Prep Cook

Zaytinya NYC; New York (NY); On-site; USD 24,796 - 33,062; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health benefits

Employee dining

Discounts

Job summary

José Andrés Group in New York City is seeking a Prep Cook to support our Back of House – Culinary team. This hourly, non-exempt role pays $18.00–$24.00 per hour, depending on experience, and requires strong knife skills, food safety, and teamwork to help deliver high-quality menu items.

You will prep ingredients, run a station during busy service, maintain cleanliness, follow inventory procedures, and collaborate with a positive kitchen team.

Qualifications

• Strong knife skills and ability to follow prep lists and recipes.
• Ability to work well in a fast-paced kitchen and collaborate with the team.
• Commitment to food safety, cleanliness and teamwork.

Responsibilities

• Prep ingredients and run a station during busy service.
• Assist in reproducing menu items and maintaining mise en place.
• Follow inventory controls and maintain a clean, organized workstation.
• Support kitchen team to deliver high-quality dining experiences.

Skills

Knife skills

Teamwork

Communication

Food safety

Education

Culinary degree

Tools

Food handler certification

Job description

Description

Job Title: Prep Cook
Reports To: Sous Chef
Department: Back of House – Culinary
Employment Type: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Pay Rate: $18.00 - $24.00 per hour, based on experience

About José Andrés Group

José Andrés Group (JAG) is a hospitality company led by Chef José Andrés, known for outstanding guest experiences, innovation, and a values-driven culture. Our teams bring world-class food and warm hospitality to life across acclaimed concepts worldwide.

Position Summary

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing high-quality ingredients and menu items while supporting efficient kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment. This role requires strong knife skills, attention to detail, and a commitment to food safety, cleanliness, and teamwork. The Prep Cook works collaboratively with the culinary team to execute recipes consistently, maintain organized workstations, and deliver an exceptional dining experience for every guest. Candidates should be self-motivated, adaptable, and passionate about continuous learning and culinary excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Leverage knife skills, experience and technique to confidently prep and run a station during busy service.
• Seamlessly work with an energetic and positive kitchen team to prepare and reproduce menu items, which will exceed our guest’s expectations.
• A passion for continuous learning and discovery by embracing an active and innovative approach to expanding your knowledge of food and beverage.
• Understand all ingredients as they pertain to each recipe and preparation of each authentic menu item
• Must be able to plan for, set up, and run a shift
• Follow inventory control procedures to reduce product loss
• Maintain cleanliness and organization throughout the restaurant
• Help create and maintain a positive work environment for employees as well as guests

Requirements

What We’re Looking For

• Open availability with flexibility (minimum of 3 days per week, including evenings, weekends and holidays).
• 1+ years of professional kitchen experience.
• Must have problem solving abilities, be self-motivated, and organized.
• Strong communication, ability to stay calm under pressure and work well in a team environment.
• Solid knife skills and ability to follow prep lists and recipes.
• Knowledge of cooking techniques, kitchen equipment, and food safety standards.
• Food Handler certification (or ability to obtain).
• Culinary degree is a plus.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• This position will spend 100% of the time standing or walking.
• Must be able to stand and exert well-paced mobility for up to 8 hours in length.
• Ability to work at a steady pace while multitasking in limited kitchen space.
• Frequent exposure to heat, steam, refrigeration, and cleaning chemicals.
• Continuous use of knives and kitchen equipment.
• Ability to lift 30–50 lbs regularly.
• Occasional pushing or pulling of carts/equipment up to 250 lbs.
• Requires repetitive motions including grasping, writing, standing, sitting, walking, repetitive motions, bending, hearing ability, and visual acuity.
• Slip-resistant footwear required.

In Return, We Offer You

• Competitive hourly pay with opportunities for cross-training and advancement
• Eligible health & wellness benefits (for qualifying positions)
• Employee dining and partner discounts
• Growth in a values-driven, award-winning hospitality group

Equal Opportunity Employer

José Andrés Group is an Equal Opportunity Employer and participates in the federal E-Verify Program.