The Cafeteria Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking meals for students, faculty, and staff in a college cafeteria setting. This position requires adherence to established menu plans, food safety standards, and kitchen cleanliness procedures. The Cook must be able to handle a fast-paced environment, manage time effectively, and maintain high standards for food quality and hygiene.
Key Responsibilities:
Food Preparation and Cooking:
Prepare and cook daily lunch offerings based on the pre-established menu.
Cook a variety of dishes including hot entrees, side dishes, salads, and desserts.
Ensure that all food items are prepared in accordance with recipes, portion sizes, and dietary guidelines.
Adjust recipes as needed, particularly for special dietary needs or allergies.
Operate kitchen equipment such as ovens, stoves, grills, fryers, and other cooking tools.
Menu and Recipe Adherence:
Follow established recipes to prepare meals consistently.
Ensure that meals are prepared efficiently while maintaining quality and taste.
Assist in developing menus and making recommendations based on the seasonal availability of ingredients, dietary needs, and student preferences.
Food Safety and Sanitation:
Follow proper food safety and sanitation guidelines as mandated by local health codes and regulations.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, including workstations, utensils, and equipment.
Monitor and record food temperatures to ensure food safety standards are met.
Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces and utensils regularly.
Properly store food items and ingredients to avoid contamination.
Inventory and Stock Management:
Assist in the inventory of food supplies and ensure that sufficient ingredients are available for meal preparation.
Report any shortages or overstock issues to the Director.
Maintain proper storage techniques for ingredients, ensuring food is stored at the correct temperatures.
Team Collaboration:
Work as part of a team to ensure the timely preparation and delivery of meals.
Coordinate with other kitchen staff and food service workers to ensure smooth operation during mealtimes.
Assist in the training of new kitchen staff or student workers.
Customer Service:
Ensure food is served in an attractive and appetizing manner.
Assist in serving food to students, faculty, and staff, ensuring prompt service and maintaining a positive attitude.
Address any special dietary requests or food allergies when necessary.
Qualifications:
Education:
High School Diploma or equivalent required.
Serve Safe Food Handler Permit preferred
Experience:
Experience in a professional kitchen required.
Experience with large-scale meal preparation is a plus.
Skills:
Knowledge of food safety regulations and sanitation practices.
Strong culinary skills, with the ability to cook a variety of dishes.
Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate with kitchen staff and supervisors.
Good organizational skills and attention to detail.
Physical Requirements:
Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
Ability to work in a kitchen environment that may involve exposure to hot surfaces and equipment.
Work Environment:
The work is primarily performed in a kitchen environment within the college cafeteria.
Shifts are typically during lunch hours, with some flexibility required for preparation and cleanup.