Line Cook

The Line Cook position serves as the closest verified trainee pathway within Masa's culinary team. Participants work alongside experienced chefs in a Michelin three-star environment, assisting with ingredient preparation, mise en place, station organization, food production, sanitation, inventory support, and service execution. The role provides intensive exposure to Japanese fine dining, luxury hospitality standards, precision knife work, premium ingredient handling, teamwork, and professional kitchen operations. Trainees develop technical culinary skills while learning the discipline, craftsmanship, and attention to detail required in one of the world's most respected restaurant environments.

The ideal candidate is a recent graduate of a culinary institution, hospitality school, gastronomy program, or related academic discipline, with formal training in culinary arts, food preparation, kitchen operations, or restaurant management. Candidates should demonstrate strong culinary fundamentals, professionalism, discipline, humility, and a genuine interest in Japanese cuisine and Michelin-level dining. Previous internships, apprenticeships, culinary externships, restaurant employment, or practical kitchen training are preferred. Experience with knife skills, mise en place, food safety, sanitation, ingredient preparation, teamwork, and kitchen organization is beneficial. The candidate must be coachable, detail-oriented, adaptable, punctual, respectful, resilient, and committed to stru

Pay rate: $20+ per hour, based on the participant’s experience and qualifications.

Benefits include Michelin-level culinary training, chef mentorship, fine-dining exposure, professional development, networking opportunities, cultural exchange, and staff meals where applicable.

Additional Requirements

• Strong interest in Japanese cuisine and fine dining.
• Ability to work efficiently in a high-performance kitchen.
• Commitment to sanitation and food safety standards.
• Ability to stand for extended periods and perform physically demanding tasks.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Professional demeanor and positive attitude.

General Information

• Masa is one of the most acclaimed Japanese restaurants in the United States and holds three Michelin stars.
• The restaurant is led by Chef Masayoshi Takayama and is recognized for exceptional omakase dining, ingredient quality, and craftsmanship.
• Training occurs through direct mentorship and hands-on experience rather than through a publicly advertised trainee program.
• Team members are expected to maintain the highest standards of professionalism, consistency, and guest-focused hospitality.

International Candidate Information

• The position may be suitable for J-1 Trainee or Intern candidates when arranged through an - authorized sponsor organization and approved training plan.
• Visa sponsorship availability should be verified directly with the employer.
• International candidates with culinary education, hospitality training, or previous restaurant experience are likely to benefit most from this type of placement.
• English communication skills and willingness to adapt to a luxury hospitality environment are important.