Prep Cook

Torchy's Tacos is a popular and rapidly growing fast-casual Mexican restaurant chain known for its bold flavors and creative taco offerings. Established with a passion for delivering high-quality and innovative food, Torchy's has become a favorite destination for taco lovers across multiple locations. The company prides itself on its vibrant culture, commitment to quality ingredients, and a fun, team-oriented work environment. Opportunities for advancement and personal growth are abundant within the organization, making it an attractive workplace for individuals seeking a career in the culinary and hospitality industries.

The role of Prep Cook/Tortilla Prep at Torchy's is essential in maintaining the high food standards the brand is known for. This position offers an hourly wage of $12 to $14, plus tips, providing employees a competitive compensation package that rewards their hard work. Additionally, team members participate in a tip-sharing program, adding to their overall earnings. The position is hourly and includes access to a variety of benefits and perks that support both work-life balance and career development.

As a Prep Cook/Tortilla Prep, your primary responsibility will be to produce all food items listed on the daily prep sheet precisely according to Torchy's recipes found in the Taco Bible. This ensures that every dish served maintains consistency, quality, and flavor. You will also manage the cleanliness and organization of your work area, including kitchen equipment and the walk-in cooler, following strict food safety and HACCP protocols such as FIFO inventory management. Attention to detail is critical, as you will be documenting pre- and post-weights of food items, tracking recipe yields, and properly labeling and dating pans to maintain kitchen efficiency.

The role extends beyond food preparation to include tortilla making, where you will handle masa production and pressing corn tortillas using a tortilla press. You will also prepare flour tortillas and cook them on a flat top to meet exact specifications. These responsibilities require familiarity with various kitchen tools and equipment like fryers, char grills, flat tops, and food processors.

Torchy's seeks candidates who meet state and local Food Handler certification requirements, with certification obtained by the first day or within the required timeline. Physical endurance is necessary since lifting up to 40 pounds is part of the job. Strong knife safety skills, basic communication, reading ability, and multitasking capabilities are highly valued. While prior kitchen experience is a plus, it is not mandatory. Applicants must be at least 18 years old.

Working at Torchy's not only offers financial advantages but also includes several welcoming benefits. The company provides flexible scheduling to accommodate varying employee needs, casual attire with some swag, and opportunities for career growth within the organization. From day one, team members gain access to exclusive discounts on entertainment, travel, and events. Full-time employees can access medical, dental, and vision insurance after one year, as well as 401(k) plans after six months. Paid time off is available after one year of employment, and the well-being program supports financial wellness and personal development. Torchy's Family Foundation also helps team members facing hardships, reinforcing the community-focused spirit of the company.

Overall, the Prep Cook/Tortilla Prep position at Torchy's is a dynamic role that forms the backbone of the kitchen team. The successful candidate will contribute significantly to the excellent dining experience Torchy's customers expect while benefiting from a supportive and growth-oriented workplace.