Benefits:

401(k) matching

Bonus based on performance

Company parties

Competitive salary

Dental insurance

Flexible schedule

Free uniforms

Health insurance

Paid time off

Training & development

Vision insurance

Position Summary: We are seeking a detail-oriented and efficient Meal Prep Cook to join our kitchen team. The Meal Prep Cook is responsible for preparing high-quality meals according to standardized recipes, ensuring ingredients are fresh, and maintaining a clean and organized workspace. This role includes pre-cooking, portioning, and packaging meals for distribution, while catering to various dietary needs and preferences. The Meal Prep Cook collaborates with the kitchen team to ensure all meals meet company standards for taste, presentation, and dietary compliance.

Essential Functions: To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to satisfactorily perform each of the essential responsibilities listed below.

Prepare and cook meals according to standardized recipes, ensuring consistency in taste, quality, and presentation.

Ensure all ingredients are fresh, properly stored, and available in sufficient quantities; monitor stock levels and report shortages.

Accurately portion and package meals, labeling them correctly with relevant information such as ingredients, allergens, and expiration dates.

Prepare meals that cater to specific dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-calorie diets.

Assist with maintaining kitchen cleanliness, including washing dishes, cleaning equipment, and ensuring all workspaces are organized and sanitized while adhering to health and safety regulations.

Assist in tracking ingredient usage, minimizing waste, and helping with reordering supplies.

Work closely with other kitchen staff to ensure smooth and efficient operations; communicate any issues or delays promptly.

Ensure the quality of meals prepared consistently meets or exceeds company standards and customer expectations.

Effectively manage time to adhere to meal prep schedules and meet deadlines without compromising quality.

Maintain flexibility with scheduling to accommodate business needs, including shifts during early mornings, evenings, or weekends.

Secondary Functions:

Assisting with Food Packing and Delivery

Supporting Event and Catering Operations

Equipment Maintenance and Kitchen Organization

Provide feedback or ideas for improving recipes or introducing new dishes.

Be available to work weekends, holidays, or evenings as required by the business.

Other duties as assigned.

Knowledge & Skills

To perform this job successfully, an individual must meet the minimum qualifications listed below. These qualifications are representative of the knowledge, skill and/or ability required to perform this job:

Proven experience as a cook or in meal preparation, preferably in a meal prep service or similar environment.

Knowledge of cooking techniques, dietary restrictions, and food safety regulations.

Ability to follow recipes accurately and adjust for portion sizes or dietary needs.

Strong organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize tasks.

Attention to detail and a commitment to high-quality meals.

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining consistency and quality.

Education & Experience:

High school diploma or equivalent; culinary training preferred.

Basic understanding of nutrition and dietary requirements is a plus.

Professional Certifications (Optional but Advantageous):

Food Safety and Sanitation Certification (e.g., ServSafe Manager Certification).

Physical Requirements:

Regularly required to stand for extended periods of time; stand; walk; stoop; kneel; reach with hands and arms; talk and hear.

Manual dexterity required to handle knives, kitchen tools, and equipment.

Frequently lift and/or move up to 50 pounds, including large pots, pans, and bulk food supplies.

Perform repetitive motions such as chopping, stirring, and kneading for extended periods.

Ability to visually inspect food for quality and presentation standards.

Ability to detect flavors, aromas, and textures to ensure food quality.

Equipment / Tools Utilized:

Commercial kitchen equipment, including ovens, grills, fryers, and mixers.

Knives and other culinary tools.

Inventory tracking tools, labeling devices, and packaging supplies.

Environment/Working Conditions

Position is in a fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environment.

Regular exposure to heat, steam, cold, and potential hazards such as slippery floors and sharp objects.

Noise levels typical of a busy commercial kitchen.

Ability to handle high-pressure situations with professionalism and focus.

May occasionally work holidays, and evenings as required by business needs.

Work areas are in close proximity, requiring focus despite moderate distractions and noise.

NOTE: Down to Earth Cuisine retains the discretion to add to or change the duties of the position at any time.

Pay Range: $20-$22hr depending on experience

Part-time 24 hours/week to start with the potential for adjustments based on business needs and performance. Work Days are Friday, Saturday and Sundays

Hourly non-exempt

Medical, Dental, Vision Insurance (after 60 days of employment)

Paid Time Off