Entry-Level Kitchen Prep Cook

Job Summary

This entry-level kitchen role focuses on ingredient preparation, precise knife skills, and fundamental cooking techniques. The ideal candidate can efficiently perform industry-standard cuts, portion ingredients accurately, and maintain high-quality food preparation. Responsibilities include prepping ingredients, cooking according to recipes, and ensuring cleanliness and organization in the kitchen.

Opportunity to perform line cook duties based on experience and performance.

Part-time or Full-time based on availability.

Professional kitchen in the Westin Chattanooga servicing onsite restaurant and banquet operation.

• Perform professional knife cuts with accuracy and efficiency.
• Prepare ingredients by washing, peeling, chopping, and portioning fruits, vegetables, and proteins.
• Weigh, measure, and mix ingredients following standardized recipes.
• Cook food according to established recipes, quality, and presentation standards.
• Operate various kitchen equipment, including ovens, stoves, grills, microwaves, and fryers.
• Monitor food quality and test items to ensure proper cooking.
• Set up and break down workstations, ensuring proper organization and cleanliness.
• Serve food in correct portions and maintain proper food storage.
• Wash and disinfect kitchen areas, tools, knives, and equipment.
• Ensure correct temperatures for food and appliances, following safety and sanitation regulations.
• Stock kitchen stations with necessary supplies and assist in inventory management.
• Adhere to all Health Department regulations and company policies.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, including proper food storage and waste disposal.
• Communicate effectively and work collaboratively with coworkers and management.
• Perform additional duties as requested by management to support kitchen operations.
• Maintain confidentiality regarding company business matters.
• Report guest issues to the Manager on Duty.
• Wear the proper uniform at all times.

• Strong knife skills and ability to execute professional cuts efficiently.
• Understanding of portioning, measuring, and ingredient preparation.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, handling procedures, and kitchen safety regulations.
• Ability to operate and maintain kitchen equipment properly.
• Attention to detail and commitment to quality food preparation.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen environment.
• Ability to read and follow standardized recipes.
• Good communication skills and a professional attitude.
• Basic knowledge of various cooking techniques, ingredients, and equipment.
• Serv Safe certification preferred.

• High school diploma or G.E.D. preferred.
• At least six months of experience in a professional kitchen or equivalent training.
• Culinary education is a plus but not required.

• None.

• Stand/walk on feet for 8 hours and work in a restrictive space/environment.
• Must be able to work in extremely warm temperatures.
• Must have eyesight enabling vision both near and far.
• Finger dexterity to cut, cook, and prepare food.
• Must speak in a clear, understandable voice and hear at a basic level, and understand English.
• Must be able to bend, stretch arms overhead and lift and/or carry up to 40 pounds.
• Must be at least 18 years old to safely operate required machinery.

This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee(s) incumbent in this position. Employees will be required to follow any other job-related instructions and to perform any other job-related duties requested by any person authorized to give instructions or assignments.

The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and complies with ADA regulations as applicable. All duties and responsibilities are essential functions and requirements and are subject to possible modification to reasonably accommodate individuals with disabilities. To perform this job successfully, the incumbents will possess the skills, aptitudes, and abilities to perform each duty proficiently. Some requirements may exclude individuals who pose a direct threat or significant risk to the health or safety of themselves or others.

The requirements listed in this document are the minimum levels of knowledge, skills, or abilities.