Line Cook - iCHiNA

Line Cook 

Duties and Responsibilities

Lead line cooks are responsible for preparing food for service and helping to make sure the kitchen stays clean, tidy, and operational. The line cook’s duties usually involve:

Preparing Food

One of the main tasks given to a lead line cook is helping with the preparation of food for cooking or serving. This may include washing and peeling fruits and vegetables, marinating meat, or preparing sauces. While some kitchens employ prep chefs for this, lead line cooks are often involved with this work.

Follow Orders from Supervisors

Lead line cooks are tasked with various duties as they come in, which are assigned by either the head chef or the supervisor. Line cooks are responsible for whatever station they’re assigned to, but may also be given other duties during busier periods.

Stock Work Stations

Ensuring that each station is stocked with the necessary equipment is generally tasked to the line cook. They also check that work stations are clean and meet sanitary regulations at all times.

Check Inventory Stocks

A lead line cook prepares ingredients and supplies each day, which includes checking inventories and the quality of the supplies received. They also ensure that dates and temperatures are checked, and that stock is rotated to be in line with use-by dates for optimum quality.

Comply with Regulations

Health and safety regulations are of paramount importance in a professional kitchen. It’s the lead line cook’s responsibility to ensure that these regulations and standards are met at all times, and that the kitchen remains hygienic. Lead Line Cook Skills and Qualifications

• Listening skills – in a professional kitchen, the ability to follow tasks to the exact requirements is essential, as is following orders from the supervisor each day
• Time management – lead line cooks manage their time effectively and stick to strict deadlines to help the kitchen run smoothly
• Dexterity – line cooks work with sharp objects at a quick pace. Dexterity is important in order to remain safe while still completing tasks to a high standard
• Strength and stamina – lead line cooks work a physically demanding job. Long hours and standing for extended periods of time require high energy, and lifting heavy supply boxes and equipment requires strength
• Teamwork – working well as part of a team is vital to this job, as lead line cooks collaborate with their colleagues at all times. It’s important to maintain a professional approach when working with other members of the team