Position: Lead Seafood Cook
About:
Uncle Giuseppe’s Marketplace offers a unique selection of specialty goods, from the vibrant array of fresh produce to the freshly made prepared foods and gourmet treats. With quality being a top priority, we always ensure that everything is made fresh every day and only with the finest ingredients.
Our Melville Store has a newly created opportunity to work as the Lead Seafood Cook in its busy kitchen! A lead cook plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the kitchen and overseeing the cooking team. Their responsibilities extend beyond just cooking, as they are also involved in managing kitchen operations, maintaining food quality, and fostering a productive work environment. In this position, you will:
• Oversee and participate in the preparation, cooking and presentation of dishes according to Uncle Giuseppe’s standards, recipes and menu
• Have a full understanding of navigating through Zipline to retrieve recipes, answer communications, follow up with Zipline tasks/initiatives
• Ensure food is prepared and cooked to the right specifications and quality
• Maintain consistency in taste, presentation and portion control
• Supervise and guide seafood kitchen staff, including seafood kitchen clerks
• Provide training on cooking techniques, safety standards and proper use of kitchen equipment
• Assign tasks to team members based on skill levels and kitchen needs
• Ensure proper delegation and work flow during busy hours
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, including managing inventory, monitoring stock levels and ensuring proper storage.
• Organize the kitchen efficiently to maintain cleanliness and order
• Ensure all kitchen equipment is functioning properly and address maintenance needs
• Ensure adherence to health and safety regulations (e.g., sanitation, food handling procedures and safety protocols)
• Taste test dishes and ensure they meet Uncle Giuseppe’s standards before they are served
• Adjust recipes and cooking methods if necessary based on your stores facility
• Collaborate with the culinary team on menu planning, including the creation of new dishes or seasonal specials
• Suggest improvements to existing recipes or propose new ideas
• Assist in managing food costs and wastage by controlling portions and minimizing waste during food prep and cooking
• Monitor inventory levels and place orders with Seafood Manager to ensure stock levels are maintained without over-ordering
• Keep track of food costs and report any discrepancies to management
• Work with front-of-house staff to ensure smooth communication between the kitchen and counter
• Occasionally interact with customers, especially during Fish Fry operations
• Stay calm and efficient during high-pressure times, such as rush hours or holidays
• Handle issues or challenges that arise in the kitchen, whether they relate to staff, food preparation, or equipment
• Communicate regularly with seafood management about inventory, staffing, and operational concerns
• Provide feedback about staff performance, kitchen operations and potential improvements
Requirements:
• HS diploma or GED
• 2+ years of experience as a prep or line cook
• Experience leading a kitchen team and cooking in a fast paced retail environment
• Must be able to speak, read and communicate in the English language; bilingual English/Spanish is a plus
• ServSafe food handling certification is preferred
• Sound knowledge of cooking methods and techniques
• May be required to lift objects up to 30 pounds and spend the duration of the shift on your feet
Benefits:
• Medical, dental and vision insurance
• 401(k) program
• 50% off lunch
• 25% off in store shopping
