Prep Cook

Position Overview

Lola's Taco Bar is seeking a dependable, organized, and hardworking Prep Cook to support our kitchen team by ensuring all ingredients, recipes, and stations are prepared to the highest standards. This role is critical to maintaining food quality, consistency, and efficiency during service.

The ideal candidate takes pride in preparation, follows recipes accurately, works cleanly and efficiently, and thrives in a fast-paced restaurant environment.

Key Responsibilities

Food Preparation

• Prepare and portion proteins, vegetables, sauces, salsas, dressings, and other menu components according to company recipes and specifications.
• Follow established prep lists and production schedules to ensure kitchen readiness.
• Accurately weigh, label, date, and store all prepared products.
• Assist with daily preparation for tacos, burritos, bowls, salads, sides, and catering orders.
• Maintain proper rotation using FIFO (First In, First Out) procedures.

Kitchen Operations

• Set up and stock prep stations with necessary ingredients and supplies.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate product needs to management.
• Receive and properly store deliveries.
• Assist line cooks and kitchen supervisors with production needs as required.
• Support catering and large-order preparation when needed.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary work environment.
• Follow all food safety, health department, and company sanitation standards.
• Properly clean and sanitize equipment, prep areas, coolers, and storage spaces.
• Ensure products are handled and stored at safe temperatures.

Teamwork & Culture

• Work collaboratively with kitchen and front-of-house team members.
• Communicate effectively regarding prep needs, shortages, and quality concerns.
• Contribute to a positive, respectful, and team-oriented work environment.
• Uphold Lola's Taco Bar's commitment to hospitality, quality, and consistency.

Qualifications

• Previous prep cook, line cook, or kitchen experience preferred.
• Ability to follow recipes and production procedures consistently.
• Strong attention to detail and organization.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
• Reliable transportation and excellent attendance record.
• Food safety knowledge preferred.

What We Offer

• Competitive pay: $20–$23 per hour
• Flexible scheduling
• Growth opportunities within a growing restaurant company
• Employee meal discounts
• Positive and supportive team environment
• Opportunity to help build and improve systems as we continue to grow

Success in This Role Looks Like

• Prep is completed accurately and on time every day.
• Recipes and portion standards are followed consistently.
• The kitchen remains clean, organized, and inspection-ready.
• Service teams have the products they need to execute efficiently.
• Waste is minimized and food quality remains exceptional.e