re serving guests, supporting your teammates, or keeping the engines of our operation running smoothly, you’ll help deliver our promise of “miles of smiles” to every traveler who walks through our doors.

Duck Stop provides benefits that we know are important to you. Benefit options may differ depending on full-time or part-time employment.

Competitive/Holiday Pay

Flexible Scheduling

Free Shift Meals

Insurance Benefits: Health, Life, Dental, Vision, Disability

Paid Time Off

401(k) Plan

Position Overview

As a Line Cook - Prep Cook at Duck Stop Travel Center, you are responsible for preparing, cooking, and assembling high-quality food items while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, cleanliness, and speed of service. You’ll work as part of a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen where every order counts — ensuring guests receive delicious, properly prepared meals made to Duck Stop standards. The Line Cook plays a vital role in maintaining smooth kitchen operations and delivering the exceptional service that keeps our customers coming back.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Quality Control

• Prepare, cook, and assemble menu items according to Duck Stop recipes and portion standards.
• Ensure proper seasoning, portioning, and presentation of all food items.
• Maintain a clear understanding of cooking temperatures, food safety, and proper handling of meat and perishable items.
• Use portioning tools, utensils, and equipment correctly to maintain consistency and minimize waste.
• Ensure only high-quality ingredients are served — never sacrificing quality for speed.
• Track cooking times and monitor food holding areas to maintain freshness and temperature compliance.

Safety, Sanitation & Cleanliness

• Follow all company safety and sanitation procedures, including frequent handwashing and proper uniform standards.
• Maintain food safety standards for temperature control (hot and cold zones) and cross-contamination prevention.
• Monitor shelf life and rotate stock using the FIFO (First In, First Out) system.
• Keep ice baths properly maintained with a 50/50 water-to-ice ratio when required.
• Clean and sanitize all prep areas, cooking surfaces, and utensils throughout the shift.
• Ensure all storage and prep areas meet Duck Stop’s cleanliness and organization standards.

Station Management & Teamwork

• Keep your station NCO (Neat, Clean, and Organized) at all times.
• Restock condiments, utensils, and ingredients as needed during the shift to maintain continuous workflow.
• Communicate effectively with other team members using the “echo system” to ensure smooth food assembly and order accuracy.
• Move with urgency and maintain awareness of timing, guest volume, and order flow.
• Assist neighboring stations (grill, fry, salads, etc.) when needed to maintain efficiency and service standards.
• Ensure your station is properly cleaned, stocked, and ready for the next shift before clocking out.

Guest Experience & Speed of Service

• Support the kitchen team in maintaining quick, accurate service for dine-in and to-go orders.
• Communicate clearly and professionally with the front-of-house and expediting team to ensure accuracy and satisfaction.
• Execute every order with attention to detail and pride in presentation — every meal should represent Duck Stop quality.

• Previous experience in food service, grilling, or sandwich prep preferred.
• Knowledge of safe food handling, sanitation, and temperature control practices.
• Ability to multitask and work efficiently during busy periods.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Attention to detail and commitment to product quality.
• Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 25 lbs.
• Willingness to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

Duck Stop Travel Center is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. All employment decisions are made without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic as defined by applicable laws.