Brandon Gagner
Prosser,WA
Summary
Forward-thinking professional offering more than 15+ years of experience working in fast-paced kitchens. Skilled at staying focused and productive in high-stress situations and maintaining calmness in busy times. Excellent and proven skills in creating unique and delicious dishes while controlling food and labor costs, managing kitchen staff while being collaborative and committed to seeking feedback from customers and staff to improve kitchen workflow to keeping high standards of food safety and sanitation.
Overview
8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Chef
Snipes Mountain Microbrewery & Restaurant
Sunnyside, WA
04.2023 - 09.2023
- Optimized food preparation processes, implementing time-saving techniques without compromising quality.
- Oversaw grill, stove, and oven, and cleaned equipment after every shift.
- Streamlined kitchen operations for increased efficiency through effective staff management and delegation.
- Utilized culinary techniques to create visually appealing dishes.
- Maintained well-organized mise en place to keep work consistent.
- Collaborated effectively with front-of-house team for seamless dining experience and positive customer feedback.
- Disciplined and dedicated to meeting high-quality standards.
- Successfully met dietary requirements for diverse clientele by providing customized meal options upon request.
- Coordinated with team members to prepare orders on time.
- Upheld stringent food safety regulations, ensuring compliance with all relevant health department guidelines.
- Prepared meals from scratch using authentic, popular recipes to generate repeat business.
- Collaborated with staff members to create meals for large banquets.
- Handled and stored food to eliminate illness and prevent cross-contamination.
- Cultivated a positive work culture among kitchen staff through open communication lines and mutual respect within the team.
- Utilized proper cleaning techniques to sanitize counters and utensils used in preparation of raw meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.
- Prevented cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and pans when cooking and plating meals for food allergy sufferers.
- Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
Line Cook/Food Preparation Worker
Denny's Restaurant
Sunnyside, WA
08.2022 - 05.2023
- Kept kitchen clean and organized by performing daily maintenance tasks.
- Maintained consistent portion control, ensuring uniformity in presentation and reducing food waste.
- Plated and presented all dishes to match established restaurant standards.
- Created identical dishes numerous times daily with consistent care, attention to detail, and quality.
- Boosted employee morale through positive attitude, willingness to assist others when needed.
- Tasted, smelled, and pierced food with fork to verify sufficient cooking.
- Followed health, safety and sanitation guidelines while preparing and serving food.
- Prepared food items such as meats, poultry, and fish for frying purposes.
- Followed restaurant stock management schedule to monitor product freshness and rotate out old products.
- Prepared and cooked full course meals based on restaurant recipes and specifications.
- Checked for quality, kept track of old and new items and rotated stock to confirm freshness of food and ingredients.
- Increased kitchen productivity by keeping tools organized for easy access when needed.
- Upheld strict sanitation standards while preparing meals, maintaining a clean workspace free of cross-contamination risks.
- Improved kitchen efficiency by streamlining prep tasks and effectively organizing workstations.
- Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
- Expedited service during peak hours by coordinating with fellow line cooks on timing of dish completion.
- Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
- Trained new kitchen staff on food safety, preparation and cooking techniques.
- Operated varied kitchen equipment, observing operation guidelines to avoid accidents and prevent malfunctions.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality dishes in a timely manner.
- Mastered various cooking techniques, broadening menu offerings and introducing innovative dishes.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain a clean and safe working environment, adhering to health and safety guidelines.
- Maintained smooth and timely operations in preparation and delivery of meals.
- Monitored food quality and presentation to maintain high standards.
KFC/Taco Bell Cook
KFC/Taco Bell
Prosser, WA
01.2022 - 08.2022
- Coordinated checklists to keep kitchen clean, stocked and sanitary.
- Restocked inventory and ingredient items to maintain optimal kitchen efficiency.
- Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
- Maintained a clean and sanitary workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Streamlined kitchen operations with effective communication and collaboration among team members.
- Trained and supervised cooking staff to expertly meet daily needs.
- Monitored food quality and presentation to maintain high standards.
- Followed strict standards for food handling and safety, minimizing risks to customers.
- Instructed new staff in proper food preparation, storage, use of kitchen equipment and sanitation.
- Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
- Tasted, smelled, and pierced food with fork to verify sufficient cooking.
- Prepared meals efficiently under time constraints for timely service during peak hours.
- Maintained food safety and sanitation standards.
- Measured, weighed, and mixed appropriate ingredients according to recipe directions.
- Maintained clean and organized work areas at all times to bring safety and quality to food preparation process.
- Prepared and served various food items in fast-paced [Type] environment.
