Line Cook - Dakota Counseling Institute

Job Description: Line Cook at Dakota Counseling Institute/Stepping Stones SD

Job Description: Line Cook

About Dakota Counseling Institute/Stepping Stones SD

Dakota Counseling Institute/Stepping Stones SD is a leading non-profit organization dedicated to providing mental health and addiction services to individuals and families in South Dakota. Our mission is to empower individuals to lead fulfilling lives through compassionate care, education, and support.

Responsibilities

• Prepare and cook delicious and visually appealing meals in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Follow standardized recipes and adjust the quantity of ingredients as necessary to ensure consistency in taste, presentation, and nutrition.
• Adhere to all food safety and sanitation guidelines, maintaining a clean and organized workspace at all times.
• Collaborate with the Kitchen Manager and other team members to plan menus, estimate food requirements, and order supplies.
• Inspect and ensure the quality and freshness of ingredients before each use.
• Prepare ingredients and perform necessary food preparation techniques such as chopping, slicing, dicing, and marinating.
• Demonstrate creativity and flexibility in making adjustments to recipes to accommodate dietary restrictions or special requests.
• Monitor cooking processes, such as baking, boiling, grilling, and frying, to ensure proper cooking times and temperatures are followed.
• Plate and garnish dishes following established presentation guidelines.
• Maintain knowledge of current menu items, specials, and ingredients to provide accurate information and answer customer inquiries.
• Clean and maintain kitchen equipment, utensils, and tools.
• Assist in kitchen inventory management, monitoring stock levels and reporting shortages.
• Ensure all food products are dated, labeled, and stored properly to prevent spoilage or cross-contamination.
• Collaborate with the Kitchen Manager to develop new menu items and seasonal food offerings.
• Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, providing guidance on cooking techniques and food presentation.
• Follow workplace health and safety regulations, including proper lifting techniques and the use of protective equipment.
• Communicate effectively and professionally with coworkers, managers, and customers to ensure a positive and efficient work environment.
• Participate in regular team meetings and training sessions to enhance culinary skills and stay updated on organizational policies and procedures.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Line Cook or relevant role in a fast-paced kitchen setting.
• Strong knowledge of various cooking methods, techniques, and equipment.
• Ability to follow recipes accurately and adjust quantities based on volume requirements.
• Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Ability to work efficiently under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Excellent attention to detail, organization, and time-management skills.
• Ability to multitask and prioritize tasks effectively.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Team player with a positive and professional attitude.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Culinary degree or relevant certification is a plus.

Physical Requirements

The Line Cook position requires the ability to:

• Stand for long periods of time.
• Lift and carry heavy objects, such as pots, pans, and kitchen supplies.
• Bend, stoop, and reach.
• Maneuver through crowded kitchen spaces.

Work Environment

This position primarily operates in a fast-paced kitchen environment, with exposure to hot surfaces, sharp equipment, and potentially hazardous materials. The noise level in the work environment can be moderate to loud.