Prep Cook Job Summary: The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing ingredients and performing basic cooking tasks to assist chefs and line cooks in creating dishes according to the restaurant's standards. This position plays a vital role in ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently, maintaining cleanliness, organization, and readiness for service.
Key Responsibilities: - Ingredient Preparation: Wash, peel, chop, slice, and prepare fruits, vegetables, meats, and other ingredients for cooking or service.
- Measure and Mix Ingredients: Accurately measure and prepare ingredients for recipes, following kitchen standards.
- Pre-Cooking Tasks: Perform basic cooking tasks such as parboiling, blanching, or roasting ingredients as needed for more complex dishes.
- Food Portioning: Weigh and portion food accurately, ensuring consistent dish preparation.
- Stocking: Ensure all prep stations are stocked and organized with the necessary ingredients, tools, and supplies.
- Food Safety: Follow all safety and sanitation guidelines, including proper food handling, labeling, and storage procedures.
- Cleanliness: Maintain a clean and orderly kitchen by washing and sanitizing work areas, equipment, and utensils during and after shifts.
- Waste Management: Dispose of waste properly and monitor the kitchen for potential safety hazards, reporting them to the kitchen manager as needed.
- Support Line Cooks: Assist line cooks and chefs during service by providing prepped ingredients and maintaining readiness in the kitchen.
Qualifications: - Experience: Previous experience in a prep cook or kitchen role is preferred but not required; culinary training is a plus.
- Knowledge: Basic knowledge of cooking techniques, kitchen equipment, and food safety standards.
- Physical Ability: Must be able to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs, and work in a fast-paced environment.
- Work Ethic: Detail-oriented with excellent organizational skills and a strong commitment to cleanliness.
- Team Player: Ability to follow instructions, communicate effectively, and work well with others in a collaborative kitchen environment.
- Availability: Must be available to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, and evenings.
Work Environment: - Busy kitchen environment with exposure to various kitchen equipment, hot surfaces, and sharp objects.
- Standing for long periods and performing repetitive tasks.