Line Cook

Role: Line Cook 

Employment Classification: Non-Exempt, Full-Time

Reports To: Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, Sous Chefs 

Essential Job Functions: 

The line cook is a crucial member of a kitchen team responsible for preparing, cooking, and plating food items in accordance with established recipes and quality standards. This role requires strong culinary skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment. Line cooks collaborate with other kitchen staff to ensure timely and accurate preparation of menu items. 

A successful Line Cook is eager to master all stations, including Garde Manger, Broil, Sauté, Grill, and Fry, demonstrating versatility and a commitment to continuous learning. They must be proficient in executing precise cooking techniques, maintaining consistency in flavor and presentation, and upholding the highest food safety and sanitation standards.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Prepare and portion ingredients according to the menu specifications.
• Follow recipes and cooking techniques to ensure consistency and quality.
• Cut, chop, and otherwise prepare ingredients for cooking.
• Cook food items on the line during service hours, ensuring proper cooking times and temperatures.
• Grill, sauté, fry, or bake menu items as required.
• Monitor food levels and replenish as needed to meet customer demand.
• Ensure that all food leaving the kitchen meets the established quality standards.
• Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary before serving.
• Monitor food inventory and rotate stock to maintain freshness.
• Maintain a clean and organized workstation, following food safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Clean kitchen equipment, utensils, and cooking surfaces regularly.
• Dispose of waste properly and contribute to overall kitchen cleanliness.
• Coordinate with other kitchen staff to ensure timely preparation and delivery of orders.
• Communicate effectively with the kitchen team to maintain a smooth workflow.
• Assist in the training of new kitchen staff members.
• Be flexible and able to handle a variety of tasks, including different cooking techniques and menu items.
• Quickly adapt to changes in the kitchen environment and menu offerings.
• Work efficiently to meet service demands and maintain a high level of productivity.
• Manage time effectively to ensure the timely preparation and delivery of orders.
• Communicate effectively with kitchen staff, servers, and management.
• Notify team members and supervisors of low stock items and equipment issues.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Previous experience as a line cook or in a similar role is preferred.
• Culinary school education or equivalent work experience.
• Knowledge of various cooking methods, kitchen equipment, and food safety standards.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle high-pressure situations.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Physical stamina and the ability to stand for extended periods.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.

Physical Demands: While performing these job duties, the employee is regularly required to see, talk, hear, and reach. The employee is regularly required to sit, walk, and stand for long periods. The employee is required to use dominant hand coordination for simple grasping, pushing/pulling, and fine manipulation. The employee is also required to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, bend, squat, kneel, and reach above shoulder level. The employee may be exposed to extreme temperatures, dust, dampness, and moving machinery.

John Fraser Restaurants is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to providing a work environment free of discrimination and harassment. We do not discriminate on the basis of race (including traits historically associated with race such as hair texture and protective hairstyles), color, creed, religion, gender (including gender identity or expression), pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, marital status, domestic violence, sexual violence, or stalking victim status, ancestry, national origin, alienage or citizenship, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information, predisposing genetic characteristics, or any other protected status under federal, state, or local law. We also provide reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and to employees with sincerely held religious beliefs, practices, or observances, in accordance with applicable law.