Prep Cook

Papis-Pizza; Baltimore (MD); On-site; USD 17,000 - 25,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, dental, and vision benefits

Paid time off

Shift meals and dining discounts

Training and advancement path

Supportive team culture

Job summary

Papis-Pizza in Baltimore, MD is seeking a Prep Cook to prepare ingredients, portion to recipes, and ensure on-time service. You will maintain stock, follow safety standards, and support line cooks during busy periods.

The role emphasizes reading recipes, accuracy in labeling and FIFO, and collaboration with kitchen staff to uphold quality. Entry-level candidates are welcome with a quick path to advancement within the kitchen team.

Qualifications

• Basic knife skills and familiarity with kitchen equipment.
• Ability to read and follow recipes, prep lists, and labeling systems.
• Must maintain food safety and sanitation practices.

Responsibilities

• Wash, peel, cut, and portion vegetables, fruits, proteins, and other ingredients to recipe specifications.
• Prepare sauces, dressings, stocks, marinades, and other components using standardized recipes.
• Follow daily prep lists and par levels set by the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager.
• Label, date, and rotate all products using FIFO (first in, first out).
• Receive, check, and properly store deliveries; report shortages or quality issues.
• Maintain safe food temperatures and complete temperature logs as required.
• Keep workstations, coolers, walk-ins, and equipment clean, sanitized, and organized.
• Support line cooks during service and assist with dishwashing or closing duties as needed.
• Minimize waste and report low inventory to kitchen leadership.
• Follow all health department, food safety, and company safety standards.

Skills

Knife skills

Reading recipes

Teamwork

Education

Food Handler certification

Job description

The Prep Cook prepares ingredients and components for daily service according to standardized recipes, portioning guides, and food safety standards. This role keeps the line stocked and ready, so the kitchen can deliver every plate on time and to spec.

Key Responsibilities

• Wash, peel, cut, and portion vegetables, fruits, proteins, and other ingredients to recipe specifications
• Prepare sauces, dressings, stocks, marinades, and other components using standardized recipes
• Follow daily prep lists and par levels set by the Sous Chef or Kitchen Manager
• Label, date, and rotate all products using FIFO (first in, first out)
• Receive, check, and properly store deliveries; report shortages or quality issues
• Maintain safe food temperatures and complete temperature logs as required
• Keep workstations, coolers, walk-ins, and equipment clean, sanitized, and organized
• Support line cooks during service and assist with dishwashing or closing duties as needed
• Minimize waste and report low inventory to kitchen leadership
• Follow all health department, food safety, and company safety standards

Qualifications

• 6 months to 1 year of kitchen experience preferred; motivated entry-level candidates are welcome
• Basic knife skills and familiarity with kitchen equipment
• Ability to read and follow recipes, prep lists, and labeling systems
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation practices
• Food Handler certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days of hire)
• Reliable, punctual, and able to work well in a fast-paced team environment
• Clear communication and willingness to take direction and learn

Physical Requirements & Schedule

• Stand and walk for extended periods (8+ hours)
• Lift and carry up to 50 lbs
• Bend, reach, and perform repetitive motions
• Work in hot, cold, and wet environments, including walk-in coolers and freezers
• Availability for early mornings, weekends, and holidays as scheduled

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay
• [Health, dental, and vision benefits for eligible employees]
• [Paid time off]
• Shift meals and employee dining discounts
• Training and a clear path to advancement (Line Cook, Lead Cook, Sous Chef)
• A supportive, respectful team culture