Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Hourly
Exact $20.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Day Shifts
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Benefits

Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
vision coverage
Telemedicine access
Flexible spending account
Dependent Care Flexible Spending Account
401(K) retirement savings program
Meal Discount
Child discount program
Employee assistance program
Paid Time Off
Tuition Reimbursement
Pet insurance
Calm app access
Perks at work

Job Description

First Watch is a distinguished and rapidly growing daytime dining restaurant chain that specializes in made-to-order breakfast, brunch, and lunch. With more than 630 locations across 32 states, First Watch has built a strong reputation for offering fresh, chef-curated menus that emphasize high-quality ingredients and culinary excellence. The company operates under a philosophy called "Follow the Sun," which involves rotating their menus multiple times per year to highlight seasonal and peak-flavored dishes. This approach ensures that diners enjoy a dynamic and vibrant culinary experience every time they visit. First Watch is also well-regarded for its commitment to community involvement, having raised approximately $2.0 million to support various charitable causes that benefit children and local communities. Consistently recognized for its excellence, the brand has received numerous awards including "Best Breakfast" and "Best Brunch," and was voted #1 Best Breakfast by Newsweek's Readers' Choice Awards for 2025. Additionally, it has been named the #1 Most Loved Workplace in America for 2024 and 2025, reflecting its positive work culture and employee engagement. The company prides itself on fostering a nurturing, inclusive, and forward-thinking workplace environment where employees are valued and empowered.

The Back-of-the-House Cook position at First Watch is an exciting opportunity for individuals passionate about food quality and teamwork in a fast-paced, supportive environment. This role involves preparing and cooking menu items with a focus on safety, consistency, and culinary artistry. New hires are trained on specific kitchen stations tailored to their comfort level and skills, ensuring a smooth onboarding process without pressure to master every technique right away. Cooks play a crucial role in delivering exceptional food experiences by following award-winning recipes and using only the freshest ingredients available. The position offers a strong emphasis on respect for quality and hygiene, requiring cooks to maintain clean, sanitized, and organized work areas at all times. This role is well suited for individuals who have good communication skills, enjoy collaborating with a team, and take pride in producing high-quality dishes.

First Watch fosters a "YOU FIRST" culture, with a focus on employee happiness and empowerment. Employees benefit from never working night shifts, being given independence to make decisions that enhance customer experience, and receiving a wide range of benefits. These include comprehensive health insurance options, dental and vision coverage, unlimited telemedicine access, flexible spending accounts, a 401(k) retirement savings program, employee assistance programs, child care support, tuition reimbursement, paid time off, and unique perks such as employee meal discounts and premium access to wellness apps. This role is designed to be rewarding, both professionally and personally, offering job security within a respected brand that prioritizes its people as much as its food. First Watch values diversity and is an equal opportunity employer, committed to accommodating individuals with disabilities and encouraging open communication to support all team members. Working as a cook for First Watch means becoming part of a company that loves its employees more than bacon and strives to create the best possible dining and work environments every day.

Job Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years of age
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment
  • Basic knowledge of food safety practices
  • Good communication skills
  • Ability to stand for long periods
  • Willingness to work flexible hours
  • Commitment to maintaining a clean and sanitary work area

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Previous cooking or kitchen experience preferred but not required
  • Ability to follow detailed recipes and instructions
  • Strong communication skills
  • Willingness to learn and work collaboratively in a team environment
  • Ability to maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen
  • Must be at least 18 years of age

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 award-winning chef-curated recipes and use only the freshest ingredients
  • Maintain a clean, sanitized, and organized station
  • Train and work on specific kitchen stations according to skill level
  • Assist in food preparation and cooking tasks as assigned
  • Adhere to all food safety and sanitation standards

Job Criteria

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)


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