Early Am Prep Cook Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Join Maple Hospitality Group, where culinary excellence meets unparalleled service. Led by renowned restaurateur Jim Lasky and two-Michelin-starred Chef Danny Grant, known for his innovative approach to fine dining, we're building a team of passionate food lovers dedicated to creating iconic destinations.

We believe success hinges on impeccable food, world-class service, and one-of-a-kind dining experiences. As we expand across Chicago, Scottsdale, Dallas, and Miami, you'll find endless opportunities for growth, travel, and continuing education.

Our culture is built on four core principles:

• Generosity: Always give more, exceed expectations.

• Excellence: Deliver exceptional work with unmatched expertise.

• Fun: Love what you do, laugh often, and enjoy the journey.

• Fail Fast: Learn from mistakes, adapt, and keep improving.

Job Title: Prep Cook
Department: BOH
Reports To: Pastry Chef or Executive Chef
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt, Hourly
Job Type: Full-Time or Part-Time, AM 
Work Location: On-site — Santa Barbara, CA
Salary Range: $18 - $20 per hour
Posting Date: 04/23/2025

Job Summary

The Prep Cook plays a critical role in supporting kitchen operations by preparing ingredients and ensuring readiness for service. This includes cleaning, chopping, portioning, and organizing ingredients, as well as maintaining a clean and sanitary work environment. Prep Cooks work under the direction of chefs and contribute to food quality, efficiency, and kitchen flow.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

• Wash, peel, chop, cut, and prepare ingredients according to recipes and prep lists.
• Measure and portion ingredients accurately.
• Label and store food items properly in accordance with food safety standards.
• Maintain a clean and organized station at all times.
• Assist with basic cooking tasks (e.g., assembling dishes, heating items).
• Monitor food storage for spoilage or contamination.
• Support dishwashing and cleaning duties as needed.
• Follow health, safety, and sanitation guidelines at all times.

Required Qualifications

• Ability to follow verbal and written instructions in English.
• Strong attention to detail and ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
• Basic knife skills and understanding of kitchen safety.
• Team-oriented attitude and willingness to support other kitchen roles.

Preferred Qualifications

• 6+ months of experience in a commercial kitchen or food prep environment.
• Food Handler’s Certification (obtain prior to hire date)
• Familiarity with basic food allergens and safe handling procedures.
• Bilingual in English/Spanish is a plus.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Must be able to stand and walk for extended periods, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds occasionally, with or without reasonable accommodation.
• Frequent bending, stooping, pushing carts, and reaching for supplies.
• Ability to work in hot, humid, and fast-paced kitchen environments.
• Must be able to operate dish machines and handle cleaning chemicals safely, with training and PPE provided.

Reasonable Accommodation Statement 

Maple Hospitality Group will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA). If you need assistance or accommodation due to a disability, please contact hr@maplehgroup.com

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement

Maple Hospitality Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a workplace free from discrimination or harassment. Employment decisions are made based on merit, qualifications, and business needs, and not on the basis of race, color, national origin, ancestry, citizenship, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, breastfeeding, or related conditions), gender, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, religion, disability (mental and physical), medical condition, genetic information, marital status, military and veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable federal, state, or local law, including the California Fair Employment and Housing Act (FEHA).

Pay Transparency (California SB 1162 Compliance)

This position is expected to pay within the range of $15 - $18 per hour, depending on experience, qualifications, and location. This range reflects the base pay for this role and does not include other compensation or benefits.

Work Location

8301 Hollister Avenue

Santa Barbara, CA 93117

What You Need to Bring to the Table  

• Must hold a Food Handlers certificate from an ANSI-accredited program

• 1+ years of experience as a prep cook, preferably in a high-intensity, high-volume kitchen

• Excellent knife skills

• Must be able to multitask and maintain a clean and orderly work area

• Flexible hours are required (days, nights, weekends, and holidays)

• Must possess a sense of urgency while maintaining attention to detail

This role requires the ability to move and lift up to 25 lbs. Standing, sitting, or walking for extended periods of time and ensuring a professional appearance in a clean uniform are also required. 

Maple Hospitality Group is an equal opportunity employer committed to hiring a diverse workforce and supporting an inclusive culture. Maple Hospitality Group does not discriminate on the basis of disability, gender, veteran status, or any other basis protected under federal, state, or local law