Part-Time Food Services Team Member (Jonesboro)
Arkansas State University - Newport

Part-Time Food Services Team Member

Arkansas State University- Newport

Job Summary:

The Cafeteria Cook is responsible for preparing and cooking meals for students, faculty, and staff in a college cafeteria setting. This position requires adherence to established menu plans, food safety standards, and kitchen cleanliness procedures. The Cook must be able to handle a fast-paced environment, manage time effectively, and maintain high standards for food quality and hygiene.

Key Responsibilities:

Food Preparation and Cooking:

• Prepare and cook daily lunch offerings based on the pre-established menu.
• Cook a variety of dishes including hot entrees, side dishes, salads, and desserts.
• Ensure that all food items are prepared in accordance with recipes, portion sizes, and dietary guidelines.
• Adjust recipes as needed, particularly for special dietary needs or allergies.
• Operate kitchen equipment such as ovens, stoves, grills, fryers, and other cooking tools.

Menu and Recipe Adherence:

• Follow established recipes to prepare meals consistently.
• Ensure that meals are prepared efficiently while maintaining quality and taste.
• Assist in developing menus and making recommendations based on the seasonal availability of ingredients, dietary needs, and student preferences.

Food Safety and Sanitation:

• Follow proper food safety and sanitation guidelines as mandated by local health codes and regulations.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, including workstations, utensils, and equipment.
• Monitor and record food temperatures to ensure food safety standards are met.
• Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces and utensils regularly.
• Properly store food items and ingredients to avoid contamination.

Inventory and Stock Management:

• Assist in the inventory of food supplies and ensure that sufficient ingredients are available for meal preparation.
• Report any shortages or overstock issues to the Director.
• Maintain proper storage techniques for ingredients, ensuring food is stored at the correct temperatures.

Team Collaboration:

• Work as part of a team to ensure the timely preparation and delivery of meals.
• Coordinate with other kitchen staff and food service workers to ensure smooth operation during mealtimes.
• Assist in the training of new kitchen staff or student workers.

Customer Service:

• Ensure food is served in an attractive and appetizing manner.
• Assist in serving food to students, faculty, and staff, ensuring prompt service and maintaining a positive attitude.
• Address any special dietary requests or food allergies when necessary.

Qualifications:

Education:

• High School Diploma or equivalent required.
• Serve Safe Food Handler Permit preferred

Experience:

• Experience in a professional kitchen required.
• Experience with large-scale meal preparation is a plus.

Skills:

• Knowledge of food safety regulations and sanitation practices.
• Strong culinary skills, with the ability to cook a variety of dishes.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and communicate with kitchen staff and supervisors.
• Good organizational skills and attention to detail.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 40 pounds.
• Ability to work in a kitchen environment that may involve exposure to hot surfaces and equipment.

Work Environment:

The work is primarily performed in a kitchen environment within the college cafeteria.

Shifts are typically during lunch hours, with some flexibility required for preparation and cleanup.

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