food preparation worker

***RFI response***

The Prep Cook plays a critical support role in the daily operation of the kitchen by preparing ingredients, maintaining organization, and ensuring line cooks have everything needed to produce high-quality pizzas and menu items efficiently. This position is responsible for food preparation, stocking stations, maintaining cleanliness, following food safety standards, and assisting cooks throughout service. Prep Cooks work in a fast-paced environment where organization, consistency, and attention to detail are essential.

Food Preparation

Wash, peel, slice, chop, dice, and portion vegetables, fruits, herbs, and other produce.

Prepare pizza toppings such as pepperoni, sausage, bacon, grilled chicken, meatballs, ham, vegetables, cheeses, and specialty ingredients according to recipes and portion standards. Prepare sauces, dressings, marinades, soups, and other recipes following established procedures.

Grate, shred, slice, and portion cheeses.

Prepare dough ingredients or assist with dough production, proofing, and portioning as directed.

Portion proteins and other ingredients into containers for use during service.

Label, date, and rotate prepared food using First In, First Out (FIFO) inventory procedures.

Kitchen Organization Stock and replenish cook line stations, pizza make tables, refrigerated units, and storage areas throughout the day.

Organize walk-in coolers, freezers, and dry storage to ensure products are easily accessible and properly rotated.

Monitor ingredient levels and communicate shortages to kitchen management.

Assist with receiving deliveries by checking product quality, verifying quantities, rotating inventory, and storing products properly. Support During Service

Restock ingredients, sauces, and supplies as needed during meal periods.

Retrieve products from storage for cooks during busy service.

Assist with preparing additional ingredients when unexpected demand arises.

Help assemble simple menu items when directed and when business needs require.

Cleaning and Sanitation Clean and sanitize food preparation surfaces, cutting boards, utensils, equipment, and sinks throughout each shift.

Wash dishes, sheet pans, food containers, mixing bowls, and kitchen utensils using commercial dishwashing equipment and manual washing procedures.

Sweep and mop kitchen floors.

Remove trash and recycling and replace liners.

Maintain compliance with company sanitation standards and all applicable health department regulations. Properly store cleaning chemicals and use them safely according to manufacturer instructions.

Quality and Food Safety

Follow standardized recipes and portion specifications.

Maintain safe food temperatures during preparation and storage.

Prevent cross-contamination by following proper food handling procedures.

Wear required personal protective equipment and maintain proper personal hygiene. Report food quality concerns, equipment issues, or safety hazards to management immediately.

Preparation Equipment

Commercial mixers

Dough mixers

Dough sheeters (where applicable)

Food processors

Vegetable slicers

Cheese graters

Meat slicers

Immersion blenders

Portioning equipment

Cooking and Storage Equipment

Refrigerators

Walk-in coolers

Freezers

Pizza make tables

Prep tables

Stainless steel work surfaces

Shelving units

Ingredient bins Food storage containers

Cambros and hotel pans

Cleaning Equipment

Three-compartment sinks

Commercial dishwashing machines

Sanitizer buckets

Cleaning cloths

Brushes

Mops

Brooms

Dustpans

Trash containers

Approved cleaning and sanitizing chemicals

***Original***

Perform a variety of temporary and full-time food preparation duties other than cooking such as preparing cold foods and shellfish, slicing meat and brewing coffee or tea. Duties may also include organization of food storage, inventory of food items, cleaning kitchen equipment and assisting cooks with various tasks as needed.