Assistant Prep Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Job Title
Prep Cook — Restaurant Kitchen, Part-Time

Reports To
Executive Chef / Sous Chef

Job Purpose
The Prep Cook is responsible for supporting daily restaurant operations through consistent, organized, and efficient food preparation. This role is critical to ensuring the kitchen is properly stocked and prepared for service, with a focus on quality, cleanliness, and attention to detail.

As a part-time member of the culinary team, this position is expected to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment while supporting the restaurant line, daily mise en place, and overall kitchen execution. The Prep Cook works closely with the sous chefs and line cooks to ensure all ingredients, recipes, and prep items are completed according to culinary standards.

Schedule Expectations
Part-time position
Schedule will vary based on business levels and restaurant needs
Morning, afternoon, and occasional PM shifts may be required
Weekend and holiday availability preferred

Key Responsibilities
Restaurant Prep & Production
Execute assigned prep tasks for daily restaurant service
Prepare vegetables, proteins, starches, sauces, dressings, garnishes, and other mise en place according to recipe standards
Assist with bulk prep, portioning, marinating, blanching, cooking, cooling, and packaging of ingredients
Support the line by ensuring stations are properly stocked and organized before service
Follow chef direction and recipe specifications to maintain consistency and quality

Organization & Daily Execution
Complete assigned prep lists accurately and efficiently
Prioritize tasks based on restaurant service needs and chef direction
Maintain proper labeling, dating, cooling, storage, and rotation of all products
Keep prep areas, walk-ins, lowboys, and workstations clean, organized, and sanitary
Communicate completed prep, shortages, and product concerns to the culinary leadership team

Team Coordination
Work closely with sous chefs, line cooks, and fellow prep cooks to support daily restaurant operations
Assist other stations when needed to ensure the kitchen is prepared for service
Communicate clearly and professionally with the culinary team
Maintain a team-first attitude and willingness to support the overall success of the restaurant

Food Safety & Standards
Follow all food safety, sanitation, and allergen protocols
Maintain proper handling and storage of raw and cooked products
Follow correct cooling, reheating, and temperature-control procedures
Uphold cleanliness and organization standards in all kitchen areas
Safely handle knives, slicers, mixers, ovens, fryers, and other kitchen equipment

Inventory Awareness
Monitor product levels and communicate shortages in advance
Assist with receiving, storing, and organizing deliveries as needed
Use proper portioning and product utilization to help minimize waste
Rotate product properly using FIFO standards

Qualifications

Minimum 1+ year experience in a professional kitchen preferred
Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment
Basic understanding of food safety and sanitation practices
Ability to follow direction, recipes, and prep lists accurately
Strong attention to detail and organization
Availability for part-time shifts, including weekends and holidays as needed

Preferred
Experience in a restaurant, private club, hotel, or high-volume kitchen
Culinary training or equivalent hands-on experience
Knife skills and familiarity with basic cooking techniques
Experience with daily mise en place and station setup
Ability to work independently while staying aligned with chef direction

Skills & Performance Standards
Consistent execution of prep work with attention to quality and detail
Strong time management and ability to complete prep within assigned timelines
Clean, organized, and efficient work habits
Clear communication with chefs and team members
Ability to remain focused and productive during busy periods
Positive attitude and willingness to support all areas of the kitchen

Physical Requirements
Ability to stand for extended periods
Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
Comfortable working in high heat, cold storage areas, and fast-paced environments
Safe handling of knives, hot surfaces, and kitchen equipment
Ability to bend, reach, lift, carry, and move product throughout the shift