Prep Cook

Acme Hospitality; Santa Barbara (CA); On-site; USD 22,041 - 30,307; Full time

Job summary

Acme Hospitality is seeking a prep cook to join our California kitchen team. You will prepare ingredients, set up workstations, and assist in producing a variety of dishes with attention to quality and safety.

The role requires flexibility to work AM and PM shifts Wednesday through Sunday, plus some evenings and holidays. Previous prep cook experience is preferred and a current State Food Handler Certification is required.

Qualifications

• Must be available to work AM & PM shifts Wednesday through Sunday.
• Previous Prep Cook or similar role experience preferred.
• Basic knowledge of food preparation techniques and kitchen equipment.
• Familiarity with proper food handling, storage, sanitation and FIFO procedures.
• Ability to follow recipes accurately and work in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and portion ingredients according to recipes and culinary team instructions.
• Wash, peel, chop, and dice vegetables, fruits, and other items.
• Measure and mix ingredients for marinades, sauces, and dressings.
• Prepare and assemble salads, soups, stews, and other dishes.
• Assist with meat, fish, and poultry prep including cleaning and marinating.
• Maintain food safety, proper temperatures, labeling, and FIFO.]
• Set up workstations and assist in inventory management, stocking, and organization.
• Keep utensils and equipment clean and in good condition.

Skills

Food preparation

Knife skills

Food safety

Teamwork

Time management

Education

Culinary training/certification

State Food Handler Certification

Job description

Who We Are

Acme Hospitality owns and operates a collection of highly acclaimed and award‑winning food & beverage concepts and boutique hotels throughout California. In addition to a collection of restaurants and hotels, we create hospitality experiences that inspire people, create a sense of camaraderie, and make people happy.

Description

Acme Hospitality owns and operates a collection of highly acclaimed and award‑winning food & beverage concepts and boutique hotels throughout California. In addition to a collection of restaurants and hotels, we create hospitality experiences that inspire people, create a sense of camaraderie, and make people happy.

Mission & Core Values

Above all else, we are committed to providing our team members with a work environment and experience that we can be proud of. Our Core Values of Delivering Excellence, Embrace Originality, Act with Integrity and Celebrate Community are the essential ingredients for success.

Position Summary

Prep cooks are responsible for the preparation and set up of all ingredients and stations for kitchen operations.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and portion ingredients according to the recipes and instructions provided by the culinary team.
• Wash, peel, chop, and dice vegetables, fruits, and other food items.
• Measure and mix ingredients for recipes, such as marinades, sauces, and dressings.
• Prepare and assemble ingredients for salads, soups, stews, and other dishes.
• Assist in the preparation of meat, fish, and poultry by cleaning, cutting, and marinating.
• Follow proper food handling and safety procedures, including storing ingredients at the correct temperatures, labeling and FIFO.
• Set up workstations with necessary ingredients, utensils, and equipment before each shift.
• Assist in inventory management, including monitoring stock levels, reporting shortages, spoilage and organizing storage areas.
• Keep kitchen equipment and utensils clean and in good condition.
• Assist in the receiving and inspecting of deliveries, ensuring they meet quality standards.
• Collaborate with other kitchen staff to ensure efficient workflow and timely service.
• Adhere to food safety and sanitation regulations, including proper handwashing and wearing appropriate protective gear.
• Assist in washing all silver, plate wares, pots and pans and cooking utensils for the restaurant.
• Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, and utensils to maintain a clean and organized kitchen.
• Follow instructions and recipes accurately to maintain consistency in flavor and presentation.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the chef, sous chef, or kitchen leads.

Requirements

• Must be available to work both AM & PM shifts Wednesday through Sunday
• Previous experience as a Prep Cook or in a similar role is preferred but not always required.
• Basic knowledge of food preparation techniques and kitchen equipment.
• Familiarity with proper food handling, storage, product identification and sanitation procedures.
• Ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately.
• Basic knife skills and the ability to safely operate kitchen tools and equipment.
• Physical stamina and dexterity to stand for extended periods, lift heavy pots and pans, and maneuver in a busy kitchen.
• Flexibility to work in shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Attention to detail and ability to work efficiently in a fast‑paced environment.
• Basic math skills for portioning and measuring ingredients.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
• Willingness to learn and take direction from the culinary team.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations and willingness to adhere to them.
• Culinary training or relevant certification is a plus but not always required.
• Current State Food Handler Certification

Compensation

$19/hour + tips (average pay with tips $22–25/hour)

Job Status

Non-Exempt

Important Notice

This job description is not an exclusive or exhaustive list of all job functions that an Acme Hospitality Team Member in this position may be asked to perform from time to time. Based on business needs or Guest service objectives, you may also be asked to perform other duties or tasks in addition to those listed above and will be required to have completed required training associated with the other duties or tasks.

Salary Description

$19/hour + Tips