Job Description
Kitchen Prep Cook OPENING SHIFT (HIGH-END CAFÉ)
We are seeking an organized, reliable, and detail-oriented Kitchen Prep Cook to lead the opening shift in a high-end café. This role is responsible for ensuring that all food preparation, mise en place, grab-and-go items, and breakfast offerings are ready for service before the café opens. The ideal candidate is efficient, calm under pressure, and maintains exceptional standards of cleanliness and product quality.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
•Opening Duties & Mise en Place
Arrive early to open the kitchen, turn on equipment, and prepare workstations for the day.
•Complete all required prep for the café’s morning service, including pastries, breakfast items, salads, grab-and-go, and menu components needed later in the day.
•Portion, label, and organize ingredients using proper food safety procedures.
•Ensure the grab-and-go fridge is fully stocked, clean, and visually appealing before customer arrival.
Food Preparation
•Prepare ingredients based on daily prep lists, recipe specifications, and portion standards.
•Assemble salads, sandwiches, pastries, snacks, and specialty items as directed.
•Assist in preparing soups, sauces, roasted items, sides, and protein portions according to café standards.
•Monitor quality, taste, and consistency of all prepared items.
Kitchen Organization & Sanitation
•Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary workspace throughout the shift.
•Perform opening cleaning tasks, including wiping surfaces, sanitizing equipment, and organizing fridges.
•Follow all food safety protocols including FIFO (First In, First Out), proper storage temperatures, and accurate labeling.
•Support dishwasher tasks as needed to maintain workflow.
Inventory & Equipment
•Report low inventory to the Back of House Manager or Owner to ensure adequate daily supply.
•Ensure all prep equipment (slicers, mixers, knives, ovens, etc.) is used safely and cleaned properly.
•Maintain accurate portioning to support cost control and menu consistency.
Team Communication & Coordination
•Communicate effectively with baristas, BOH team, and front-of-house staff to ensure smooth service.
•Provide handover notes for staff who take over after the morning rush.
•Collaborate with management to improve prep systems, efficiency, and menu execution.
QUALIFICATIONS
•Previous experience as a prep cook or kitchen assistant preferred.
•Strong knife skills and comfort working with commercial kitchen equipment.
•Ability to follow recipes, portion guidelines, and café standards precisely.
•Excellent time-management skills, especially during early-morning prep.
•Understanding of basic food safety and sanitation procedures (Food Handler Certification an asset).
•Ability to work independently with minimal supervision.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
•Ability to stand for long periods and work in a fast-paced environment.
•Ability to lift up to 30–40 lbs and perform repetitive tasks safely.
•Comfortable working early mornings.
WHAT WE OFFER
•A supportive, professional kitchen environment.
•Opportunities for training, development, and future advancement.
•Staff discounts on café food, beverages, and retail items.
•Consistent morning shifts with predictable hours.
•A clean, modern, high-end workspace.
(E) laquilacafeecucina@gmail.com
ATTN : Lauren Morris
