Job Summary The Cook I prepares and cooks meals in accordance with established menus, recipes, and portion guidelines. This role ensures that meals are prepared safely and meet quality standards, while maintaining a clean and sanitary kitchen environment. The Cook I contributes to efficient food service operations by following departmental policies and assisting with cleaning and sanitation tasks as needed. Essential Functions • Prepares and cooks food items according to established recipes, production sheets, and portion guidelines, ensuring quality and consistency. • Reviews menus and secures necessary ingredients from storage, notifying appropriate personnel of shortages or substitutions. • Cleans, seasons, and cooks a variety of foods while adhering to food safety standards and regulations. • Measures, mixes, and cooks ingredients in accordance with recipes, tasting finished products to ensure quality. • Maintains cleanliness and sanitation of cooking equipment and work areas, ensuring compliance with state and local health regulations. • Records food temperatures during preparation and on the serving line to ensure safety and compliance with food handling standards. • Participates in serving meals on the tray line, ensuring correct portions and temperatures for hot and cold foods. • Assists with cleaning and sanitizing dishes, pots, pans, utensils, and other kitchen items as needed. • Recommends menu or recipe adjustments to the Chef or Sous Chef to improve efficiency or address shortages. • Performs other duties as assigned. • Maintains regular and reliable attendance. • Complies with all policies and standards. Qualifications • 1-3 years of experience in food preparation or a similar role required Knowledge, Skills and Abilities • Knowledge of food preparation techniques, recipes, and safety standards. • Strong attention to detail to ensure accurate measurements and adherence to recipes. • Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining safety and quality. • Good communication and teamwork skills to collaborate with kitchen staff. • Physical ability to lift and carry heavy items and stand for extended periods. Licenses and Certifications • Food Handler’s certification as applicable by local or state regulations required State Specific Requirements • Arizona: Arizona Health Department Sanitation Certificate, ServeSafe Certificate, or Arizona Food Handler Certificate required.