Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Generic

Donnika Hamilton

Quincy,CA

Summary

Dynamic culinary professional with extensive experience as Head Cook at Plumas Senior Nutrition, excelling in meal preparation and staff management. Proven track record in reducing food waste by 20% through effective inventory control and implementing streamlined kitchen processes. Strong communicator and team leader, dedicated to enhancing dining experiences and ensuring food safety standards.

Overview

2026
2026
years of professional experience

Work History

Head Cook

Plumas Senior Nutrition
  • Supervised kitchen staff to ensure adherence to food safety standards and hygiene practices.
  • Developed and executed diverse meal plans catering to various dietary needs of senior residents.
  • Managed inventory control, reducing food waste through effective stock rotation and portion management.
  • Trained new cooks on preparation techniques and safety protocols, enhancing team efficiency and skill levels.
  • Implemented streamlined cooking processes, improving kitchen workflow and reducing meal preparation time.
  • Conducted regular quality checks on prepared meals, ensuring consistency in taste and presentation standards.
  • Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
  • Coordinated special events, preparing themed meals that increased resident engagement and satisfaction in dining experiences.
  • Maintained high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in the kitchen, meeting or exceeding health department requirements.
  • Inspected freezer and refrigerator daily to check and maintain proper temperatures.
  • Maintained high food quality standards by checking delivery contents to verify product quality and quantity.
  • Efficiently handled high-volume service periods without sacrificing quality or consistency in food preparation.
  • Prevented cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and pans when cooking and plating meals for food allergy sufferers.
  • Managed kitchen staff, ensuring proper training and adherence to safety protocols for a safe working environment.
  • Scheduled and received food and beverage deliveries, adhering to food cost and budget.
  • Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
  • Oversaw scheduling, inventory management, and supply ordering to maintain fully stocked kitchen.
  • Monitored food preparation processes to maintain consistent taste, texture, and presentation of dishes.
  • Reduced food waste by implementing inventory management systems and optimizing ingredient usage.
  • Developed new menu items for increased customer satisfaction and repeat business.
  • Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining cooking processes and implementing time-saving techniques.
  • Implemented cost-effective measures in the procurement of ingredients, resulting in significant savings without sacrificing quality.
  • Tracked food costs and adjusted menu pricing accordingly to maintain profitability while offering competitive prices for customers.

Catering Onwer

Souls Bbq
07.2023 - Current
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written.
  • Worked well in a team setting, providing support and guidance.
  • Demonstrated respect, friendliness and willingness to help wherever needed.
  • Assisted with day-to-day operations, working efficiently and productively with all team members.
  • Passionate about learning and committed to continual improvement.
  • Worked flexible hours across night, weekend, and holiday shifts.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
  • Paid attention to detail while completing assignments.
  • Used critical thinking to break down problems, evaluate solutions and make decisions.
  • Strengthened communication skills through regular interactions with others.
  • Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.
  • Proved successful working within tight deadlines and a fast-paced environment.
  • Demonstrated strong organizational and time management skills while managing multiple projects.

Kitchen Staff Member

Oakland Camp Kids and Family Camp
05.2012 - 09.2012

Coordinated preparation of meals for 100-500 guests with a team of 5-6 members.

