Cook - Prep

Ideal; Richmond (VA); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A culinary establishment in Richmond, Virginia, is seeking a Prep Cook eager to support the kitchen team in a fast-paced environment. The successful candidate will be responsible for ingredient preparation, ensuring food safety, and assisting with basic cooking tasks. Understanding of knife skills and food storage is crucial. The ideal Prep Cook will maintain a clean workspace, operate efficiently under minimal supervision, and possess excellent organizational skills. This role offers a chance to work in a dynamic kitchen setting.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a prep cook or line cook in a restaurant, commissary, or catering environment.
• Excellent understanding of various cooking methods, knife skills, ingredients, equipment, and kitchen procedures.
• Must understand and execute food safety and sanitation protocols.

Responsibilities

• Chop, slice, dice, mince, and julienne ingredients to specifications.
• Prepare basic sauces, stocks, and dressings following recipes.
• Properly label, store, and rotate all prepared ingredients following FIFO protocols.
• Use various knives and kitchen tools to prepare ingredients safely and efficiently.
• Assist in preparing simple dishes such as steaming vegetables or assembling ingredients.
• Regularly clean prep areas, surfaces, utensils, and equipment.
• Follow all food safety and OSHA regulations.

Skills

Knife skills

Ingredient preparation

Food safety knowledge

Basic cooking techniques

Tools

Knife set

Job description

Ideal is looking for energetic and hardworking team members who are comfortable working in fast‑paced kitchen environments. Prep Cooks are passionate about food and support leading chefs with ingredient preparation, basic cooking, and simple dishes such as salads and entrees. Successful candidates multitask, operate with minimal supervision, and carefully follow directions. Prep Cooks maintain a clean and orderly kitchen by washing dishes, sanitizing surfaces, and taking out trash.

Cook - Prep

Supports the kitchen by preparing ingredients, sauces, stocks, and components used throughout service. Expertise in knife skills, food storage, and basic cooking techniques is required. Familiar with the proper handling of meats, vegetables, and fruits, as well as ensuring all ingredients are labeled and stored according to food safety standards. Maintains the flow of the kitchen by ensuring everything is prepared and organized for the chefs and line cooks.

Responsibilities

• Ingredient Preparation: Chop, slice, dice, mince, and julienne ingredients to specifications, ensuring uniformity and proper portioning.
• Sauces & Stocks: Prepare basic sauces, stocks, and dressings following recipes, ensuring they are made in advance and stored correctly.
• Storage & Labeling: Properly label, store, and rotate all prepared ingredients following FIFO (First In, First Out) protocols to ensure freshness.
• Knife Skills: Use various knives and kitchen tools to prepare ingredients safely and efficiently.
• Cooking Assistance: Assist in preparing simple dishes such as steaming vegetables or assembling ingredients.
• Maintaining Cleanliness: Regularly clean prep areas, surfaces, utensils, and equipment to maintain a hygienic kitchen.
• Safety Protocols: Follow all food safety and OSHA regulations, including temperature control, cross‑contamination prevention, and safe ingredient handling.
• Assist Line Cooks: Help line cooks during service with mise en place, restocking ingredients, or last‑minute prep tasks.

Requirements

• Own a knife set and chef coat.
• Previous experience as a prep cook or line cook in a restaurant, commissary, or catering environment.
• Excellent understanding of various cooking methods, knife skills, ingredients, equipment, and kitchen procedures.
• Accuracy and speed in executing assigned tasks with strong attention to detail.
• Physical ability to lift/carry heavy equipment and stand for long periods.
• Must understand and execute food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Familiar with industry best practices.
• Excellent verbal communication and organization skills.
• Responsible, trustworthy, and a team player.

For questions or to apply, please contact the hiring team.