Assistant Cook

Position Overview:

The Assistant Cook plays a vital role in supporting the kitchen team by preparing and cooking food in accordance with established recipes and procedures. This position ensures that meals are prepared efficiently, safely, and to the highest quality standards. The Assistant Cook will work closely with the Head Cook and other kitchen staff to maintain a clean and organized kitchen, ensuring all food is served in a timely manner while adhering to health and safety regulations.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Food Preparation: Assist in preparing and cooking a variety of foods according to established recipes, including soups, salads, entrees, and desserts.
• Cooking Assistance: Help with cooking tasks, such as grilling, frying, or boiling.
• Ingredient Handling: Measure and prepare ingredients, including chopping vegetables, marinating meats, and portioning food items for cooking.
• Food Safety: Follow food safety guidelines, including proper food handling, storage, and sanitation practices, ensuring that all food is prepared in a hygienic environment.
• Cleaning and Organization: Keep kitchen workstations, equipment, and utensils clean and organized. Maintain cleanliness in all areas of the kitchen, including washing dishes, utensils, and maintaining proper waste disposal.
• Inventory Assistance: Help monitor food inventory levels and notify the Head Cook when supplies are low, assisting with orders and stock rotation.
• Cooking Equipment: Operate kitchen equipment. such as stoves, ovens, fryers, and grills, with care and in compliance with safety regulations.
• Serving Assistance: Assist in plating food and preparing meal trays for cafeteria service, ensuring food presentation is consistent and appealing.
• Collaboration: Work as part of a team, supporting other kitchen staff, including dishwashers and servers, to ensure smooth operation during meal periods.
• Time Management: Ensure food preparation is completed on time, allowing meals to be served promptly during busy cafeteria hours.
• Customer Service Support: Occasionally assist with serving food or engaging with cafeteria customers, providing high-quality service.

Qualification

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: Working in a cafeteria, restaurant, or similar food service environment & Previous kitchen or food preparation experience is preferred, but not required.
• Knowledge: Basic understanding of food preparation and cooking techniques.
• Physical Ability: Ability to stand for extended periods, lift heavy objects (up to 30 lbs), and perform physical tasks like chopping, stirring, and cleaning.
• Communication: Good communication skills for working with the kitchen team and other staff members.
• Teamwork: Ability to work effectively in a team environment, under pressure, during busy meal service times.
• Attention to Detail: Focused on producing high-quality food with consistency and accuracy.
• Food Safety: Knowledge of health, safety, and sanitation guidelines, including safe food handling practices.