Kitchen Team Member (Miss J's Cafe)

The Kitchen Team Member at a diner plays a vital role in food preparation, cooking, and ensuring the kitchen runs efficiently. They work closely with chefs and kitchen staff to prepare quality food, maintain a clean and organized workspace, and follow safety and hygiene guidelines. This position is essential for delivering a great dining experience for customers. Key Responsibilities: Food Preparation: Prepare ingredients for cooking, such as chopping vegetables, marinating meats, and measuring ingredients. Follow recipes and menu specifications to ensure consistency and quality. Assist with the setup and organization of the kitchen, including ensuring all ingredients and tools are available and in good condition. Cooking and Cooking Assistance: Cook or assist in cooking dishes according to diner menu specifications. Monitor food while cooking to ensure it’s cooked to the correct temperature and quality standards. Operate kitchen equipment, such as grills, fryers, ovens, and stovetops, following all safety procedures. Cleanliness and Safety: Maintain a clean and organized kitchen, including cleaning countertops, equipment, and dishes. Follow all health, safety, and sanitation guidelines to ensure food safety and compliance with local regulations. Dispose of food waste and follow proper waste management protocols. Ensure proper food storage and handling to prevent cross-contamination and maintain freshness. Inventory Management: Assist with restocking kitchen supplies, such as ingredients, spices, and utensils. Monitor food inventory and notify management when supplies are low. Ensure the proper rotation of food stock (FIFO - First In, First Out) to minimize waste. Team Collaboration: Work efficiently with kitchen staff to meet customer demand and prepare food in a timely manner. Communicate effectively with front-of-house staff to ensure orders are completed and delivered promptly. Assist in the training of new kitchen staff when required. Adherence to Procedures: Follow the diner’s established cooking procedures, portion sizes, and presentation standards. Ensure proper handling of allergens and dietary restrictions when preparing food. Contribute to maintaining a positive and productive team atmosphere. Qualifications: Previous experience in a kitchen or food preparation role preferred, but not required. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and remain focused under pressure. Knowledge of food safety and sanitation procedures. Good communication and teamwork skills. Ability to operate kitchen equipment safely and effectively. Willingness to learn and follow kitchen protocols and procedures. Physical Requirements: Ability to stand for extended periods. Ability to lift up to 30-40 lbs. (e.g., boxes of ingredients, pots, etc.). Ability to work in a hot and busy kitchen environment. Work Environment: Fast-paced and high-pressure setting, especially during peak hours. Requires flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays. Must be comfortable working in a kitchen with hot surfaces and equipment.