Prep Cook in Espanola, New Mexico at Santa Clara Development Corporation

About the Role:

The Prep Cook plays a crucial role in the kitchen by ensuring that all ingredients are properly prepared and ready for use by the culinary team. This position supports chefs and cooks by performing essential food preparation tasks such as washing, chopping, and measuring ingredients, which directly impacts the efficiency and quality of meal production. The Prep Cook must maintain a clean and organized workspace, adhering to all food safety and sanitation standards to guarantee a safe dining experience for customers. This role requires attention to detail, the ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately, and the capacity to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment. Ultimately, the Prep Cook contributes to the smooth operation of the kitchen and helps deliver high-quality dishes to guests in a timely manner.

Minimum Qualifications:

• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Basic knowledge of food preparation and kitchen safety standards.
• Ability to follow instructions and work efficiently in a team environment.
• Physical ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.
• Legal authorization to work in the United States.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Previous experience working in a professional kitchen or food service environment.
• Food Handler’s Certification or ServSafe certification.
• Familiarity with kitchen equipment and culinary terminology.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure during busy service times.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare ingredients by washing, peeling, chopping, and measuring according to recipe specifications.
• Assist chefs and cooks by organizing and stocking workstations with necessary supplies and ingredients.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of the kitchen area, including utensils, equipment, and work surfaces.
• Follow all food safety guidelines and health regulations to ensure a safe working environment.
• Support the kitchen team by performing additional tasks such as assembling simple dishes or plating as needed.

Skills:

The Prep Cook utilizes basic culinary skills daily to prepare ingredients accurately and efficiently, ensuring the kitchen operates smoothly. Attention to detail is essential when measuring and cutting ingredients to meet recipe standards and maintain consistency. Communication skills are important for coordinating with chefs and other kitchen staff to prioritize tasks and manage workflow. Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices is applied continuously to maintain a clean and safe kitchen environment. Additionally, time management and the ability to work under pressure help the Prep Cook meet the demands of a fast-paced kitchen setting while supporting overall team success.