Homshuk - Prep Cook

Job Description

Job Description

About Company:

At Homshuk and Bodega 42, we’re passionate about bringing authentic Hispanic flavors to life. Homshuk is a modern, authentic Hispanic kitchen specializing in made-from-scratch cuisine, crafted with fresh ingredients sourced from our neighboring market, Bodega42. Our mission is simple: to share the flavors of passion and tradition while delivering exceptional customer service in a warm, diverse environment that celebrates our rich culinary heritage.

Right next door, Bodega 42 Fresh Market is your destination for authentic Mexican ingredients and flavors in the heart of Apple Valley, Minnesota. We proudly offer a wide selection of the freshest products, sourced directly from local farms and trusted suppliers, so you can elevate every culinary experience.

Together, we create a unique connection between kitchen and market—where quality, culture, and community come together.

About the Role:

The Prep Cook plays a crucial role in the kitchen by ensuring that all ingredients and supplies are prepared efficiently and to the highest quality standards before service begins. This position supports the culinary team by chopping, slicing, measuring, and organizing food items, which enables smooth and timely meal preparation. The Prep Cook must maintain a clean and sanitary work environment, adhering strictly to food safety regulations to prevent contamination and ensure customer safety. This role requires attention to detail, speed, and the ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately to contribute to the overall dining experience. Ultimately, the Prep Cook helps create a foundation for the kitchen’s success by preparing ingredients that allow chefs to focus on cooking and plating dishes promptly and consistently.

Minimum Qualifications:

• Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Ability to follow instructions and work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Previous experience in a food preparation or kitchen assistant role is preferred but not required.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Certification in food handling or food safety (e.g., ServSafe).
• Experience working in a professional kitchen or food service environment.
• Familiarity with kitchen equipment and culinary terminology.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team under pressure.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare and portion ingredients such as vegetables, fruits, meats, and seafood according to recipe specifications and kitchen standards.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the prep area, including washing dishes, utensils, and equipment used during preparation.
• Follow all food safety and sanitation guidelines to ensure a safe working environment and prevent foodborne illnesses.
• Assist chefs and kitchen staff by providing prepped ingredients in a timely manner to support efficient meal production.
• Monitor inventory levels of prep items and communicate shortages or needs to kitchen management.
• Dispose of waste properly and recycle materials when applicable to maintain an environmentally responsible kitchen.
• Participate in daily kitchen setup and closing duties to ensure readiness for service and proper storage of ingredients.

Skills:

The Prep Cook utilizes knife skills daily to efficiently and safely cut, chop, and prepare ingredients according to kitchen standards. Time management and organizational skills are essential to prioritize tasks and maintain a steady workflow during busy periods. Knowledge of food safety practices is applied continuously to ensure all food items are handled and stored properly, minimizing risk of contamination. Communication skills are important for coordinating with chefs and other kitchen staff to meet preparation deadlines and respond to changing needs. Additionally, physical stamina and manual dexterity are used throughout the shift to perform repetitive tasks and maintain a clean, orderly workspace.