Cook duties and responsibilities
Cooks ensure a kitchen runs smoothly and effectively. They also keep track of kitchen inventory and promote food safety. They maintain cleanliness and order, manage other employees, serve as liaison officers between the kitchen and Servers, and ensure their workplace is compliant with local safety standards. Other duties and responsibilities that Cooks need to excel at include:
- Taking orders from the wait staff and preparing food according to customer preference
- Ensuring a high standard of cleanliness and order
- Training staff in preparation, cooking, and handling of foods
- Monitoring and managing cooking tools and ingredients
- Making adjustments to accommodate clients with specific diet and health concerns
- Setting up the work station
- Developing recipes that comply with company policy
Cook skills and qualifications
Successful Cooks are detail-oriented, creative, and intelligent. Top Cooks must also be critical thinkers and know how they can modify recipes to meet customers’ needs. They must also have strong knowledge of food handling procedures. Other skills and qualifications for Cooks include:
- Experience in using different cooking tools, equipment, and utensils
- Expert knowledge of various cooking methods and procedures
- Strong communication skills, both written and verbal
- Understanding of food preparation techniques
- Able to withstand long hours of standing, bending, and moving around
- Basic knowledge of mathematics to make correct measurements of ingredients
- Ability to follow recipe instructions
Cook experience requirements
Cooks typically should have anywhere from three to five years of experience for most cook positions. Though some positions may require less experience, especially if it is an entry-level Cook position. Some Cooks may also be required to have experience in the same cuisine as what’s offered in the establishment. If prior work experience is not required, or extensive on-site training is offered, make sure to include this in the job listing.
Cook education and training requirements
A high school diploma, GED, or its equivalent is the general base requirement for this position. Candidates with a bachelor’s degree in culinary arts or a related field may have an advantage over candidates without this education. Additionally, candidates who have completed a three-year apprenticeship program often stand out among other candidates who have not completed this type of program.
Cook salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, the average salary for a cook is $16.56 per hour in Canada. However, this may be dependent on the location of the restaurant, the experience level required of the applicant, the type of cuisine served at the restaurant, and specific company requirements.
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