Prep Cook

Job Summary:

The Prep Cook is responsible for supporting the culinary operation through the accurate and efficient preparation of ingredients and components required for menu execution. This role ensures all food items are prepared in accordance with established recipes, quality standards, and production timelines. The Prep Cook works collaboratively with the culinary team to maintain an organized, sanitary, and high-functioning kitchen environment, while adhering to all food safety and regulatory requirements.

Essential Job Duties and Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook a variety of dishes according to established recipes and standards
• Assist in menu planning and development, incorporating seasonal ingredients and customer preferences
• Ensure all food is prepared in a timely manner and meets quality and presentation standards
• Maintain the cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, including proper storage of food items
• Collaborate with team members to ensure efficient kitchen operations and assist in training new staff

Inventory & Ingredient Management:

• Assist with inventory control, ensuring that all ingredients are properly stocked and stored in accordance with safety guidelines.
• Help order and receive ingredients, ensuring that items are fresh, high-quality, and available for use.
• Monitor ingredient usage to minimize waste and ensure proper stock rotation (FIFO - First In, First Out).

Workstation Maintenance & Cleanliness:

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work area, including proper cleaning of equipment, utensils, and surfaces after use.
• Ensure all equipment is properly maintained and report any malfunctions to the Executive Sous Chef or management.
• Follow all health and safety guidelines, including food storage, handling, and sanitation protocols, to ensure a safe kitchen environment.

Health & Safety Compliance:

• Follow food safety and sanitation practices at all times, including the proper handling of ingredients, food storage, and cleaning procedures.
• Ensure that all food is prepared in accordance with dietary restrictions, allergies, and health guidelines when necessary.
• Adhere to local health and safety regulations, including temperature controls for perishables and safe equipment usage.

Education and/or Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent
• At least 2 years of experience in a professional kitchen environment
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations
• Culinary degree or certification from an accredited institution
• Experience in a high-volume kitchen or fine dining establishment
• Familiarity with various cooking techniques and cuisines

Skills/Specialized Knowledge

• Ability to follow recipes and adjust methods to ensure consistent product quality.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environment.
• Strong organizational skills, with the ability to maintain a clean and efficient workspace.

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand for long periods of time, including working over hot surfaces such as ovens and stoves.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy equipment or containers, up to 25-30 pounds.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by the needs of the kitchen.

Why Join Proper Hospitality

At Proper, we build experiences that move people - and that begins with the team behind them. As a best-in-class employer, we're committed to creating one of the Best Places to Work in hospitality by nurturing a culture where creativity, excellence, and humanity thrive together.

Everything we do is grounded in the belief that hospitality is more than a profession - it's an opportunity to care for others and make lives better. Guided by the Pillars of Proper, we show up with warmth and authenticity (Care Proper), strive for excellence in everything we do (Achieve Proper), think creatively and resourcefully (Imagine Proper), and take pride in the style and culture that make us who we are (Present Proper).

We believe our people are our greatest strength, and we invest deeply in their wellbeing, growth, and sense of belonging. From comprehensive benefits to meaningful development programs, Proper is designed to help you build a career, and a life, that feels as inspiring as the experiences we create for our guests.

Our Commitment: Building the Best Place to Work

Our Best Place to Work initiative is a living commitment - a continuous investment in our people, our culture, and our purpose. We listen, learn, and evolve together to create an environment where everyone feels empowered to imagine boldly, achieve confidently, care deeply, and present themselves authentically.

At Proper, joining the team means more than finding a job - it means joining a community that believes in building beautiful experiences together, for our guests and for one another.

Proper Hospitality is an equal-opportunity employer. We provide employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity or expression, genetics, or any other federally or state-protected category.