Performance Nutrition and Food Service Intern

Levy Restaurants x Chicago Cubs
Chicago, IL

Position Title: Performance Nutrition and Food Service Intern

Department: Levy & Chicago Cubs Performance Nutrition 

Reports To: Dietitian and Executive Chef

Payrate: $17.00/hr

Program Dates: March 28th, 2025 - September 28th, 2025

 

Job Summary:

The Performance Nutrition and Food Service Intern is a vital part of the Chicago Cubs’ performance nutrition and culinary team, dedicated to optimizing player health, recovery, and performance. This hands-on role provides a unique opportunity to gain practical experience in food preparation, nutrition education, inventory management, and foodservice systems, all while working closely with professional athletes and experienced nutrition and culinary staff.

The ideal candidate is passionate about sports nutrition, detail-oriented, and eager to gain real-world experience in a fast-paced, collaborative environment.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

Food Preparation and Service:

  • Assist with hot and cold food preparation, ensuring high-quality standards and consistency.
  • Prepare smoothies to order and assist with general smoothie preparation using standardized recipes.
  • Replenish condiments, beverages, and supplies, maintaining cleanliness of all service areas.
  • Maintain the buffet line to professional standards, ensuring it is well-stocked, visually appealing, and compliant with performance nutrition protocols.
  • Support menu development by contributing creative ideas and ensuring alignment with performance nutrition goals.
  • Organize and set up catering and vendor orders as needed.

Fueling Station Management:

  • Assist in the daily management of fueling station, including stocking and maintaining inventory.
  • Stock and manage designated NSF Certified for Sport supplements.

Performance Nutrition Operations:

  • Collaborate with the dietitian to create, update, and improve evidence-based nutrition education materials and resources that enhance player knowledge and engagement.
  • Help prepare snacks and hydration for athletes on game-days, ensuring proper fueling before, during, and after events.
  • Research and stay up to date with current trends, nutrition science, and best practices in performance nutrition, contributing to the development of new strategies to enhance athletic performance through diet and incorporating this knowledge into the team’s nutrition program.
  • Assist in packing nutrition essentials for road trips to meet player dietary needs.

Sanitation and Maintenance:

  • Clean and sanitize floors, tables, equipment, and service areas to maintain a safe and organized environment.
  • Uphold sanitation and safety standards in compliance with company guidelines.

Administrative and Additional Responsibilities:

  • Maintain accurate inventory records and support weekly inventory management.
  • Assist in opening or closing the service location as needed.
  • Complete additional duties as assigned to support team operations.
  • Demonstrate reliability through consistent attendance and punctuality.

What You’ll Gain:

  • Hands-on experience working with professional athletes and a high-performance nutrition team.
  • Skill development in food preparation, menu planning, and foodservice systems.
  • Exposure to sports nutrition strategies, including fueling station management and supplement oversight.
  • The opportunity to create and deliver impactful nutrition education materials.
  • Mentorship from experienced dietitians and culinary professionals.

Qualifications:

  • Currently pursuing or recently completed a degree in Nutrition, Dietetics, Food Science, or a related field.
  • Prior experience in food service, sports nutrition, or related fields.
  • Basic knowledge of food preparation, safety, and sanitation standards (servsafe certified preferred).
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills with a professional and friendly demeanor.
  • Ability to multitask and adapt in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
  • Proficiency in creating evidence-based nutrition education materials is a plus.

Working Conditions:

  • Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physical tasks, such as lifting and moving supplies (up to 25 lbs).
  • Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends.