Cocinera FT

Vallarta Supermarkets; Modesto (CA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 26,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health plan and dental/vision benefits

Life insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Paid vacation

Legal services access

Job summary

Vallarta Supermarkets in Modesto, CA is seeking a Cook to prepare authentic Mexican and Central American dishes from scratch, including guisados, soups, salsas, mole, rice, and beans. You will join a fast-paced Taqueria department and provide outstanding customer service while maintaining food safety and cleanliness.

Ideal candidates have experience as a restaurant cook or prep helper, basic English, and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.

Qualifications

• Knowledge of authentic Mexican and Central American dishes.
• Experience as a restaurant cook or prep helper.
• Basic English proficiency.
• Ability to work safely in a fast-paced kitchen.
• Legal authorization to work in the U.S.
• Willingness to work flexible schedules.

Responsibilities

• Provide outstanding, prompt, and courteous service.
• Prepare and cook menu items from scratch to Vallarta standards.
• Gather, wash, and prepare ingredients.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area.
• Follow food safety, health code, and sanitation practices.
• Follow dress code policies and change apron as needed.
• Treat coworkers and customers with respect at all times.
• Use equipment safely and report issues immediately.

Skills

Authentic Mexican cooking

Kitchen tools familiarity

Restaurant cook experience

Basic English

Food safety awareness

Team oriented

Authorized to work in US

Job description

PAYSCALE:

$18.36 - $18.92

Join the Vallarta Supermarkets Family!

At Vallarta Supermarkets, we’re more than just a grocery store, we’re a vibrant part of the communities we serve. We’re seeking friendly, service-oriented individuals who take pride in delivering extraordinary customer experiences and thrive in a fast-paced, festive environment. If you’re passionate about fresh, quality baked goods and love making people smile, we’d love to meet you!

About the Role

The Cook prepares and cooks authentic Mexican and Central American dishes from scratch, including guisados, soups, salsas, mole, rice, and beans. This role also assists in gathering and prepping ingredients, maintains cleanliness in the kitchen, and ensures food safety and sanitation while providing excellent customer service.

What You’ll Do

• Provide outstanding, prompt, and courteous service.

• Work as a team member and assist coworkers as needed.

• Prepare and cook from scratch all menu items (guisados, soups, salsa, mole, rice, beans, etc.) consistently to Vallarta standards.

• Gather, wash, and prepare food ingredients.

• Communicate ingredients and supply needs, including inventory of prepared food, to management.

• Transport products to coolers and storage areas.

• Maintain a clean and organized work area.

• Follow food safety, health code regulations, personal hygiene, and sanitation practices.

• Follow dress code policies, changing apron/smock as needed.

• Treat coworkers and customers respectfully at all times.

• Use equipment and tools safely, report equipment issues immediately.

• Abide by company rules and Employee Handbook policies.

• Perform additional duties as assigned.

Physical Requirements

• Stand and walk constantly (6–8+ hours/day).

• Frequently bend neck/waist, squat, twist, and reach above/below shoulders.

• Frequent repetitive use of hands for grasping, power grasping, fine manipulation, pushing, and pulling.

• Lift and carry up to 25 lbs. frequently, up to 50 lbs. occasionally.

• Heaviest item: tray of cooked beans (30–35 lbs.), carried 25–50 feet.

• Exposure to extremes in temperature or humidity.

• No driving, heavy machinery, or work at heights required.

What We’re Looking For

• Knowledge of authentic Mexican and Central American food preparation.

• Familiarity with kitchen tools and equipment.

• Some experience as a restaurant cooks or prep helper.

• Basic understanding of English language.

• Ability to work safely in a fast-paced environment.

• Respectful, professional, and team-oriented attitude.

• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.

Work Environment

• Fast-paced Taqueria department with direct customer interaction.

• Exposure to perishable products, kitchen equipment, and changing conditions.

• Collaborative, team-focused workplace.

• Must be able to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Benefits

Full-Time Team Members

• Health medical plan: $25/week, plus free dental & vision.

• Free $25,000 Basic Life and AD&D Insurance.

• 401(k) Retirement Plan.

• Paid vacation.

• Access to legal services.

Part-Time & Full-Time Benefits

• Paid sick time.

• Premium pay for holidays.

• Scholarship opportunities.

• Savings marketplace & credit union membership.

• Recognition programs (birthdays, years of service, spirit days, etc.).

We offer positions to match your lifestyle and career goals. Whether you’re seeking part-time or full-time, Vallarta Supermarkets provides a dynamic and rewarding workplace with?real opportunities for growth.