Grill Cook

Polka Dot Fast Food
05.2001 - 10.2009
  • Seasonal job. Closed in winter. Operated grill station efficiently, preparing a variety of menu items to customer specifications.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of cooking area, adhering to food safety standards.
  • Assisted in training new staff on grilling techniques and kitchen protocols.
  • Monitored cooking times and temperatures to ensure quality and consistency of food products.
  • Collaborated with team members to meet high-volume orders during peak hours.
  • Implemented portion control methods, minimizing waste while ensuring customer satisfaction.
  • Adjusted grill settings based on menu item requirements for optimal cooking results.
  • Managed grill station during busy periods, effectively handling multiple orders simultaneously while maintaining quality standards.
  • Maintained clean, organized grill stations for hygienic, orderly food preparation.
  • Cleaned and maintained kitchen equipment regularly.
  • Maintained a clean and organized workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Regularly cleaned and maintained grilling equipment to ensure peak performance at all times.
  • Adhered to strict food safety guidelines to prevent cross-contamination and ensure a safe dining experience for guests.
  • Restocked and rotated food items according to expiry dates to minimize waste.
  • Efficiently managed time by prioritizing tasks according to importance and urgency.
  • Followed recipes and kitchen procedures for consistent food quality, presentation and standards.
  • Effectively communicated with fellow team members to coordinate dish preparation during peak service hours.
  • Stored and handled goods correctly to maintain freshness and condition.
  • Provided excellent customer service by addressing any concerns or special requests promptly and professionally.
  • Collaborated with fellow cooks to streamline kitchen processes for increased efficiency.
  • Cooked regular menu items and seasonal offerings according to corporate standards and guidelines.
  • Trained new staff members on grill station operations, resulting in improved overall performance of the team.
  • Established and maintained productive staff relationships for positive working environments.
  • Provided support to crew members, facilitating quick food preparation and delivery.
  • Verified order accuracy and quality ahead of service to maintain standards.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently preparing high-quality dishes in a timely manner.
  • Closely followed recipes and presentation guidelines to maintain consistency across menu items.
  • Reduced food waste by implementing proper portion control and efficient cooking techniques.
  • Prepared food items such as meats, poultry, and fish for frying purposes.
  • Ensured proper cooking temperatures were maintained for various proteins, resulting in consistent dish quality and reduced risk of foodborne illness.
  • Worked closely with front-of-house staff to address any order modifications or dietary restrictions efficiently and accurately.
  • Provided support to crew members through all facets of food preparation and delivery.
  • Consistently met or exceeded performance goals by dedicating time and effort to honing skills and staying current with industry trends.
  • Distributed food to team members with efficiency in high-volume environment.
  • Developed daily specials using fresh, seasonal ingredients to provide variety for customers.
  • Participated in regular staff meetings, providing valuable insights into improving kitchen productivity and customer satisfaction.

Cafeteria Worker

France’s Elementary
10.2001 - 05.2003
  • Prepared and served nutritious meals in compliance with health and safety standards.
  • Assisted in maintaining cleanliness and organization of kitchen and dining areas.
  • Operated kitchen equipment efficiently to ensure timely meal preparation.
  • Collaborated with team members to enhance service delivery during busy periods.
  • Monitored food inventory levels, notifying management of shortages or excesses.
  • Provided friendly customer service, addressing inquiries and dietary needs promptly.
  • Supported training of new staff on food handling procedures and equipment use.
  • Implemented waste reduction strategies to optimize resource usage in the cafeteria.
  • Cleaned and sanitized surfaces, tools, and equipment.
  • Restocked condiments, beverages, and utensils per expected use levels.
  • Prepared ingredients and recipe components ahead of time.
  • Enhanced food quality by maintaining high standards of cleanliness and sanitation in food preparation areas.
  • Received and stored incoming supplies according to procedures.
  • Cooked food per recipe requirements in large batches for routine school breakfasts, lunches, and special events.
  • Streamlined cafeteria operations by organizing supplies, stocking shelves, and maintaining clean workspaces.
  • Followed all proper handling procedures for prepared foods, ingredients, and leftovers.
  • Served as a reliable team member during flexible scheduling demands, consistently arriving on time for all assigned shifts ready to contribute positively to the day''s work activities.
  • Served food according to temperature, safety, and presentation guidelines.
  • Assisted in training new staff members, sharing best practices for success in the role of Cafeteria Worker.
  • Provided exemplary service to students, staff, and visitors.

Retail Worker

Old Navy Outlet
07.2000 - 04.2001
  • Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries to enhance shopping experience.
  • Maintained store organization and cleanliness to support operational efficiency.
  • Operated point-of-sale systems for accurate transaction processing.
  • Collaborated with team members to achieve daily sales goals and improve service standards.
  • Restocked merchandise on sales floor, ensuring optimal inventory levels for customer accessibility.
  • Participated in visual merchandising efforts to create appealing product displays.
  • Greeted customers, helped locate merchandise, and suggested suitable options.
  • Replenished sales floor merchandise and organized shelves, racks, and bins for optimal appearance.
  • Demonstrated strong communication skills when collaborating with fellow employees or assisting customers with inquiries or concerns.
  • Maintained a clean and organized sales floor, enhancing the overall shopping experience for customers.
  • Helped customers complete purchases, locate items, and join reward programs.
  • Checked pricing, scanned items, applied discounts, and printed receipts to ring up customers.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing personalized assistance and product recommendations.
  • Handled cash transactions accurately and efficiently while adhering to company loss prevention guidelines.
  • Delivered exceptional customer service with a friendly demeanor, resulting in increased repeat business.
  • Contributed to visual merchandising efforts by creating eye-catching displays that showcased products effectively.

Customer Service

Safeway
06.1998 - 08.1999
  • Streamlined order processing for faster customer service and improved satisfaction rates.
  • Streamlined order processing for faster customer service and increased satisfaction.
  • Provided exceptional customer service, addressing passenger concerns professionally and courteously.
  • Trained staff on new product features, ensuring knowledgeable customer service.
  • Provided exceptional customer service, resulting in numerous positive feedback from clients.
  • Provided exceptional customer service by addressing client inquiries promptly.
  • Resolved customer complaints promptly, demonstrating commitment to excellent customer service.

