Prep Cook — Fast-Paced Kitchen, Growth & Perks

Sawmill Restaurant Group; England; On-site; GBP 18,000 - 24,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Gratuities

Free parking

Discounted food & beverages

Career growth opportunities

Job summary

Sawmill Restaurant Group is seeking a Prep-Cook to support busy kitchen operations with washing, chopping, and preparing ingredients according to recipes. You will organize storage areas and assist in maintaining cleanliness and safety standards throughout the prep area.

In a fast-paced environment, you’ll work closely with the kitchen team, handle inventory, and help ensure dishes meet quality expectations. Evening/weekend shifts and a positive attitude are valued.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a dishwasher, prep‑cook or a similar role is preferred but not mandatory.
• Basic knowledge of proper food handling and sanitation practices.
• Physical stamina to stand for long periods, lift heavy objects and perform repetitive tasks.
• Ability to work in a fast‑paced environment and maintain composure under pressure.
• Organizational skills.
• Excellent attention to detail, ensuring that dishes and equipment are thoroughly cleaned and sanitized.
• Strong communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively with other team members.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends and holidays as per the needs of the restaurant.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and execute a variety of cooking ingredients by washing, chopping vegetables, cutting meat and other meal prep items following established recipes and guidelines.
• Prepare kitchen tools necessary for cooking and cleaning, wash dishes, sanitize work surfaces, and clear/clean up prep areas.
• Undertake basic cooking duties, such as reducing sauces and parboiling food. Prepare simple dishes such as salads and desserts.
• Unpack incoming inventory, label, stock, and store to their appropriate areas.
• Adhere to strict food safety and sanitation standards, including proper handling, storage and labeling of ingredients (following safe thawing and cooling protocols), cooking foods to food-safe temperatures and maintaining a clean and organized work area.
• Set up and stock workstations with all necessary supplies and ingredients before the start of each shift, ensuring a smooth and efficient service.
• Ensure that all dishes leaving the kitchen meet the restaurant’s quality standards in terms of taste, appearance and portion size.
• Work closely with the kitchen team, including chefs and line cooks, and maintain a harmonious and efficient working environment.
• Assist in monitoring and controlling inventory levels, notifying the kitchen manager or supervisor of any shortages or discrepancies.
• Participate in cleaning and maintenance tasks, including equipment cleaning, dishwashing and kitchen organization, to uphold cleanliness standards and ensure a safe working environment.

Skills

Food preparation

Food safety

Teamwork

Attention to detail

Physical stamina

Job description

Sawmill Restaurant Group is seeking a Prep-Cook to support busy kitchen operations with washing, chopping, and preparing ingredients according to recipes. You will organize storage areas and assist in maintaining cleanliness and safety standards throughout the prep area.

In a fast-paced environment, you’ll work closely with the kitchen team, handle inventory, and help ensure dishes meet quality expectations. Evening/weekend shifts and a positive attitude are valued.