Morning Kitchen Cook & Prep Specialist

Quest Food Management Services, Inc.; Winnetka (IL); On-site; USD 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Quest Food Management Services, Inc. is seeking a Cook / Culinary Associate in Winnetka, IL to join our school nutrition team.

The role involves hot and cold food preparation, following recipes, and ensuring meals are prepared safely and on time. You will assist with salads, grab-and-go items, and catering, while maintaining a clean, organized service line and delivering friendly customer service.

Qualifications

• At least 1 year of cooking or food prep experience
• Must meet state/local Food Handler certification requirements
• Ability to follow standardized recipes and production instructions
• Basic math for measurements and portions
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment
• Reliable Monday–Friday, 6:30 AM–2:30 PM attendance

Responsibilities

• Prepare food according to production sheets and recipes
• Cook hot and cold menu items maintaining quality and presentation
• Assemble, portion, garnish, and present items for service
• Assist with salads, grab-and-go items, bulk prep, and catering as assigned
• Complete preparation for upcoming meal periods and next day production
• Assist with catering and special events as needed
• Maintain stock levels and communicate shortages to supervisor
• Minimize waste through proper prep and storage procedures
• Set up and maintain prep and service areas
• Receive and store deliveries
• Label, date, store and rotate food products
• Safely transport food and supplies within the kitchen
• Use and care for kitchen equipment and report issues
• Keep workstations organized and ready for service
• Follow food safety, sanitation, HACCP guidelines and proper temperature controls
• Provide friendly, professional service to students, staff, and guests
• Work with kitchen team and communicate with supervisors
• Represent Quest's values and service standards
• Attend shifts on time in proper uniform

Skills

Cooking/food prep experience

Food safety knowledge

Math skills

Teamwork

Attendance reliability

Education

Culinary education or training

Food Handler certification

Job description

Quest Food Management Services, Inc. is seeking a Cook / Culinary Associate in Winnetka, IL to join our school nutrition team.

The role involves hot and cold food preparation, following recipes, and ensuring meals are prepared safely and on time. You will assist with salads, grab-and-go items, and catering, while maintaining a clean, organized service line and delivering friendly customer service.