Short Order Cook

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Short Order Cook (Pizzas, Sandwiches & Salads)

Location: Ventura’s Offshore Cafe – 2015 Shore Rd, Northfield, NJ 08225

Position Type: Full-Time

Department: Back of House (BOH)

Compensation: $19.00 / hour

Job Summary

Ventura’s Offshore Cafe is looking for an energetic, reliable, and detail-oriented Short Order Cook to join our fast-paced kitchen team. In this role, you will be responsible for preparing high-quality pizzas, fresh salads, and custom sandwiches to order. If you thrive in a high-volume restaurant setting, take pride in consistent food quality, and work well as part of a close-knit team, we want to hear from you!

Key Responsibilities

• Food Preparation & Assembly: Prepare and execute orders for pizzas, hot and cold sandwiches, paninis, and specialty salads accurately and in a timely manner.
• Station Setup & Prep: Maintain line integrity by prepping ingredients (chopping vegetables, slicing meats/cheeses, preparing sauces, and dressing portions) before and during meal shifts.
• Quality & Portion Control: Ensure all menu items meet Ventura’s standards for recipe accuracy, presentation, taste, and temperature control.
• Speed & Efficiency: Execute short-order tickets quickly during peak lunch and dinner rushes without compromising food quality or presentation.
• Cleanliness & Food Safety: Maintain strict compliance with state and local health standards, keeping your station, utensils, and equipment clean, sanitized, and organized throughout your shift.
• Inventory & Restocking: Monitor ingredient levels at your station, communicate restocking needs to management, and ensure proper stock rotation (FIFO).
• Teamwork: Work collaboratively with fellow line cooks, prep crew, and front-of-house staff to ensure smooth service operations.

Qualifications & Skills

• Experience: 1+ years of line cook or short-order cook experience in a fast-paced restaurant environment preferred.
• Language: Bilingual / Ability to speak Spanish is a plus.
• Food Knowledge: Familiarity with pizza dough handling/baking, sandwich/deli station prep, and salad assembly.
• Technical Skills: Basic knife skills, operation of commercial kitchen equipment (slicers, ovens, fryers, flattops), and food safety awareness.
• Certifications: ServSafe certification is a plus (or willingness to obtain).
• Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods, work in a warm environment, and lift up to 40–50 lbs when handling inventory.
• Attributes: Strong communication, time management, reliability, and the ability to maintain composure during high-volume periods.