Prep Cook - Commercial Aviation Catering

Abby's Catering•Houston, TX

10d

About The Position

The Prep Cook supports daily culinary production for Abby’s Catering, preparing and presenting meals to specification while meeting company standards for quality, presentation, and food safety. The role is based in a fast-paced, high-volume culinary operation serving private, corporate, and commercial aircraft, as well as corporate offices, private and corporate events, and food service management contracts. The position requires strong culinary technique, attention to detail, and efficient, independent work. The cook follows recipes and specifications, supports production schedules and Kitchen Ready Times, maintains organized storage and product rotation, minimizes waste, and operates kitchen equipment safely. The role reports to the Executive Chef / Sous Chef. Work includes extended periods in a 41°F cold room and rotating shifts in a 24/7 operation, including weekends, holidays, and overtime. The employee must read and interpret loading instructions, diagrams, and menu specifications. Abby’s emphasizes locally sourced, sustainable ingredients, personalized service, fiscal responsibility, food safety, and its CATCH values: Customer Service, Accountability, Teamwork, Competitiveness, and Honesty.

Requirements

At least 3 years of hands-on experience as a Line Cook or in a similar role within a high-volume, complex culinary operation.
Valid Food Protection Manager Certificate (e.g., ServSafe) recognized by local authorities.
Working knowledge of HACCP, food safety programs, and industry standards.
Strong hot- and cold-preparation skills, including knife techniques.
Solid understanding of ingredients, cooking methods, and attractive food presentation.
Bilingual English/Spanish verbal communication.
Legal authorization to work in the United States without sponsorship.
Flexible availability, including weekends and holidays.
Ability to work in a 41°F cold room for extended periods as needed.
Ability to work rotating shifts, weekends, holidays, and overtime in a 24/7 operation.
Ability to multitask, stay composed under pressure, adapt quickly to change, and work effectively with minimal supervision.

Nice To Haves

Airline catering industry experience.
A genuine passion for gourmet food and exceptional customer experiences.
A creative mindset.
Meticulous attention to detail and strong time management.
A positive, energetic team-player approach and commitment to Abby’s CATCH core values.

Responsibilities

Follow recipes, specifications, and directions precisely, using tools such as scales and scoops.
Complete daily food safety documentation accurately.
Support the team in completing production and meeting Kitchen Ready Times.
Prepare, cook, and present meals to specification.
Break down and trim proteins as needed.
Maintain clean, organized storage areas and ensure proper product rotation.
Minimize overproduction and waste.
Operate a variety of kitchen equipment safely and effectively.
Apply HACCP cooling procedures correctly.
Meet or exceed food safety and quality standards.
Communicate effectively with team members and senior management.
Read and interpret loading instructions, diagrams, and menu specifications.
Work independently with minimal supervision.