Prep Cook

Drake's Houston; Houston (TX); On-site; USD 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, Dental and Vision benefits

Flexible schedule

Dining discounts at all Vandelay concepts

Professional development opportunities

Job summary

Drake's Houston is looking for a passionate Pasta Prep Cook to support our culinary team in producing fresh pasta for our kitchens. The role involves working in a fast-paced environment, where attention to detail and teamwork are crucial.

Ideal candidates will have at least 2 years of culinary experience, particularly with fresh pasta techniques. Join us for a rewarding career where your culinary skills can shine!

Qualifications

• Minimum 2 years culinary experience in a high volume kitchen.
• Experience with pasta dough preparation and techniques.
• Food handler certification required.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and produce fresh pasta and related ingredients.
• Maintain kitchen prep standards and uphold culinary program.
• Communicate shortages or equipment concerns to leadership.

Skills

Fresh pasta preparation

Attention to detail

Team collaboration

Time management

Job description

About Vandelay Companies

For over a decade, Vandelay has defined what it means to deliver iconic, enduring hospitality experiences. With a growing portfolio of distinctive brands and markets nationwide, we are driven by a passion for craftsmanship, connection, and the pursuit of excellence. Every Vandelay concept celebrates the spirit of American dining: timeless spaces, genuine warmth, and an uncompromising commitment to quality that leaves a lasting impression on every guest who walks through our doors.

About the Opportunity

A Pasta Prep Cook at Drake's Hollywood plays a foundational role in supporting the culinary team and ensuring our kitchens are set up for seamless, high-quality service. This position is specifically focused on the preparation and production of fresh pasta in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment.

The ideal candidate has hands‑on experience working with fresh pasta doughs, shaping techniques, and pasta production equipment while maintaining consistency, precision, and efficiency at scale. This role is responsible for preparing ingredients according to recipes, portioning guidelines, and culinary standards to ensure excellence in every dish. Reliability, attention to detail, and a strong sense of urgency are essential, as Pasta Prep Cooks contribute directly to the exceptional dining experiences our guests expect.

Core Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Chef, Executive Sous Chef and kitchen team members with daily tasks to ensure full readiness for service.
• Prepare and produce fresh pasta doughs, fillings, sauces, and related ingredients according to standardized recipes and quality standards.
• Execute all assigned prep tasks with accuracy, consistency, and a strong sense of urgency in a high-volume environment.
• Operate and maintain pasta‑making equipment safely and correctly.
• Portion, shape, cut, and store fresh pasta while ensuring consistency in presentation and quality.
• 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 while following all food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Label, date, store, and rotate ingredients properly using FIFO to ensure freshness and minimize waste.
• Communicate any shortages, product needs, or equipment concerns promptly to the culinary leadership team.
• 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.
• 2+ years of culinary experience working with fresh and extruded pasta in a high volume kitchen.
• Experience with pasta dough preparation, rolling, cutting, shaping, and storage techniques.
• 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 concepts
• All Vandelay 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.