
Job Overview
Employment Type
Full-time
Compensation
Hourly
Exact $21.00
Work Schedule
Standard Hours
Day Shifts
Benefits
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
vision coverage
telemedicine
Flexible spending account
401(K) retirement savings program
Meal Discount
Paid Time Off
Tuition Reimbursement
Employee assistance program
Pet insurance
Job Description
First Watch is a premier and rapidly expanding daytime dining restaurant specializing in made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch dishes. Established as a leader in its niche, First Watch is committed to delivering fresh, chef-curated meals using only the highest quality ingredients available. With more than 630 locations across 32 states, this restaurant chain has earned a reputation for culinary excellence and outstanding customer service. It has been recognized with numerous accolades, including being voted the #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek's Readers' Choice Awards for 2025, as well as being named the #1 Most Loved Workplace in America for 2024 and 2025 by the Best Practice Institute. This recognition affirms First Watch's commitment to a positive working environment, community involvement, and superior dining experiences.
At First Watch, the culture centers around a unique YOU FIRST philosophy, emphasizing the well-being and happiness of its employees alongside customer satisfaction. Employees never work night shifts, which supports work-life balance, and are empowered to make decisions that enhance the breakfast, brunch, or lunch experience for guests. The company values respect, teamwork, and quality, which is reflected in the daily operations and employee treatment at every location.
The role of a Back-of-the-House Cook at First Watch presents an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about quality food and teamwork. Cooks are responsible for preparing meals with care, ensuring every plate that leaves the kitchen reflects personal pride and commitment to excellence. New hires receive tailored training suited to their comfort level and skills, whether that's a specific cooking station or particular culinary tasks. This inclusive approach means that prior mastery of all kitchen skills is not necessary, though enthusiasm and dedication certainly are.
Cooks play a critical role in upholding First Watch's standards by preparing high-quality, safe food in a fast-paced environment while maintaining organization and cleanliness at their stations. They follow award-winning recipes developed by First Watch’s culinary team and utilize only fresh ingredients to uphold the brand's promise of quality and consistency. Team members thrive on effective communication and collaboration to meet the demands of a busy kitchen during peak daytime hours.
Furthermore, First Watch invests heavily in its employees by offering an exceptional benefits package available to all team members. These benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, telemedicine services, flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care, retirement savings programs, and generous employee meal discounts. First Watch also provides resources for personal and professional development including tuition reimbursement, coaching programs, and wellness support through subscriptions to premium apps. Paid time off and insurance options such as supplemental and pet insurance further demonstrate the company's commitment to supporting employees both inside and outside of the workplace.
By joining First Watch as a Back-of-the-House Cook, individuals become part of an award-winning team that values quality, community impact, and a supportive workplace culture. This role is instrumental in maintaining the restaurant’s reputation for excellence while helping to foster a positive dining experience that customers love and employees are proud to create. First Watch’s dedication to its people and customers alike makes it a standout employer and a leader in the daytime dining industry.
At First Watch, the culture centers around a unique YOU FIRST philosophy, emphasizing the well-being and happiness of its employees alongside customer satisfaction. Employees never work night shifts, which supports work-life balance, and are empowered to make decisions that enhance the breakfast, brunch, or lunch experience for guests. The company values respect, teamwork, and quality, which is reflected in the daily operations and employee treatment at every location.
The role of a Back-of-the-House Cook at First Watch presents an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about quality food and teamwork. Cooks are responsible for preparing meals with care, ensuring every plate that leaves the kitchen reflects personal pride and commitment to excellence. New hires receive tailored training suited to their comfort level and skills, whether that's a specific cooking station or particular culinary tasks. This inclusive approach means that prior mastery of all kitchen skills is not necessary, though enthusiasm and dedication certainly are.
Cooks play a critical role in upholding First Watch's standards by preparing high-quality, safe food in a fast-paced environment while maintaining organization and cleanliness at their stations. They follow award-winning recipes developed by First Watch’s culinary team and utilize only fresh ingredients to uphold the brand's promise of quality and consistency. Team members thrive on effective communication and collaboration to meet the demands of a busy kitchen during peak daytime hours.
Furthermore, First Watch invests heavily in its employees by offering an exceptional benefits package available to all team members. These benefits include comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance, telemedicine services, flexible spending accounts for healthcare and dependent care, retirement savings programs, and generous employee meal discounts. First Watch also provides resources for personal and professional development including tuition reimbursement, coaching programs, and wellness support through subscriptions to premium apps. Paid time off and insurance options such as supplemental and pet insurance further demonstrate the company's commitment to supporting employees both inside and outside of the workplace.
By joining First Watch as a Back-of-the-House Cook, individuals become part of an award-winning team that values quality, community impact, and a supportive workplace culture. This role is instrumental in maintaining the restaurant’s reputation for excellence while helping to foster a positive dining experience that customers love and employees are proud to create. First Watch’s dedication to its people and customers alike makes it a standout employer and a leader in the daytime dining industry.
Job Requirements
- must be at least 18 years of age
- high school diploma or equivalent preferred
- ability to stand for extended periods
- availability to work daytime shifts
- ability to follow instructions carefully
- commitment to food safety and cleanliness
- reliable transportation to and from work
Job Qualifications
- minimum age of 18 years
- good communication skills
- ability to work effectively in a team
- knowledge of kitchen safety and sanitation practices
- willingness to follow established recipes and procedures
- ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
- basic culinary skills preferred but not required
Job Duties
- communicate well with others and believe in the importance of teamwork
- be responsible for delivering high-quality, safe food in a fast-paced kitchen
- follow our chef-curated recipes and use only the freshest ingredients
- maintain a clean, sanitized, and organized station
- train in a specific cooking station based on comfort level and skill
- ensure food preparation meets safety and quality standards
- support kitchen team operations to meet customer service goals
Job Criteria
Experience
Entry Level (1-2 years)
Job Location
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