What does a Prep Cook do?
A Prep Cook washes, cuts, and prepares food and ingredients for cooking. They also prepare all of the kitchen tools necessary for cooking and cleaning, wash dishes, clear up messes, organize the storage areas and shelves in the kitchen, and respond to the needs of Chefs and other cooking staff. Additionally, they ensure food is properly stored and safely handled for consumption. A good Prep Cook is an essential part of the kitchen staff, especially as an aide to a Chef, as they help maximize the workflow in the kitchen.
Prep Cook skills and qualifications
A successful Prep Cook candidate typically has some of the following skills and qualifications:
- Ability to work under pressure
- Excellent verbal communication skills
- Strong organizational skills
- In-depth knowledge of kitchen health and safety requirements
- In-depth knowledge of safe food storage guidelines
- Ability to use kitchen utensils safely
- Ability to take direction and work as a team player
- Knowledge of some specific cooking processes such as reducing sauces, parboiling food, boiling water, or preheating pans and ovens
Prep Cook experience requirements
A Prep Cook is an entry-level position and candidates often don’t have any prior experience, so they learn on the job. However, enrollment in culinary school courses should be considered a strong asset in a candidate.
Prep Cook education and training requirements
As an entry-level job, a Prep Cook does not require any formal training. A good candidate may have a high school diploma, but there are currently no educational standards in place by any regulatory body in Canada for a Prep Cook position. Candidates who are entering into a Chef training program are often favourable as it demonstrates their commitment to the food industry.
Prep Cook salary expectations
According to Indeed Salaries, average pay for a Prep Cook in Canada is $15.73 per hour. Actual wages may vary based on geographical location, size and type of establishment, and level of experience.
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