Line Cook

Tim Ho Wan - Irvine; Irvine (CA); On-site; USD 25,000 - 39,000; Full time

Job summary

Tim Ho Wan - Irvine is seeking a Cook 1 (Line Cook) to prepare, cook, and present high-quality dishes in accordance with established recipes and standards. As a senior line cook, you will lead by example, assist junior kitchen staff, and ensure smooth kitchen operations during service.

The Cook 1 must maintain a clean and organized work area, adhere to food safety standards, and consistently deliver food that meets quality expectations. Early shifts, weekends, and holidays may be required.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years culinary experience, preferably in a Chinese dim sum kitchen or similar establishment.
• Strong knowledge of traditional Chinese cooking techniques (steaming, frying, baking).
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple orders.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook menu items in accordance with recipes, portions, and presentation standards.
• Manage an assigned station during service; ensure stock, organization, and cleanliness.
• Coordinate timing with other stations so all dish components are served together.
• Check ingredient quality and final plating to ensure consistency and standards.
• Assist and train junior kitchen staff; provide on-the-job guidance.
• Monitor inventory levels, minimize waste, and report discrepancies to supervisors.
• Follow hygiene, sanitation, and food safety procedures per regulatory requirements.
• Ensure kitchen equipment and tools are cleaned, maintained, and stored properly.

Skills

Mandarin/English communication

Team player

Attention to detail

Food safety awareness

Job description

Job Summary

The Cook 1 (Line Cook) is responsible for preparing, cooking, and presenting high-quality dishes in accordance with established recipes and standards. As a senior line cook, this role involves leading by example, assisting junior kitchen staff, and ensuring smooth kitchen operations during service. The Cook 1 must maintain a clean and organized work area, adhere to food safety standards, and consistently deliver food that meets quality expectations.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation and Cooking

• Prepare and cook menu items in accordance with standardized recipes, portion sizes, and presentation standards.
• Ensure proper cooking techniques are used to maintain consistency and high food quality.
• Adjust seasoning and presentation to meet customer preferences or special dietary needs when required.

Station Supervision

• Manage an assigned station (e.g., grill, sauté, fryer, cold kitchen) during service periods.
• Ensure the station is fully stocked, organized, and clean before, during, and after shifts.
• Coordinate timing with other stations to ensure all components of each dish are served together.

Quality Control

• Check the quality of ingredients and finished dishes to ensure consistency and standards are met.

Team Support and Training

• Assist and guide junior kitchen staff; provide on-the-job training as needed.

Inventory and Waste Management

• Monitor inventory levels, minimize food wastage, and report any discrepancies to the Head Chef or Sous Chef.

Health & Safety Compliance

• Follow proper hygiene, sanitation, and food safety procedures in line with regulatory requirements.

Equipment and Station Maintenance

• Ensure all kitchen equipment and tools are properly cleaned, maintained, and stored.

Job Requirements

• Ability to communicate effectively with kitchen staff in Mandarin or English to understand instructions, coordinate food preparation, and maintain workplace safety.
• Minimum 2–3 years of culinary experience, preferably in a Chinese dim sum kitchen or similar Chinese cuisine establishment.
• Strong understanding of traditional Chinese cooking techniques, including steaming, frying, and baking.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast‑paced environment and handle multiple orders simultaneously.
• Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards (ServSafe certification preferred).
• Able to work early morning shifts, weekends, and public holidays as required.
• Team player with a positive attitude and attention to detail.

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