Prep Cook

Hope The Mission•Los Angeles, CA

29d•$0 - $21•Onsite

About The Position

Scratch cooking at scale begins before anything hits the heat. It begins with vegetables that are washed, peeled, and cut correctly. With ingredients that are measured accurately and ready on time. With a workstation that is organized and a kitchen that can move without stopping to find what it needs. The Prep Cook is responsible for that foundation — and without it, production does not happen. Reporting to the Chef de Cuisine, the Prep Cook supports HTM's high-volume meal production through ingredient preparation, portioning, basic cooking tasks, inventory monitoring, equipment operation, and workstation maintenance. Recipes are followed precisely. Ingredients are stored and labeled properly. Food safety standards are non-negotiable. This is an entry-level production role, but entry does not mean low-stakes. Every vegetable improperly cut, every ingredient mismeasured, every station left disorganized creates a ripple that affects everything downstream — including the meals served to people experiencing homelessness. Showing up with skill, consistency, and a genuine commitment to the work is what this role requires every day.

Requirements

Must pass pre-employment background check
Must pass pre-employment and ongoing drug and alcohol screenings
Must provide proof of legal authorization to work in the United States
Must comply with all HTM policies including safety, confidentiality, conduct, and HIPAA standards
Food Handler Certification required or must be obtained upon hire
Ability to read and follow recipes accurately
Ability to take direction from the Chef de Cuisine and Executive Chef
Ability to stand for extended periods throughout the full duration of the shift
Ability to carry, lift, push, and pull up to 50 lbs.
Ability to bend, stoop, squat, kneel, twist, and reach overhead regularly
Ability to perform repetitive hand and wrist motions throughout the shift
Ability to work weekends and holidays as required
Full-Time | Non-Exempt classification

Nice To Haves

Minimum two years of culinary experience in a professional kitchen
High-volume production experience preferred
High school diploma or GED required
Basic knife skills and understanding of kitchen safety required
Familiarity with food safety regulations and proper food handling and storage practices
Commitment to serving individuals and families experiencing homelessness
Working knowledge of ingredient preparation techniques including washing, peeling, chopping, portioning, and measuring
Ability to operate and maintain commercial kitchen equipment safely and effectively
Knowledge of food safety regulations and sanitation standards
Ability to follow recipes precisely and maintain consistency across high-volume production
Strong organizational and time management skills with attention to detail under time constraints
Ability to manage multiple prep tasks simultaneously and prioritize effectively
Ability to work calmly and effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment
Ability to collaborate with kitchen staff, bakers, dish team members, and volunteers

Responsibilities

Wash, peel, and chop vegetables, fruits, and other food items to recipe specifications
Measure and portion ingredients accurately according to established recipes
Assist with cooking food according to menus, special dietary or nutritional restrictions, and required portion sizes
Apportion and serve food to residents, employees, or patrons as directed
Follow recipes and production guidelines to maintain consistency in food quality and presentation
Monitor the quality of ingredients and finished dishes; report any issues to the supervisor promptly
Operate kitchen equipment including scales, ovens, steam kettles, braising pans, flat tops, steamers, slicers, food processors, and stovetops safely and efficiently
Maintain kitchen tools and utensils to ensure they are clean and in good working condition
Inspect all equipment and kitchen appliances regularly; report any malfunctions or safety concerns to the supervisor
Maintain a clean and sanitary workstation throughout the entire shift
Organize and clean all kitchen areas including dry storage, refrigeration, and freezer storage
Follow all food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards at all times
Assist with post-service cleanup including dishwashing as needed
Monitor inventory levels and notify the supervisor when supplies are running low
Restock ingredient bins and assist with putting away daily deliveries
Support chefs and kitchen staff with cooking tasks to ensure timely and smooth meal preparation
Assist the bakery team and dish team as needed
Work with volunteers and workers who support meal preparation and service
Assist with staff meals and special events as needed
Adapt to changes in menu or kitchen priorities as directed
Perform other duties as assigned