Kitchen Prep Cook - Part-Time

AgeWell Services • Norton Shores, MI

1d • Onsite

About The Position

The Prep Cook plays a key role in supporting daily kitchen operations by preparing food for both hot and cold production while assisting the Hot Production Coordinator in maintaining efficient cook line and tray line operations. This position is responsible for preparing ingredients and side items using batch cooking methods, maintaining food quality and food safety standards, and ensuring production schedules are met. Working closely with the Hot Production Coordinator, Cold Production Coordinator, Production Manager, and tray line team, the Prep Cook helps maintain workflow, supports leadership on the cook line and tray line, and ensures meals are prepared safely, accurately, and efficiently while maintaining AgeWell Services' standards for quality and customer service.

Requirements

• Knowledge of commercial food preparation techniques and batch cooking methods.
• Working knowledge of food safety regulations, sanitation procedures, and HACCP principles.
• Ability to accurately follow standardized recipes and production specifications.
• Strong organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced production environment.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work independently while supporting overall kitchen operations.
• Commitment to producing high-quality meals and maintaining food safety standards.
• Must be able to safely lift and carry up to 40 pounds on a regular basis.
• The ability to safely operate food service equipment and consistently follow all food safety and sanitation procedures is required.
• Must successfully pass a background check.

Nice To Haves

• High School Diploma or equivalent preferred.
• Previous experience in healthcare, institutional food service, school nutrition, or commercial food production preferred.
• Previous cooking or food preparation experience preferred.
• ServSafe Food Handler or Food Protection Manager Certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Prepare ingredients, side dishes, vegetables, proteins, and other food items for daily and future meal production using standardized recipes and batch cooking methods.
• Assist in the preparation of food for both Hot Production and Cold Production programs to ensure production schedules are met.
• Prepare food according to standardized recipes while maintaining quality, consistency, portion control, and presentation standards.
• Support daily meal production to ensure meals are completed accurately and on schedule.
• Maintain strict compliance with HACCP principles, sanitation standards, and all local, state, and federal food safety regulations.
• Monitor and document food temperatures throughout preparation, cooking, holding, and cooling processes.
• Report food quality concerns, equipment malfunctions, or safety issues promptly to the Hot Production Coordinator or Production Manager.
• Ensure all workstations, equipment, and food preparation areas remain clean, organized, and sanitized throughout the workday.
• Assist the Hot Production Coordinator in coordinating cook line activities and maintaining production workflow.
• Provide operational support and leadership assistance on the tray line as needed to maintain production efficiency and quality standards.
• Monitor food replenishment needs and communicate production requirements to the Hot Production Coordinator and tray line staff.
• Assist with setup, breakdown, and cleaning of production equipment and work areas.
• Support catering, Freezer Favorites production, and other special projects as assigned.
• Work collaboratively with the Production Manager, Production Coordinators, tray line staff, and kitchen team members to support efficient daily operations.
• Communicate proactively regarding production schedules, food needs, workflow concerns, and operational priorities.
• Encourage teamwork, professionalism, and a positive work environment.
• Assist fellow team members as needed to ensure departmental goals and production deadlines are achieved.
• Perform all other duties as assigned to support departmental and organizational goals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Part-time
• Career Level: Entry Level
• Education Level: High school or GED