Prep/Cook

Prep Cook

The Prep Cook supports the kitchen team by preparing ingredients, maintaining an organized workstation, and ensuring food is prepared safely and consistently. This position follows established recipes, portion standards, sanitation procedures, and food-safety requirements.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

• Wash, peel, chop, slice, measure, and prepare ingredients according to recipes and production needs.
• Prepare sauces, dressings, marinades, vegetables, meats, and other menu components.
• Portion, label, date, rotate, and properly store food using FIFO procedures.
• Maintain stocked and organized prep stations.
• Follow recipes, portion standards, and presentation guidelines.
• Safely operate knives, slicers, food processors, mixers, and other kitchen equipment.
• Monitor food quality and promptly report shortages, spoilage, or equipment concerns.
• Maintain clean and sanitary work areas, utensils, equipment, coolers, and storage spaces.
• Follow all food-safety, sanitation, allergen-control, and workplace-safety procedures.
• Assist line cooks, dishwashing staff, and other team members as needed.
• Complete opening, closing, and assigned cleaning duties.
• Perform other job-related duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Prior restaurant or food-preparation experience preferred but not required.
• Basic knowledge of food preparation and kitchen sanitation practices.
• Ability to follow recipes, instructions, and production schedules.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Dependable attendance and punctuality.
• Food-handler certification preferred or required within the timeframe established by the Company.

Physical Requirements

The employee must be able to perform the essential functions of the position, with or without reasonable accommodation, including:

• Standing and walking for extended periods.
• Frequently bending, reaching, twisting, and using hands to handle kitchen tools and ingredients.
• Regularly lifting and carrying up to 40 pounds.
• Working around hot surfaces, sharp equipment, steam, cleaning products, and wet or slippery floors.
• Working in environments with varying temperatures, including refrigerators, freezers, and hot kitchen areas.

Work Expectations

The Prep Cook must maintain professional conduct, follow Company policies, communicate respectfully with coworkers, and comply with all applicable health, safety, and food-handling requirements.