Use this Prep Cook job description template to attract organized, efficient, and detail-oriented kitchen professionals who can support food preparation and maintain smooth back-of-house operations.
A Prep Cook is a kitchen professional responsible for preparing ingredients, organizing workstations, and assisting chefs and line cooks in delivering consistent, high-quality meals. They ensure the kitchen runs efficiently by completing essential prep tasks before and during service.
A Prep Cook performs essential food preparation tasks to support kitchen operations. Key responsibilities include:
- Washing, chopping, slicing, and measuring ingredients.
- Preparing basic recipes and sauces as instructed.
- Labeling and storing food properly to maintain freshness.
- Keeping prep stations clean, stocked, and organized.
- Following food safety and sanitation guidelines.
Prep Cook Job Description Template
We are looking for a hardworking and reliable Prep Cook to support our kitchen team. The ideal candidate will have a strong work ethic, basic cooking knowledge, and a commitment to cleanliness and organization. You will help ensure ingredients and prep items are ready for service, contributing to a smooth and efficient kitchen operation.
Roles & Responsibilities
- Prepare ingredients by washing, chopping, slicing, mixing, and measuring as needed.
- Assist chefs with basic cooking tasks and recipe preparation.
- Label, date, and store food items properly to maintain freshness.
- Set up and stock prep stations before each shift.
- Follow all food safety standards and sanitation guidelines.
- Maintain cleanliness of workstations, utensils, and kitchen equipment.
- Monitor inventory and communicate shortages to supervisors.
- Portion and package food items for service or storage.
- Assist with receiving and storing deliveries.
- Support line cooks and chefs during busy service hours.
Requirements & Skills
- High school diploma or equivalent (preferred).
- Previous kitchen experience is a plus but not required.
- Basic understanding of cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
- Ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately.
- Strong time-management and organizational skills.
- Ability to work in a fast-paced environment.
- Physical stamina to stand for long periods and lift moderate weights.
- Knowledge of safe food handling and sanitation practices.
- Team player with a positive and cooperative attitude.
Who do Prep Cooks report to?
Prep Cooks typically report to:
- Head Chef
- Sous Chef
- Kitchen Manager
- Line Cook Lead
Post this on job boards and career pages to hire individuals skilled in kitchen prep, food safety, and restaurant teamwork. Feel free to customize based on your restaurant or hospitality needs. Similar job titles include Kitchen Prep, Line Prep Cook, and Food Prep Worker.
How to Assess Prep Cook Skills Effectively
Candidates may list kitchen or food preparation experience on their resumes, but assessing their actual ability to prepare ingredients, follow recipes, and maintain kitchen hygiene before the interview is crucial. A structured Prep Cook assessment ensures you hire professionals who can keep your kitchen running smoothly and support chefs efficiently.
Here’s how you can assess prep cook proficiency effectively:
- Food Preparation & Knife Skills – Test candidates on their ability to chop, slice, dice, and prepare ingredients consistently and safely.
- Recipe Following & Portion Accuracy – Evaluate their capability to follow recipes precisely, measure ingredients correctly, and maintain portion standards.
- Kitchen Hygiene & Food Safety – Assess their understanding of sanitation practices, proper food storage, and cross-contamination prevention.
- Speed, Organization & Station Setup – Check their efficiency in preparing ingredients ahead of service, setting up stations, and maintaining a clean workspace.
- Teamwork & Communication – Ensure they can coordinate smoothly with chefs, line cooks, and other kitchen staff during busy service hours.
With Prep Cook assessments, you can efficiently filter out underqualified candidates, streamline the hiring process, and ensure high-quality hires who can support fast, safe, and consistent kitchen operations.
