Prep Cook

Ugly-Dumpling-4; Newark (DE); On-site; USD 24,000 - 36,000; Full time

Job summary

Ugly Dumpling seeks a Prep Cook to prepare ingredients, assemble dumpling fillings, and support the kitchen team in a fast-paced environment. You will ensure accurate labeling, proper storage, and timely prep to aid line cooks during service.

The role requires adherence to recipes, high cleanliness standards, and the ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends. Prior kitchen exposure is helpful, with emphasis on teamwork and reliability.

Qualifications

• Previous kitchen or food prep experience preferred, but not required.
• Ability to follow instructions and recipes accurately.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Basic knife skills and familiarity with kitchen equipment are a plus.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage time effectively.
• Team player with a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Ability to stand and walk for 8–10 hours per shift.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25–50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive movements in a fast-paced environment.
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Wash, chop, slice, and measure ingredients according to recipes and prep lists.
• Assemble dumpling fillings, sauces, and other components with precision.
• Ensure all prepared items are labeled, dated, and stored correctly.
• Assist with setting up and breaking down prep stations at start and end of shifts.
• Support line cooks during service to maintain smooth operations.
• Follow Ugly Dumpling’s recipes and guidelines for consistency and quality.
• Adhere to food safety and sanitation standards.
• Clean and sanitize workstations, tools, and equipment.
• Dispose of waste and recycling properly to keep the kitchen clean.
• Communicate shortages or issues to the Culinary Manager or Corporate Chef.
• Assist with other kitchen tasks, including line cooking or dishwashing.

Skills

Organizational skills

Follow recipes

Knife skills

Team player

Time management

Attention to detail

Stamina and endurance

Job description

Prep Cook Job Description

General Description:

The Prep Cook plays a vital role in the kitchen by preparing ingredients, assembling recipes, and ensuring the kitchen operates smoothly. This position focuses on maintaining high standards of quality, cleanliness, and efficiency to support the culinary team in delivering exceptional dishes.

Type of position:

Full-time

Seasonal

Part-time

Contractor

Intern

Reporting to:

Culinary Manager

Hours: 20-40 hours/week

Exempt

Nonexempt

Duties & Responsibilities

Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:

• Wash, chop, slice, and measure ingredients according to recipes and prep lists.

• Assemble dumpling fillings, sauces, and other components with precision and attention to detail.

• Ensure all prepared items are labeled, dated, and stored correctly to maintain freshness.

• Assist with setting up and breaking down prep stations at the start and end of shifts.

• Ensure that all prep work is completed in a timely manner to support the line cooks and kitchen team during service.

• Follow Ugly Dumpling’s recipes and guidelines to ensure consistency and quality.

• Adhere to food safety and sanitation standards, including proper handling and storage of all ingredients.

• Clean and sanitize workstations, tools, and equipment regularly to maintain a safe kitchen environment.

• Dispose of waste and recycling properly to keep the kitchen clean and organized.

• Communicate effectively with the kitchen team to prioritize tasks and ensure smooth operations.

• Inform the Culinary Manager or Corporate Chef of any shortages, equipment issues, or other concerns.

• Assist with other kitchen tasks as needed, including line cooking or dishwashing during busy periods.

• Performs other duties as assigned.

Essential Functions

• Previous experience in a kitchen or food preparation role preferred, but not required.
• Ability to follow instructions and recipes accurately.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Basic knife skills and familiarity with kitchen equipment are a plus.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage time effectively.
• Team player with a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8–10 hours per shift).
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25–50 pounds.
• Frequent bending, reaching, and repetitive movements in a fast-paced environment.
• Ability to work in varying conditions, including heat, cold, and noise.
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Ugly Dumpling fully complies with all applicable federal, state, and local anti-discrimination laws by providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and job applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, and related medical conditions, sexual orientation, or gender identity), national origin, age (40 or older), disability, and genetic information (including family medical history), or any other legally protected status.