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VPR Cafe: Vermont's Cook Shortage

Glen Russell
/
Burlington Free Press
Abbie Sweeney, head chef at Waterworks in Winooski (left) with Sarah Shiman. Shiman, a new hire who heard about the position on Craigslist, was hired with no prior cooking experience.

A shortage of cooks in Vermont has led some restaurants to pursue creative alternatives to the traditional methods for attracting new talent. Some restaurants are offering signing bonuses and even finders fees to employees that bring in new workers. And it's not just about new hires. Restaurants are also looking for new ways to retain existing staff.

“Some restaurants are giving benefits. Vacation time and sick time, that kind of thing to get people,” said Sally Pollak contributor to the Burlington Free Press’ Savorvore Section.

Low-wages, difficult working conditions and the high number of restaurants are just a few of the reasons why some believe there is a cook shortage in Vermont.

Checkout Pollak's piece, "Vermont Restaurants Face Cook Crisis," in the Burlington Free Press for more.

The VPR Café is made possible by Otter Creek Kitchenware in downtown Middlebury, offering over 70 lines of kitchenware.

Ric was a producer for Vermont Edition and host of the VPR Cafe.
Liam is Vermont Public’s public safety reporter, focusing on law enforcement, courts and the prison system.
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