Prep Cook

Knoxville, TN, USA|

Job Overview

Benefits

Health Insurance

Paid Time Off

Employee Discounts

Retirement Plan

Training and development opportunities

Meal Allowances

flexible schedules

Job Description

Kennedy Concepts is a renowned hospitality establishment dedicated to enriching the lives of both its guests and team members. The company is committed to delivering the highest level of food quality, exceptional bar drink offerings, and legendary guest service within a clean, comfortable environment featuring an energetic ambiance. Kennedy Concepts prides itself on a family-like culture, recognizing that its success stems from creating and retaining a hardworking and motivated team capable of providing an exceptional dining experience to every guest, every time. This commitment ensures that the memories created during visits to their establishments are unforgettable and cherished by all guests.

The Prep Cook role at Kennedy Concepts is vital to the kitchen's smooth and efficient operation. This position involves assisting in the preparation and organization of food items before cooking or serving, ensuring that every dish maintains the company’s high standards. As a Prep Cook, you will be responsible for performing a variety of food preparation tasks, including chopping vegetables, trimming meats, measuring ingredients, and assisting with basic cooking duties. Mastery of kitchen equipment such as broilers, ovens, grills, and fryers is also essential to this role. You will work closely with chefs and kitchen team members to maintain a clean and sanitary workstation and support the flow of kitchen operations. Kennedy Concepts emphasizes the importance of food safety and proper ingredient storage to maintain food quality and comply with health standards.

This position requires attention to detail, organizational skills, and the ability to multitask effectively in a fast-paced, lively atmosphere. Candidates should be able to follow recipes and company procedures, work collaboratively with the kitchen team, and display a strong work ethic, punctuality, and reliability. The role also demands physical stamina including standing for long periods, lifting up to 40 pounds, and navigating a busy kitchen environment.

Joining Kennedy Concepts means becoming part of a team that values excellence, teamwork, and a positive workplace environment. The Prep Cook will play a crucial role in upholding the company’s mission by contributing to the preparation of high-quality food that delights guests and supports the restaurant’s reputation for outstanding dining experiences. This position offers an opportunity to grow within a supportive team culture committed to individual and collective success.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
at least 1 year of experience in food preparation or a similar kitchen role
knowledge of basic knife skills and food safety standards
ability to follow detailed instructions and recipes
physical ability to stand for long periods and lift heavy items
strong communication skills
ability to work well within a team
reliable and punctual
willingness to work flexible hours including weekends and holidays
ability to maintain cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen environment

Job Qualifications

A minimum of 1 year of experience in kitchen preparation and cooking
basic knife skills, understanding of food safety and sanitation, and a strong attention to detail
able to follow recipes and processes as well as effectively communicate to the team so the needs of the kitchen are met
strong organizational and multitasking skills to keep up with the demands of a busy kitchen
ability to work well in a collaborative team environment with a positive attitude
can reach, bend, stoop and frequently lift items (up to 40 pounds)
work in a standing position for long periods of time (up to 5 hours)
strong work ethic and commitment to punctuality and dependable attendance
ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Job Duties

Complete opening and closing checklists
refer to the daily prep list at the start of each shift for assigned duties
assist in the preparation of ingredients for cooking, such as chopping vegetables, trimming meats, and measuring ingredients according to recipes and company specifications
utilize broilers, ovens, grills, fryers and a variety of other kitchen equipment in accordance with company standards and needs
consistently execute standards regarding portion sizes, cooking methods, quality standards, policies and procedures
portions food products prior to cooking according to standard portion sizes and recipe specifications
ensure all ingredients are fresh and stored properly to maintain food quality and safety
keep track of food supplies, restock kitchen items, and ensure proper rotation of stock to minimize waste
maintains a clean and sanitary workstation area including tables, shelves, walls grills, broilers, fryers, pasta cookers, sauté burners, convection oven, flat top range and refrigeration equipment
work closely with kitchen team members to ensure timely and efficient food preparation and a smooth flow of operations
assist chefs and line cooks with simple cooking tasks like grilling, sautéing, and frying as needed
follow proper food safety guidelines, including food handling, storage, and sanitation procedures
attend all scheduled employee meetings and bring suggestions for improvement
promptly reports equipment and food quality problems to Chef de Cuisine or General Manager
inform Chef de Cuisine immediately of product shortages
performs other related duties as assigned by the Chef de Cuisine or Manager on duty