Prep Cook

Prep Cook – Zanti Cucina Italiana

Zanti Cucina Trattoria is seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Prep Cook to join our Back of House team. In this role, you’ll be responsible for preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations to ensure smooth service and exceptional food quality in a fine dining Italian setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, portion, and cook food items according to standardized recipes and quality specifications.
• Follow proper techniques, ingredient standards, and equipment usage as outlined by the culinary team.
• Ensure all food preparation meets company standards and international food safety regulations.
• Assess ingredients for freshness and rotate stock to maintain quality and minimize waste.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization of prep areas, coolers, and storage spaces.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely and according to manufacturer guidelines.
• Participate in daily kitchen briefings and communicate supply needs or concerns.
• Prepare mise en place and production lists for current and next-day service.
• Support other kitchen stations as needed and assist with cross-prep.
• Ensure proper storage of raw and cooked items, following food safety protocols.
• Execute closing procedures and shift handoffs according to checklists.
• Report equipment malfunctions or safety issues to the Chef or Supervisor.
• Contribute to maintaining a clean, efficient, and collaborative kitchen environment.

Specific Duties

• Follow all sanitation and safety procedures in compliance with local and international standards.
• Stock and maintain assigned prep stations.
• Visually inspect food before service to ensure quality and presentation.
• Practice proper food handling, storage, and rotation (FIFO).
• Assist with inventory checks and supply requests.
• Prepare food for other departments as needed.
• Cook only what is necessary to maintain freshness and reduce waste.
• Ensure all food is properly labeled, dated, and stored at correct temperatures.
• Use kitchen resources efficiently to reduce energy and water consumption.

Working conditions

Position requires prolonged standing, bending, stooping, lifting products and supplies weighing 45 pounds, and repetitive hand and wrist motion.  Work with hot, cold, and hazardous equipment.

Requirements

• Minimum 1 year of experience in a professional kitchen, preferably in prep or line work.
• High school diploma or equivalent.
• Food Safety Certification required.
• Experience with Italian cuisine and scratch cooking is a plus.
• Strong knowledge of food prep techniques, kitchen tools, and sanitation standards.
• Ability to work lunch and dinner shifts, including weekends and holidays.
• Must be eligible to work in the U.S. and pass a background check.
• Able to lift up to 45 lbs., stand for long periods, and work in hot/cold environments.

What We Offer

• Competitive hourly pay
• Staff meals and employee discounts
• Opportunities for growth in a professional, high-end culinary environment

Why Join Zanti?

At Zanti, we celebrate culinary excellence and teamwork. As a Prep Cook, you’ll play a vital role in delivering the quality and consistency our guests expect, while gaining valuable experience in a fine dining kitchen rooted in Italian tradition.

Zanti Cucina Italiana is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.