Prep Cook

About the role

D.L. Mack’s is a Chicago-inspired American tavern from Vandelay Companies that blends timeless comfort food, handcrafted cocktails, and genuine hospitality in a warm, inviting setting. A Prep Cook at D.L. Mack's plays a foundational role in supporting the culinary team and ensuring our kitchens are set up for seamless, high-quality service.

Responsibilities

• Support the Culinary Manager, Assistant Culinary Manager, and all kitchen team members with daily tasks to ensure full readiness for service.
• Prepare ingredients according to standardized recipes, portioning guidelines, and quality standards.
• Execute all assigned prep tasks with accuracy, consistency, and a strong sense of urgency.
• 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, consistently following all food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Label, date, store, and rotate ingredients properly using FIFO to ensure freshness and minimize waste.
• Assume responsibility for all ingredient prep, including washing, chopping, measuring, mixing, and storing items as needed.
• Communicate any shortages, product needs, or equipment concerns promptly to the culinary leadership team.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and correctly, adhering to all training and safety guidelines.
• 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
• 1-2 years of culinary or hospitality experience in a full-service, high-volume kitchen.
• Strong knife skills and experience working on both hot and cold prep.
• 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

• Medical, Dental and Vision benefits available
• Flexible schedule
• Professional development and career growth
• Family Meals
• Dining discounts at all Vandelay Companies concepts
• All Vandelay Companies 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