Prep Cook - LAVO Tampa

Tao Group Hospitality; Tampa (FL); On-site; USD 2,066,000 - 3,031,000; Full time

Job summary

Tao Group Hospitality is seeking an early-join prep cook for our new Tampa outlets, LAVO and BarOnda, at Hotel Cala on the waterfront. You will ensure quality, consistency and production of all food items, following TAO Standards and FIFO labeling.

The role requires experience in prep/line cook in high-volume operations, ability to move quickly, stand long hours, and work with a professional, team-focused kitchen. Training will be provided; evening/weekend shifts and dress code apply.

Qualifications

• Experience as a prep and/or line cook in a high-volume culinary operation preferred.
• Ability to read, write, and verbally communicate.
• Ability to move quickly and stand for extended periods.

Responsibilities

• Ensure quality, consistency and production of all food items.
• Prepare cooking ingredients by washing, chopping, cutting and other prep tasks.
• Label and store products following FIFO and TAO Standards.
• Assist and support kitchen staff and follow supervisor instructions.
• Participate in opening/closing duties and daily pre-service meetings.

Skills

Communication skills

Team player

Stamina for fast-paced work

Job description

In early 2027, Tao Group Hospitality is bringing two distinct dining experiences to Hotel Cala on Tampa’s waterfront. LAVO will make its Tampa debut with signature coastal Italian cuisine and hospitality, while BarOnda will bring a vibrant atmosphere to the Riverwalk with curated cocktails, bites, and waterfront views. We’re building our opening teams now. Join Tao Group Hospitality and be part of bringing two exciting new destinations to Tampa.

Ensure quality, consistency and production of all food items. Prep cook will prepare cooking ingredients by washing, chopping, cutting and other meal preparations. This entails proper labeling and storage of food items in designated containers and locations. All recipes need to be followed and executed to TAO Standards. Prep cooks are expected to follow guidelines of sanitation, food handling, and hygiene.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS OF THE POSITION

• Anticipate and accommodate the needs of all team members.
• Handles all food items by washing, chopping, and cutting according to recipe specifications.
• Maintains cleanliness and sanitation of assigned station, the kitchen, and the entire venue.
• Labels and stores all product following FIFO and company standards.
• Required to check and complete production lists and assignments.
• Follow supervisor's instructions, communicate with and support co-workers while being a team player.
• Possesses in-depth knowledge of assigned recipes with the ability to produce them to company standard.
• Possesses general knowledge of the venue.
• Complies with Department of Health and company sanitation standards.
• Communicates product needs to the chefs, sous chefs, and the support staff.
• Properly sets-up prep station and performs other opening/closing procedures as directed by management, including:
• Stocks station with prescribed supplies.
• Wipes down and sanitizes station.
• Completes opening duties as assigned or directed.
• Completes closing duties as assigned or directed.
• Reports all breakage, and damage of equipment or furniture immediately to management.
• Attends and participates in daily pre-service meetings (where applicable).
• Attends and participates in any training sessions or departmental meetings.
• Learn by listening, observing other team members, and sharing knowledge while leading by example.
• Portrays a positive and professional attitude.
• Demonstrates knowledge of Tao Group Hospitality, its partners, and supporting hotel environments.
• Works as part of a team and provides help and support to all fellow team members.
• Assist and/ or complete additional tasks as assigned.

TRAINING REQUIREMENTS

Tao Group Hospitality in-venue prep cook training

EDUCATION/WORKING KNOWLEDGE

Experience as a prep and/or line cook in a high-volume culinary operation preferred.

SKILLS / PHYSICAL DEMANDS / WORK ENVIRONMENT / SCHEDULE

The work environment characteristics and/or physical demands described here are representative of those a team member encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential job functions.

Ability to write, read, and verbally communicate.

Must be able to move quickly.

Must be able to push and lift up to 75 lbs. with or without assistance.

Must be able to stand for extended periods of time.

Work in an environment that is subject to varying levels of noise, crowds, and smoke, the severity of which depends upon the guest volume.

Office, Casino, Nightclub, Bar, Lounge, and/or Restaurant working Environment.

Exposure to hot kitchen elements or cleaning materials.

Office, Casino, Nightclub, Bar, Lounge, and/or Restaurant working environment.

May work extended hours irregular shifts, evening and/or weekend shifts, and holiday work may be required.

Maintain a professional, neat, and well-groomed appearance adhering to Company standards.

Must be effective as part of a team; ability to interact with internal and external customers, managers, and co-workers in a professional, courteous manner.

Ability to maintain confidentiality.

Ability to handle a fast-paced, busy, and somewhat stressful environment.