Cook - Food Prep
About The Position
The Food Prep position supports kitchen operations by preparing ingredients and maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient prep environment. The role ensures food items meet established standards and recipes and are prepared according to production lists while following food safety, sanitation, and storage guidelines. The position operates in a fast-paced kitchen, primarily indoors in kitchen prep areas. It involves constant standing and frequent physical activity, including cutting, lifting, and handling food products, as well as exposure to varying temperatures, kitchen equipment, and food production machinery. Success requires attention to detail, consistency, and the ability to work efficiently under supervision. The role reports to the Executive Chef. No regular travel is required.
Requirements
- High school diploma or equivalent required.
- Minimum 1 year of food preparation or kitchen experience in a restaurant or hotel environment preferred.
- Ability to prepare vegetables, proteins, starches, sauces, and stocks to established standards.
- Ability to read and accurately follow standardized recipes and production lists.
- Ability to safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
- Ability to portion food accurately using scales and measuring tools.
- Strong understanding of food storage, labeling, and FIFO rotation practices.
- Ability to maintain cleanliness and sanitation throughout the shift.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Ability to communicate effectively with kitchen leadership.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong teamwork and reliability.
- Constant standing on hard kitchen floors throughout the shift.
- Frequent walking, reaching, bending, and use of fine and gross motor skills; occasional crouching, kneeling, balancing, and pushing or pulling.
- Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs. frequently and up to 50 lbs. occasionally.
- Ability to work in a physically demanding kitchen environment.
Nice To Haves
- Food safety certification preferred, or required per local regulations.
- Minimum 1 year of food preparation or kitchen experience in a restaurant or hotel environment preferred, including experience with ingredient preparation, recipe execution, and kitchen sanitation practices.
Responsibilities
- Wash, peel, chop, slice, dice, and portion raw ingredients.
- Follow standardized recipes and daily production prep lists accurately.
- Ensure ingredients are prepared and ready for service.
- Complete assigned opening and closing prep duties.
- Label, date, and store prepared food items properly.
- Maintain FIFO rotation in storage areas.
- Monitor ingredient quality and report concerns to the Chef or Supervisor.
- Promptly report inventory shortages or product needs.
- Clean and sanitize prep stations, cutting boards, utensils, and equipment.
- Safely operate commercial kitchen equipment, including slicers, mixers, blenders, and food processors.
- Follow food safety and health code regulations.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free work environment throughout the shift.
- Communicate prep needs, shortages, and issues to kitchen leadership.
- Maintain a professional appearance and follow kitchen standards.
- Keep prep areas organized and ready to support kitchen efficiency.
- Assist team members as needed to ensure smooth kitchen operations.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
Education Level
High school or GED
