Job Overview
Benefits
flexible schedule
Team-oriented environment
Training and development opportunities
Employee Discounts
Paid Time Off
Job Description
El Pollo Loco is a well-known restaurant chain specializing in flame-grilled chicken and Mexican-inspired flavors. Founded on a tradition of fresh, high-quality ingredients and authentic recipes, the brand has grown to become a favorite among customers seeking flavorful and fast-casual dining experiences. The company prides itself on delivering consistent quality and outstanding customer service across all its locations, emphasizing food safety and operational excellence. With a strong commitment to community and employee development, El Pollo Loco offers an engaging work environment where team members can grow their skills and be part of a vibrant kitchen culture. As a respected name in the restaurant industry, El Pollo Loco continues to expand while maintaining the integrity of its culinary traditions and ensuring a positive workplace atmosphere.
The role of Prep Cook at El Pollo Loco is vital in supporting kitchen operations by preparing ingredients and food items in accordance with the company’s recipes, prep procedures, and stringent food safety standards. This position reports to the Shift Leader, Assistant Manager, or General Manager and plays an essential part in ensuring the kitchen runs efficiently and products are ready for grilling and service throughout the day. A Prep Cook is responsible not only for the initial preparation of proteins, produce, and sauces but also for maintaining clean and organized prep stations, proper labeling and storage, and adherence to FIFO (first-in, first-out) food rotation guidelines.
In this fast-paced and dynamic environment, the Prep Cook is expected to work collaboratively with the kitchen team, assisting with basic cooking or grill support tasks when needed. Food safety and sanitation are paramount, and the Prep Cook must consistently follow health department regulations and company policies to prevent cross-contamination and maintain a safe working environment. Physically, this role involves standing for extended periods, repetitive hand movements, and handling equipment safely while adhering to state age requirements for knife use.
El Pollo Loco offers a supportive environment for individuals seeking flexible work schedules, including mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Whether you are an experienced food prep worker or new to the culinary field, this position provides a great opportunity to develop foundational kitchen skills and contribute to a team-driven success. Working as a Prep Cook at El Pollo Loco means joining an energetic workplace where dependability, teamwork, and professionalism are highly valued. This role is ideal for candidates ready to thrive in a fast-paced restaurant kitchen and passionate about delivering quality food with consistency and care.
The role of Prep Cook at El Pollo Loco is vital in supporting kitchen operations by preparing ingredients and food items in accordance with the company’s recipes, prep procedures, and stringent food safety standards. This position reports to the Shift Leader, Assistant Manager, or General Manager and plays an essential part in ensuring the kitchen runs efficiently and products are ready for grilling and service throughout the day. A Prep Cook is responsible not only for the initial preparation of proteins, produce, and sauces but also for maintaining clean and organized prep stations, proper labeling and storage, and adherence to FIFO (first-in, first-out) food rotation guidelines.
In this fast-paced and dynamic environment, the Prep Cook is expected to work collaboratively with the kitchen team, assisting with basic cooking or grill support tasks when needed. Food safety and sanitation are paramount, and the Prep Cook must consistently follow health department regulations and company policies to prevent cross-contamination and maintain a safe working environment. Physically, this role involves standing for extended periods, repetitive hand movements, and handling equipment safely while adhering to state age requirements for knife use.
El Pollo Loco offers a supportive environment for individuals seeking flexible work schedules, including mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays. Whether you are an experienced food prep worker or new to the culinary field, this position provides a great opportunity to develop foundational kitchen skills and contribute to a team-driven success. Working as a Prep Cook at El Pollo Loco means joining an energetic workplace where dependability, teamwork, and professionalism are highly valued. This role is ideal for candidates ready to thrive in a fast-paced restaurant kitchen and passionate about delivering quality food with consistency and care.
Job Requirements
- previous food prep or kitchen experience preferred but not required
- knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices preferred
- ability to work flexible schedules, including mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays
Job Qualifications
- previous food prep or kitchen experience preferred but not required
- knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices preferred
- ability to work flexible schedules, including mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays
- ability to follow prep procedures and recipes accurately
- ability to maintain focus and food safety standards
- ability to multi-task in a fast-paced environment
- ability to maintain regular and predictable attendance
Job Duties
- prepare ingredients including marinating chicken, chopping produce, portioning proteins, and preparing salsas according to brand standards
- follow approved recipes, prep lists, and portion controls
- label, date, store, and rotate food items according to FIFO guidelines
- assist with basic cooking or grill support tasks as assigned
- maintain clean and organized prep areas, coolers, and storage spaces
- clean and sanitize prep tools, utensils, and equipment
- monitor prep levels and communicate shortages or quality concerns to management
- support kitchen operations during high-volume periods
- follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations
- properly handle raw and cooked products to prevent cross-contamination
- comply with company safety policies and cleanliness standards
- work collaboratively with cooks and grill staff
- follow direction from managers and shift leaders
- demonstrate dependability, teamwork, and professionalism
Job Criteria
Experience
No experience required
Job Location
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