Cooks Helper

Classification: Non-Exempt Salary Range: $19.75/hr Report to: Production Manager Date: April 2026 Job Description The Cook's Helper assists kitchen staff with preparing ingredients, maintaining cleanliness, and ensuring food is stored, handled, and prepared by Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) and company guidelines. This role plays a key part in maintaining a smooth workflow and consistent product quality. Essential Functions Assist kitchen staff with various tasks as needed and provide cooks with required ingredients, tools, and equipment. Clean and sanitize work areas, kitchen equipment, utensils, dishes, and silverware. Wash, peel, slice, dice, chop, weigh, or measure ingredients as directed by supervisors. Cut, slice, or grind meats, poultry, seafood, and vegetables to prepare cooking. Prepare a wide variety of foods following specific instructions, recipes, or specifications provided by supervisors. Accurately measure and portion ingredients according to production requirements. Label, store, and date food in designated containers and storage areas, following Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) procedures and proper rotation practices. Record quantities of food used or prepared for tracking and reporting purposes. Set up and break down cooking stations and assist with equipment operation under supervision. Follow all sanitation, hygiene, and safety regulations, including proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE) and food handling protocols. Communicate effectively with kitchen staff and supervisors regarding task status or supply needs. Skills & Qualifications Must be at least 18 years of age. High School Diploma or GED preferred. Knowledge of HACCP and food safety procedures. Familiarity with food preparation processes, including slicing, portioning, and measuring. Strong ability to measure and weigh ingredients accurately using appropriate units. Basic math skills for food prep calculations (addition, subtraction, unit conversions). Ability to read and understand instructions, labels, and safety procedures in English. Effective communication skills are needed to interact with supervisors and team members. Ability to follow directions and work as part of a team in a high-volume setting. Supervisory Responsibility This position has no supervisory responsibilities. Work Environment This position is located in a food manufacturing facility and involves working in areas that may be cold, hot, humid, or noisy. The environment includes exposure to strong food odors, allergens, and moving equipment. Employees must follow strict sanitation and safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE). Work may take place on wet or slippery surfaces. Schedules may include overtime, weekends, or holidays based on operational needs. Physical Demands Standing/Walking: Ability to stand and walk for prolonged periods, often on concrete or other hard surfaces. Lifting/Carrying: Frequently lift, carry, push, or pull objects up to 25 lbs. (occasionally more with assistance or equipment). Repetitive Motions: Use of hands and arms for repetitive tasks such as packing, sorting, or operating machinery. Reaching/Bending: Frequent reaching overhead, bending, stooping, and crouching throughout the shift. Manual Dexterity: Use of fine motor skills for tasks requiring precision and coordination, such as operating controls or using small tools. Climbing: Occasionally climb ladders or stairs to access equipment or elevated workstations. Visual Requirements: Ability to visually inspect products, labels, or equipment for quality and safety standards. Auditory Requirements: Ability to hear alarms, machine sounds, and verbal communication in a noisy environment. PPE Use: Must be able to wear the required personal protective equipment (e.g., gloves, hairnets, earplugs, safety glasses, safety shoes) for the duration of the shift. Position Type/Expected Hours of Work This is a full-time, non-exempt position. Standard hours and days of work may vary based on production schedules and operational needs, including flight schedules. Evening, weekend, and holiday work may be required, as well as occasional overtime. Travel No travel is required. Other Duties Please note that this job description is not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and activities associated with the position. Additional tasks may be assigned as necessary, and duties may change with or without notice. Benefits Medical, prescription drug coverage, dental, and vision insurance Life and disability insurance Accident, critical illness, and hospital indemnity plans Flexible spending accounts and employee assistance programs Retirement program (401k) with company match Tuition reimbursement and pet insurance MetLife- Legal Program #J-18808-Ljbffr