POSITION SUMMARY
The Prep Cook is responsible for preparing the fresh ingredients and base items that fuel every shift at Wicked Cantina. This role supports the line by
washing, cutting, portioning, and storing food, executing prep lists accurately, and maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the prep area in
accordance with Wicked Cantina recipes and Florida Department of Health standards.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Wash, peel, chop, slice, dice, and portion vegetables, fruits, meats, poultry, and seafood to Wicked Cantina recipe specifications.
2. Prepare sauces, salsas, marinades, stocks, soups, and other base items as directed by the Kitchen Manager.
3. Measure and assemble ingredients for menu items and prep lists prior to service.
4. Label, date, and properly store all prepped items using FIFO (First-In, First-Out) rotation.
5. Maintain a clean, organized prep area before, during, and after each shift.
6. Operate kitchen equipment safely, including knives, slicers, mixers, blenders, ovens, and grills.
7. Monitor food quality and freshness; report spoilage, waste, or shortages to the Kitchen Manager.
8. Follow all food-safety, sanitation, and HACCP guidelines, including handwashing, glove use, and temperature control.
9. Assist line cooks during service as needed and support plating, garnishing, or expediting.
10. Receive, inspect, and properly store deliveries; rotate stock and notify the Kitchen Manager of inventory needs.
11. Clean and sanitize kitchen surfaces, equipment, walk-ins, refrigerators, and storage areas.
12. Complete opening, closing, and side-work checklists as assigned.
QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS
• Must be at least 18 years of age.
• Prior kitchen, prep, or food-service experience preferred but not
required; willingness to learn is essential.
• Florida Food Handler Certificate required within 30 days of hire.
• Basic knife skills and familiarity with standard kitchen equipment.
• Ability to read and follow recipes, prep lists, and verbal/written
instructions in English.
• Strong attention to detail, organization, and time management.
• Flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays.
PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS
• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and reach continuously for shifts of up to
10 hours.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 50 pounds regularly.
• Frequent bending, stooping, reaching, twisting, and fine hand
movements.
• Ability to work in environments with varying temperatures (hot
kitchens, walk-in coolers, and freezers).
• Ability to safely handle sharp tools, hot surfaces, hot liquids, and
cleaning chemicals.
• Ability to tolerate exposure to common kitchen allergens including
dairy, shellfish, gluten, and spices.