Fast-Food Cook / Kitchen Prep / Sandwich maker

Lester's Smoked Meat is a renowned establishment in the restaurant and food service industry known for its commitment to quality, exceptional customer service, and maintaining a welcoming environment for both guests and employees. As a thriving business specializing in smoked meats and other delicious fare, Lester's Smoked Meat continually strives to uphold high standards of food preparation, safety, and guest satisfaction. The company takes pride in its dedication to workplace safety, team collaboration, and operational excellence, making it a distinguished employer in the culinary sector. Their mission aims to provide consistently high-quality food while ensuring all operations comply with health and safety regulations, thus fostering a culture of integrity and teamwork.

This job opening is for a Food Service Cook position, classified as hourly and non-exempt, available for full-time or part-time employment. The hourly pay ranges from $15.00 to $17.50, with pay rates and tip eligibility subject to review following a trial period. The role involves preparing and directing the preparation of food in compliance with established sanitation, health, and personal hygiene standards and adhering to established food production processes. This position reports to the Restaurant General Manager and the Training General Manager.

The Food Service Cook is responsible for a wide array of kitchen and food preparation tasks, including determining food quantities, ensuring timely availability of ingredients, adhering to food safety practices, and maintaining cleanliness and orderliness in the work area. The cook must operate kitchen equipment safely and efficiently, including ovens, stoves, dishwashers, slicers, coffee machines, steamers, mixers, and chef's knives. Key responsibilities include setting steam tables, conducting food temperature checks, storing food properly, and maintaining accurate production records. This role requires the ability to work in a fast-paced environment, maintain composure under pressure, and follow safety protocols.

Candidates must have at least a high school diploma or GED and 2-3 years of related work experience or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience. A valid ServSafe or equivalent Food Handler Certification is required. The role demands moderate reading and writing skills, proficiency in interpersonal and communication abilities, and physical capabilities such as standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, bending, kneeling, and reaching. The ideal candidate will exhibit qualities such as initiative, adaptability, strong teamwork, guest focus, strategic thinking, and the ability to optimize work processes. Additional responsibilities include supporting the company's mission, values, and vision, complying with safety and quality assurance standards, maintaining confidentiality, and promoting positive public relations.

Working conditions conform to a typical restaurant environment, with the possibility of needing to work beyond regular hours to meet business needs. Lester's Smoked Meat offers its employees an opportunity to grow in a supportive and dynamic workplace, fostered by a culture emphasizing safety, quality, teamwork, and respect for all. Employees also benefit from workplace discounts and can expect a collaborative and respectful atmosphere. This position requires physical stamina and the ability to navigate a fast-paced kitchen atmosphere while maintaining safety and high performance.