Alayna Saunders
Harrisonburg,VA
Summary
Accomplished Culinary Professional with a proven track record at Olive Garden, enhancing kitchen efficiency and diner satisfaction through expert application of cooking methods and strong teamwork. Demonstrated excellence in food safety and presentation, significantly reducing preparation times and waste. Detail-oriented professional with background creating delicious dishes. Dedicated to delivering highest quality customer service. Expert at succeeding in high pressure environments while remaining calm. Safety-minded when carefully following food handling regulations and procedures.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Culinary Professional
Olive Garden
11.2021 - Current
- Reduced wait times for diners by streamlining plating processes without compromising presentation quality or taste.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to maintain efficient workflows, reducing food preparation time and waste.
- Maintained strict adherence to food safety regulations, resulting in an exceptional record of passing health inspections.
- Trained new hires on kitchen procedures and protocols, contributing to a cohesive team environment focused on excellence in service delivery.
- Managed efficient kitchen operations during peak service hours, maintaining smooth workflow under pressure while delivering exceptional results.
- Mentored junior chefs on proper culinary techniques, elevating overall team performance and quality of dishes presented.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by creating visually appealing and delicious dishes using a variety of cooking techniques.
Line Cook
Olive Garden
11.2021 - Current
- Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain a clean and safe working environment, adhering to health and safety guidelines.
- Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
- Adapted quickly to new recipes and techniques, demonstrating versatility and eagerness to learn from colleagues.
- Prepared food items such as meats, poultry, and fish for frying purposes.
- Upheld strict sanitation standards while preparing meals, maintaining a clean workspace free of cross-contamination risks.
- Checked food temperature regularly to verify proper cooking and safety.
- Expedited service during peak hours by coordinating with fellow line cooks on timing of dish completion.
- Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
- Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
- Supported head chef during high-volume periods by efficiently executing complex tasks with precision under pressure.
- Grilled meats and seafood to customer specifications.
- Demonstrated proficiency in using various kitchen equipment safely for efficient food preparation.
- Instructed new staff in proper food preparation, storage, use of kitchen equipment and sanitation.
- Trained new kitchen staff on food safety, preparation and cooking techniques.
- Monitored food quality and presentation to maintain high standards.
- Prepared food items in compliance with recipes and portioning control guidelines.
- Prepared and cooked meals according to recipes and customer specifications.
Crew Member
Chipotle Grill
09.2017 - 10.2021
- Worked front counter, cash register, grill, and other areas.
- Cleaned and maintained all areas of restaurant to promote clean image.
- Maintained high-quality food preparation standards, adhering to company guidelines for safety and cleanliness.
- Helped maintain a clean and welcoming dining area for customers, boosting overall satisfaction during their visit.
- Trained new team members on procedures, customer service, and sales techniques.
- Became familiar with products to answer questions and make suggestions.
- Operated cash register to ring up final bill and process various forms of payment.
- Ensured proper food storage protocols were followed, contributing to improved food safety measures within the establishment.
- Took orders, prepared meals, and collected payments.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, handling multiple orders simultaneously without compromising quality or efficiency.
- Worked well with teammates and accepted coaching from management team.
Education
No Degree - Art Education Major
James Madison University
Harrisonburg, VAHigh School Diploma -
Glen Allen High School
Glen Allen, VA05.2018
Skills
- Cooking methods
- Knife Skills
- Sanitation Practices
- Food presentation
- Allergen awareness
- Cleaning and sanitizing
- Food Preparation
- Teamwork and Collaboration
- Problem-Solving
- Cleaning and organization
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
Accomplishments
Awarded "Employee of the Month" at Chipotle Mexican Grill within two months of working there. No one else was awarded the title.
Timeline
Culinary Professional
Olive Garden
11.2021 - Current
Line Cook
Olive Garden
11.2021 - Current
Crew Member
Chipotle Grill
09.2017 - 10.2021
No Degree - Art Education Major
James Madison University
High School Diploma -
Glen Allen High School
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