- Measured and mixed ingredients according to precise recipes for best results.
- Contributed to consistent customer satisfaction rating by producing high-quality food and providing timely service.
Overnight Kitchen Lead
Denny's Restaurant
Sunnyside, WA
01.2020 - 06.2020
- Assisted in setting up and breaking down kitchen stations.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by ensuring timely and accurate order fulfillment.
- Led cross-functional teams during special events or catering engagements to deliver exceptional food quality and service to clients.
- Monitored inventory levels to prevent stock shortages during peak service hours or special events.
- Lifted and carried heavy materials.
- Ensured consistent quality in all dishes served by implementing standardized recipes and portion control measures.
- Checked and tested foods to verify quality and temperature.
- Cleaned and maintained work areas, equipment and utensils.
- Prepared sandwiches, salads and other specialty items according to customer specifications.
- Washed, peeled and cut various foods such as fruits and vegetables to prepare for cooking or serving.
- Monitored food temperature, discarding items not stored correctly.
- Reduced kitchen accidents by maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organization.
- Streamlined meal preparation processes, resulting in reduced wait times for customers.
- Created and deployed successful strategies to boost restaurant performance, streamline food prep processes and reduce waste.
- Trained new staff on food preparation and safety procedures.
- Pushed, pulled and transported large loads and objects.
- Maintained composure and work quality while under stress.
- Conducted daily checks of refrigerators and freezers to verify proper food storage, container labeling, and surface cleaning.
- Operated food slicers, grinders and chopper in accordance with safety guidelines.
- Coordinated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless communication between the kitchen and dining area.
- Stocked and rotated food items according to expiration dates.
- Maintained high personal grooming standards and uniform presentation.
- Delegated food preparation duties down to cooks and followed up with cooks to verify proper preparation and production of meals.
- Sanitized pots, pans, utensils, kitchen appliances and equipment using company-approved cleaning supplies.
- Loaded dishes, glasses and tableware into dishwashing machines.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
- Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
Shift Leader
Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores/ Carl's Jr.
Prosser, WA
02.2018 - 04.2019
- Collaborated with other shift leaders to maintain consistent standards across all shifts, promoting a cohesive workplace culture.
- Helped meet changing demands by recommending improvements to business systems or procedures.
- Trained new employees and delegated daily tasks and responsibilities.
- Enforced company policies and regulations with employees.
- Evaluated customer needs and feedback to drive product and service improvements.
- Streamlined inventory management processes, leading to reduced waste and optimized stock levels.
- Collected, arranged, and input information into database system.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction through prompt and courteous service, addressing concerns immediately.
- Delivered superior training and leadership to teams to boost performance and help team members achieve performance targets.
- Conducted regular evaluations of employee performance, providing constructive feedback for continuous improvement.
- Completed cash and credit card transactions accurately using POS software.
- Managed shift operations, supplied resources and monitored team performance to keep business profitable and running smoothly.
- Maintained a clean and safe work environment while ensuring all employees adhered to safety guidelines and protocols.
- Frequently inspected production area to verify proper equipment operation.
- Resolved conflicts between team members in a professional manner, preserving strong working relationships in the process.
- Maintained overall safe work environment with employee training programs and enforcement of safety procedures.
- Oversaw daily cash handling procedures, maintaining accurate records and minimizing discrepancies.
- Optimized customer experience by delivering superior services and effectively troubleshooting issues.
- Developed strong communication skills among staff members by encouraging open dialogue during shift meetings or one-on-one discussions.
- Maintained clean and well-organized production areas to avoid violations or unnecessary work delays due to hazards or inefficient layouts.
- Managed inventory and ordered supplies to keep location well stocked with necessary supplies.
- Provided ongoing training for new hires, fostering a positive team atmosphere that encouraged growth and development.
- Exercised leadership capabilities by successfully motivating and inspiring others.
- Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
Bartender/Shift Lead
MJ's Tavern
Grandview, WA
10.2015 - 12.2017
- Prepared garnishes by evenly slicing and pitting fruits.
- Developed new signature cocktails to support bar marketing brand and increase profits.
- Implemented drink prep procedures, significantly reducing wasted stock.
- Served high customer volumes during special events, nights, and weekends.
- Followed strict recipes and drink measurements to minimize product used.
- Practiced safe work habits, wearing protective equipment and consistently following MSDS and OSHA standards.
- Kept bar presentable and well-stocked to meet customer needs.
- Explained daily specials and beverage promotions to exceed daily sales goals.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing exceptional service and crafting high-quality cocktails.
