Culinary Production & Prep Lead

Food for Thought•Chicago, IL

4h•$16 - $18•Onsite

About The Position

As a Culinary Production & Prep Lead, you will support daily kitchen operations by coordinating food preparation activities and ensuring all items are prepared according to established standards. This role works closely with kitchen leadership to maintain consistency, quality, and efficiency across all production areas. You will assist in guiding prep workflows, completing assigned production lists, and maintaining a clean, organized, and high-functioning workstation throughout each shift.

Requirements

At least 1 year of experience in a high-volume kitchen or food production environment
Strong knife skills and understanding of basic cooking techniques, kitchen equipment, and food safety practices
Ability to follow recipes, measurements, and portion standards accurately
Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
Ability to read, write, and understand English to follow prep lists and recipes
Valid Food Handler or Food Service Manager Certification required

Nice To Haves

Experience supporting or guiding kitchen workflows or team members
Strong communication skills and ability to work collaboratively
Adaptability and problem-solving skills in a fast-paced environment

Responsibilities

Support daily food preparation across multiple production areas, following established recipes and prep lists
Assist with coordinating task flow and ensuring timely completion of kitchen prep activities
Maintain proper food storage, labeling, and portioning in alignment with food safety standards
Monitor kitchen equipment and work areas to ensure cleanliness and operational readiness
Inspect ingredients and prepared items to ensure quality and consistency
Assist with inventory tracking and communicate supply needs as appropriate
Follow all opening and closing procedures, maintaining an organized and efficient workstation
Collaborate with team members and leadership to support overall kitchen operations

Benefits

Excellent training
Employee Referral bonuses
Flexible scheduling
Career advancement opportunities
Competitive Pay
Anniversary Milestone Incentives
Paid Time Off
Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance – Includes Spouse and Domestic Partner Coverage (Blue Cross Blue Shield Provider)
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Paid Life Insurance
Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance (AD&D) & Critical Illness Insurance
Short Term Disability
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Mental Health, Relationship Conflicts, Child and Eldercare, Substance Abuse, Grief and Loss
Assistance for you and household members
In Person Sessions
Unlimited phone access
Parental Leave – Equal benefits to Mothers and Fathers
401K Retirement Plan
FFT University - Over 70 courses designed to enhance your skills in life and on the job to help your career growth.
Employee Meal Plan
Employee Discounts (Pet Insurance, Entertainment, Travel, Company Discounts, and much more).