Line Cook/Prep Cook

Durham, NC, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Part-time

Compensation

Hourly

Range $16.00 - $20.00

Work Schedule

Day Shifts

Night Shifts

Benefits

flexible schedule

Paid training

employee discount

Job Description

The Velvet Hippo is a neighborhood bar located in Durham, NC, known for its unique atmosphere that combines the familiarity of a local dive bar with a tropical, staycation vibe. It is a casual dining restaurant and bar that prides itself on offering an inclusive, friendly, and welcoming environment for both guests and staff. The establishment features a diverse menu that includes inventive and classic cocktails, craft beers, popular wines, fun mocktails, frozen drinks, and simple snacks, making it a versatile spot for a variety of tastes and preferences. Owned and operated by a dedicated team of hospitality professionals who are passionate about guest service and community, The Velvet Hippo strives to create a sense of home and a second-family experience for its regular patrons, while also fostering career growth opportunities for its employees.

The role of the Line Cook at The Velvet Hippo is a vital part of the kitchen team, reporting directly to the Culinary Manager. This is a part-time position offering an hourly wage ranging from $16 to $20 based on experience. The Line Cook is responsible for preparing and plating food items according to standardized recipes and specifications, ensuring the highest quality and consistency. Working in a fast-paced kitchen environment requires the ability to maintain composure under pressure while delivering food that meets the establishment’s standards for taste, texture, and presentation. Although the position is not guest-facing, interaction with coworkers and a friendly demeanor are essential to maintaining the establishment’s brand and mission of inclusivity and respect.

Key responsibilities involve preparing ingredients by chopping, slicing, portioning, and garnishing, cooking to order while adhering to cooking temperatures and timing, and maintaining a clean and sanitized workspace in compliance with North Carolina State Food and Safety regulations. The Line Cook will also collaborate extensively with both front-of-house and back-of-house team members to ensure smooth operations and timely delivery of food orders. A flexible schedule is required, including availability for days, nights, and weekends, as the restaurant operates with various shifts throughout the week. The role demands physical stamina, including standing for extended periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and performing activities such as reaching, kneeling, and bending. Employees at The Velvet Hippo also benefit from a positive work environment that encourages open communication, team collaboration, and continuous training to help them advance their culinary skills and hospitality careers.

Job Requirements

Ability to work a flexible schedule including days, nights, and/or weekends
minimum 2 years experience as a Line Cook, Prep Cook, or related role
knowledge of basic principles of food preparation and various cooking methods
understanding of food safety regulations including proper food handling, sanitation, and storage
collaborative interpersonal and communication skills both written and verbal
physical ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 pounds, reach, kneel, crouch, and bend
ability to reliably commute or plan to relocate to Durham, NC before starting work

Job Qualifications

High school diploma or equivalent
minimum 2 years experience as a Line Cook, Prep Cook, or related role
knowledge of food preparation principles and cooking methods
understanding of food safety regulations and sanitation standards
proficiency in collaborative interpersonal and communication skills
ability to work well under pressure in a fast-paced environment
experience with kitchen equipment operation and maintenance
basic knife skills and safe food handling
flexibility to adapt to changing menus and procedures
ability to work a flexible schedule including days, nights, and weekends
current ServSafe Food Handler Certification preferred
experience in all kitchen stations preferred

Job Duties

Treat all guests and coworkers with friendliness, respect, and inclusivity
prepare and portion ingredients according to production guidelines and standardized recipes including chopping, slicing, dicing, portioning, and preparing garnishes
cook and prepare a variety of food items to order, ensuring they are cooked to the appropriate temperature and maintain consistent quality
plate and present dishes adhering to established standards for portion sizes, garnishing, and presentation
set up and close down the workstation with all necessary ingredients and equipment
monitor food quality and freshness, making adjustments as necessary to meet taste, texture, and appearance standards
collaborate with other kitchen staff to ensure smooth and efficient operations
communicate effectively with front-of-house and back-of-house team members to coordinate food preparation and delivery
manage time effectively to meet service demands and ensure timely delivery of food orders
be flexible and adaptable to changes in menu items, recipes, or kitchen procedures
know and follow food safety procedures and food handling rules including temperature and storage
safely utilize all kitchen materials, including knife-handling
operate kitchen equipment following established rules and best practices
adhere to all required food handling procedures including temperature control, storage, and sanitation
clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, and utensils in accordance with state regulations
follow all safety and hygiene protocols including proper handling of hazardous substances
be accountable for all shifts including arranging shift coverage as needed
attend training sessions and meetings as required
complete all other work-related duties as assigned