- Tracked bar stock levels and promptly replenished low materials to prevent shortages.
- Performed opening and closing duties, printing sales reports, setting up for incoming shift, preparing cash drawers, and taking inventory.
- Mixed unique and interesting cocktails for customers, including bar specials.
- Kept bar stocked with liquors, juices and garnishes for drinks.
- Handled simultaneous customer, team, and business needs while avoiding unnecessary delays or errors.
- Maintained secure cash drawers, promptly resolving discrepancies in daily totals.
- Built relationships with vendors to manage orders and negotiate costs.
- Conducted regular inventory count to keep bar and drink supplies stocked, avoiding expensive rush orders.
- Obtained cash bank and stocked service bar to prepare for operation.
- Upheld strict regulations for safe alcohol service and food safety.
- Developed a strong rapport with patrons, resulting in repeat business and increased loyalty.
- Trained new bartenders on drink preparation, product promotion, garnish preparation, and sanitation protocol.
- Adhered to state laws regarding alcoholic beverage services and customer regulations.
- Organized bar inventory and storage procedures to keep stock within optimal levels and meet expected customer demands.
- Upsold menu items to customers, driving up per sale revenues and maximizing profits.
- Monitored cash handling procedures to ensure accuracy in transactions while minimizing instances of theft or loss.
- Resolved customer complaints promptly and professionally, preserving the establishment''s reputation for excellent service.
- Used extensive knowledge of beer, wine and spirits to make informed recommendations to customers.
Bartender/Server
Sports Center Bar
Grandview, WA
10.2015 - 12.2017
- Cultivated strong relationships with repeat customers, engaging in friendly conversation and memorizing drink orders to promote loyalty.
- Consistently met or exceeded sales targets by upselling premium products without compromising guest satisfaction.
- Upsold menu items to customers, driving up per sale revenues and maximizing profits.
- Streamlined inventory management, accurately tracking stock levels to minimize waste and control costs.
- Developed creative bar menus and drink recipes by researching emerging industry trends.
- Kept bar stocked with liquors, juices and garnishes for drinks.
- Mixed unique and interesting cocktails for customers, including bar specials.
- Enhanced overall guest experience by promptly addressing concerns and resolving issues professionally.
- Followed strict recipes and drink measurements to minimize product used.
- Increased customer satisfaction by providing excellent service and crafting high-quality cocktails.
- Organized bar inventory and storage procedures to keep stock within optimal levels and meet expected customer demands.
- Reduced wait times for drinks by efficiently managing the bar area and prioritizing orders.
- Followed alcohol awareness procedures for preventing excessive guest intoxication.
- Explained daily specials and beverage promotions to exceed daily sales goals.
- Assisted with inventorying beverage stock and bar supplies.
Education
High School Diploma -
Prosser High School
Prosser, WA2010
GED -
Yakima Valley Community College
Grandview, WA2010
Skills
- Prioritization and Organization
- Food and Beverage Service
- Sanitation Guidelines
- Hospitality service expertise
- Culinary expertise
- Verbal and written communication
- Food Production
- Staff Scheduling
- Kitchen equipment operation and maintenance
- Special diets understanding
- Team Training
- Food inventories
- Team Leadership
- Kitchen Operations Oversight
- Safe Food Handling
- Food Preparing, Plating, and Presentation
- Kitchen Operations
- Food Stock and Supply Management
- Kitchen Management
Certification
- Servsafe
- MAST Permit
- Food Handler Certification
- Driver's License
Additional Information - References
- Jennifer Jasso -Friend[6+years] - (509) 303 1388
- Joel Beltran -Friend[10+years] - (509) 832 4207
- Matt Schafer -Friend/Coworker [10+years] -(509) 778 2791
- Jessica Brown -Friend/Coworker [10+years] -(509) 212 6649
Personal Information
Work Permit: Authorized to work in the US for any employer
Timeline
Chef
Snipes Mountain Microbrewery & Restaurant
04.2023 - 09.2023
Line Cook/Food Preparation Worker
Denny's Restaurant
08.2022 - 05.2023
KFC/Taco Bell Cook
KFC/Taco Bell
01.2022 - 08.2022
Overnight Kitchen Lead
Denny's Restaurant
01.2020 - 06.2020
Shift Leader
Love's Travel Stops & Country Stores/ Carl's Jr.
02.2018 - 04.2019
Bartender/Shift Lead
MJ's Tavern
10.2015 - 12.2017
Bartender/Server
Sports Center Bar
10.2015 - 12.2017
High School Diploma -
Prosser High School
GED -
Yakima Valley Community College