Prep Cook (On-call)

Highgate is a leading real estate investment and hospitality management company with over $15 billion of assets under management and a global portfolio of more than 400 hotels spanning North America, Europe, the Caribbean, and Latin America. With a 30-year track record as an innovator in the hospitality industry, Highgate provides expert guidance through all stages of the property cycle and continues to develop a diverse portfolio of bespoke lifestyle hotel brands, legacy brands, and independent hotels and resorts.

About the role

The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing all food items, based on standardized recipes, for the Restaurants, Room Service, Employee Cafeteria, and Banquets, while maintaining the highest standards to produce an appealing and appetizing product. The role ensures cleanliness, sanitation, and safety in the kitchen and work areas while minimizing waste and maximizing cost/production ratio.

Responsibilities

• Maintain cleanliness and organization of all storage areas.
• Complete necessary food and station preparation prior to the opening of the restaurant to ensure prompt and efficient service during operating hours.
• Prepare and display buffet food items according to hotel standards.
• Recognize quality standards in fresh vegetables, fish, dairy, and meat products.
• Maintain a clean and sanitary environment with knowledge of proper handling, storage, and sanitation.
• Prepare food for Banquets as required, following specifications on Banquet Event Orders.
• Prepare and service food for the Employee Cafeteria as specified by the Chef or Kitchen Supervisor.
• Prepare all foods following hotel standard recipes; preparation of specials will be under the direction of the Chef or Kitchen Supervisor.
• Break down buffets and kitchen line, storing food and equipment properly at the end of each meal period.
• Work banquet food station as scheduled by the Chef or Kitchen Supervisor.
• Know the location and operation of all fire extinguishing equipment.
• Practice safe work habits at all times to avoid injury to self or others.
• Use Production Charts as specified by hotel’s standards.
• Support any position in the Kitchen that is in need of help.
• Follow all Health Department and Company regulations regarding food and storage standards and safety.
• Operate and maintain cleanliness of all kitchen equipment.
• Maintain a “Clean As You Go” policy.
• Assist in storage and rotation of food items according to hotel procedures.
• Sign keys out and back in under supervision as needed.

Requirements

• High School diploma or equivalent and/or experience in a hotel or related field preferred.
• Culinary experience required.
• Flexible and long hours sometimes required.
• Medium work - Exerting up to 50 pounds of force occasionally, and/or 20 pounds of force frequently or constantly to lift, carry, push, pull, or otherwise move objects.
• Ability to stand during entire shift.
• Ability to withstand temperature variations (both hot and cold).
• Thorough knowledge of menus and preparation required, according to hotel standards.
• Proficiency in the following cooking techniques: charbroiling, poaching, deep-frying, sauté, braising, roasting, and par-cooking.
• Knowledge of herbs and spices and their proper use.