Prep Cook

Vandelay Companies; Dallas (TX); On-site; USD 18,000 - 23,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental and Vision benefits

Flexible schedule

Professional development

Dining discounts at Vandelay concepts

Collaborative culture

Job summary

El Molino is seeking a Prep Cook to join Vandelay Companies' culinary team. You will prepare ingredients to recipes, maintain a clean prep area, and uphold food safety standards to ensure consistent, high-quality dishes for a fast-paced service.

Ideal candidates have 1–2 years in a high-volume kitchen, strong knife skills, and a collaborative attitude. You will support chefs, manage mise en place, and contribute to an energetic, hospitality-driven dining experience.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years culinary or hospitality experience in a high-volume kitchen.
• Strong knife skills and ability to work hot and cold prep.
• Food handler certification as required by local regulations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare ingredients according to recipes and guidelines with accuracy.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary prep area at all times.
• Assist in daily setup and breakdown of the kitchen and support chefs.

Skills

Knife skills

Team oriented

Attention to detail

Fast-paced environment

1-2 years experience

Education

Food handler certification

Job description

About El Molino

El Molino is a Mexico City-inspired bistro from Vandelay Companies that blends elevated Mexican cuisine, wood-fired cooking, refined cocktails, and warm hospitality in a sophisticated and energetic setting. Inspired by the vibrant culture of Mexico City and the timeless elegance of European bistros, El Molino delivers an experience that feels both familiar and elevated.

Known for its premium fajitas, chef-driven cuisine, handcrafted margaritas, and lively atmosphere, El Molino is a place where guests gather to celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories. Every detail, from the quality of the food and beverage program to the warmth of each interaction, is thoughtfully designed to create an experience that is memorable, welcoming, and distinctly Vandelay.

At El Molino, hospitality is about more than service. It is about creating moments. Our team members are passionate about making genuine connections, anticipating guest needs, and delivering an experience that feels polished, energetic, and effortlessly hospitable from beginning to end.

About The Opportunity

A Prep Cook at El Molino plays a foundational role in supporting the culinary team and ensuring our kitchens are set up for seamless, high-quality service. This position is responsible for preparing ingredients according to recipes, portioning guidelines, and cooking standards to ensure consistency and excellence in every dish. Prep Cooks maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workspace, adhere to all food safety protocols, and assist chefs with a wide range of tasks. Reliability, attention to detail, and a desire to learn are essential, as Prep Cooks contribute directly to the exceptional dining experiences our guests expect.

Core Responsibilities

• Support the Culinary Manager, Assistant Culinary Manager, and all kitchen team members with daily tasks to ensure full readiness for service.
• Prepare ingredients according to standardized recipes, portioning guidelines, and quality standards.
• Execute all assigned prep tasks with accuracy, consistency, and a strong sense of urgency.
• Maintain all kitchen prep standards and uphold every aspect of the culinary program.
• Assist in the daily setup and breakdown of the kitchen, taking great care of equipment, tools, and facilities.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary workstation at all times, consistently following all food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Label, date, store, and rotate ingredients properly using FIFO to ensure freshness and minimize waste.
• Assume responsibility for all ingredient prep, including washing, chopping, measuring, mixing, and storing items as needed.
• Communicate any shortages, product needs, or equipment concerns promptly to the culinary leadership team.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and correctly, adhering to all training and safety guidelines.
• Participate in a collaborative team environment and foster a positive, supportive working climate.
• Embrace change, adapt quickly, and deliver strong results under varying conditions and service demands.
• Follow opening, mid-shift, and closing procedures to maintain an orderly and well-prepared kitchen throughout the day.
• Adhere to all state and local food service safety and sanitation regulations.

Requirements

• Must be at least 18 years old
• 1-2 years of culinary or hospitality experience in a full-service, high-volume kitchen.
• Strong knife skills and experience working on both hot and cold prep.
• Food handler certification as required by state and local agencies.
• Energetic, accountable, and team-oriented with a positive, professional attitude.
• Excellent organizational skills and strong attention to detail.
• Ability to make sound decisions, take ownership of tasks, and work independently while collaborating effectively with all levels of leadership.
• Demonstrates initiative by contributing ideas, embracing change, and going above expectations to support the success of the team.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced environment while maintaining accuracy, cleanliness, and composure.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• Ability to work standing and walking for extended periods of time

Benefits & Perks

• Medical, Dental and Vision benefits available
• Flexible schedule
• Professional development and career growth
• Family Meals
• Dining discounts at all Vandelay Companies concepts
• All Vandelay Companies restaurants are closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas and the 4th of July so our team can celebrate with their friends and family
• A collaborative, uplifting culture where we take care of our guests by taking care of our people first

If you’re a passionate professional who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is eager to grow with a company that values hospitality and teamwork, we’d love to hear from you!

Vandelay Companies provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, genetics, or any other federal/state protected category.