Cook

Aloft - Mooresville/Lake Norman | 109 Alcove Rd - Mooresville, NC 28117
We are always looking for people that have a heart for service to join our company. Maya Hotels owns and operates great brands from Hilton, Marriott, & IHG. We understand that creating a desired employee experience is key to helping us deliver exceptional guest experiences and become an employer of choice. We believe that if you take care of your employees, they will in turn take care of your customers and guests.
Job Summary:
A cook is responsible for preparing and cooking a variety of food items in a professional kitchen. They work under the supervision of a chef or kitchen manager and collaborate with other kitchen staff to ensure the efficient and smooth operation of the kitchen. The specific duties and responsibilities of a cook may vary depending on the type and size of the establishment they work in, such as restaurants, hotels, catering companies, or institutional kitchens.
Responsibilities:

1. Food Preparation: Cooks are responsible for preparing ingredients, including washing, cutting, and measuring, according to recipes and menu specifications. They ensure that all food items are properly portioned and prepared for cooking.
2. Cooking and Baking: Cooks perform cooking and baking activities, following established recipes and cooking techniques. They use a variety of kitchen equipment such as stoves, ovens, grills, and fryers to prepare dishes. Cooks must ensure that food is cooked to the appropriate temperature and that it meets quality standards in terms of taste, texture, and presentation.
3. Menu Planning: In some establishments, cooks may contribute to menu planning by providing input on dishes, suggesting new ideas, or creating new recipes. They may also be responsible for preparing daily specials or seasonal menu items.
4. Food Safety and Hygiene: Cooks must adhere to strict food safety and hygiene standards to ensure the health and safety of customers and staff. This includes properly storing and handling food, monitoring cooking temperatures, and maintaining cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen area.
5. Kitchen Organization: Cooks assist in organizing the kitchen by properly storing ingredients, maintaining inventory levels, and ensuring that the kitchen equipment is clean and in working order. They may also be responsible for ordering supplies and monitoring stock levels.
6. Collaboration: Cooks work as part of a team and collaborate with other kitchen staff, such as sous chefs, line cooks, and dishwashers. They communicate effectively to ensure that food is prepared and served in a timely manner and that the kitchen operates smoothly during busy periods.
7. Quality Control: Cooks are responsible for monitoring the quality of food throughout the cooking process. They taste and inspect dishes to ensure that they meet the established standards of taste, appearance, and texture.
8. Adaptability: Cooks should be flexible and able to adapt to changes in the menu, kitchen procedures, or customer requests. They should be able to work efficiently under pressure and handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
9. Cleaning and Maintenance: Cooks participate in cleaning duties, including washing dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment. They also assist in cleaning the kitchen area, floors, and surfaces, ensuring a clean and organized work environment.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Previous experience as a cook or culinary training is typically required.
• Knowledge of food preparation techniques, cooking methods, and culinary terminology.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and handle pressure.
• Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
• Good communication and teamwork abilities.
• Physical stamina and the ability to stand for long periods and lift heavy objects.
• Flexibility in working hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

This job description is intended to provide an overview of the responsibilities and requirements of the position. May be asked to perform any other duties as assigned by the direct supervisor.