Housekeeper

Gold Pan Motel
03.1996 - 11.1997
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization in guest rooms, ensuring high standards of hygiene.
  • Assisted with laundry processes, including washing, drying, and folding linens.
  • Conducted regular inspections of common areas for cleanliness and safety compliance.
  • Responded promptly to guest requests for additional amenities or services.
  • Implemented best practices for waste disposal and recycling initiatives within the motel.
  • Enhanced guest satisfaction by addressing concerns swiftly and professionally.
  • Disinfected and mopped bathrooms to keep facilities sanitary and clean.
  • Cleaned and stocked guest rooms by replacing used towels and linens vacuuming floors, making beds, and restocking bathroom items.
  • Collaborated with other housekeeping staff to complete tasks efficiently and effectively.
  • Vacuumed rugs and carpeted areas in offices, lobbies, and corridors.
  • Maintained a spotless environment for guests through diligent daily housekeeping tasks.
  • Maintained clean and comfortable environments in commercial buildings by vacuuming, cleaning windows, and dusting.
  • Hand-dusted and wiped down office furniture, fixtures, and window sills to keep areas clean and comfortable.
  • Upheld high standards of sanitation in common areas, contributing to an inviting atmosphere for guests.
  • Disposed of trash and recyclables each day to avoid waste buildup.
  • Removed bed sheets and towels from rooms and pre-treated stains to maintain and restore linen condition.
  • Enhanced guest satisfaction by ensuring thorough cleaning and timely room turnovers.
  • Slid beds, sofas, and other furniture aside to wipe down baseboards and remove dust and dirt from hard-to-reach areas.
  • Ensured all rooms met hotel cleanliness standards by conducting regular inspections and addressing any issues promptly.
  • Dusted picture frames and wall hangings with cloth.
  • Adhered to professional house cleaning checklist.
  • Engaged with guests on room requirements and amenities to promote overall satisfaction.
  • Increased room availability by managing time wisely and completing tasks within designated deadlines.
  • Verified cleanliness and organization of storage areas and carts.
  • Streamlined laundry processes, resulting in faster turnaround times for guest linens and towels.

Cashier

Town Hall Theatre
04.1996 - 06.1997
  • Processed customer transactions efficiently using point-of-sale systems.
  • Maintained cleanliness and organization of cashier area to enhance customer experience.
  • Assisted customers with inquiries, providing accurate information about services and events.
  • Handled cash management tasks, including balancing registers at end of shifts.
  • Resolved customer issues promptly, fostering positive relationships and repeat business.
  • Greeted customers entering store and responded promptly to customer needs.
  • Welcomed customers and helped determine their needs.
  • Worked flexible schedule and extra shifts to meet business needs.
  • Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
  • Built relationships with customers to encourage repeat business.
  • Maintained a balanced cash drawer, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
  • Restocked and organized merchandise in front lanes.
  • Assisted customers with returns, refunds and resolving transaction issues.
  • Counted money in cash drawers at beginning and end of shifts to maintain accuracy.
  • Stocked, tagged and displayed merchandise as required.
  • Assisted customers with inquiries and provided exceptional service, resulting in positive feedback from shoppers.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing efficient and accurate cash transactions.

Dish Washer / Bus Person

Morning Thunder Cafe
05.1994 - 10.1996
  • Operated commercial dishwashing equipment efficiently to maintain cleanliness and sanitation standards.
  • Sorted and organized dishes, utensils, and kitchenware for streamlined workflow during peak hours.
  • Assisted kitchen staff by providing clean supplies quickly to support food preparation and service.
  • Maintained cleanliness of work area, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
  • Adapted quickly to changing priorities in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality standards.
  • Implemented improvements in dishwashing processes that enhanced overall efficiency and reduced downtime.
  • Kept kitchen areas neat and clean by removing trash and organizing supplies.
  • Kept work area clean, dry, and free of debris to prevent incidents and accidents.
  • Followed supervisor instructions to complete tasks on time.
  • Kept dishes, utensils and glassware clean and rotated following safety standards set by restaurant.
  • Completed extra cleaning work on garbage cans, racks, dry storage areas, and other fixtures to keep kitchen spotless.
  • Completed additional cleaning tasks within the kitchen area, contributing to an overall sanitary work environment.
  • Assisted with kitchen prep work to help operations run smoothly and meet customer needs.
  • Cleared, washed and stacked all plates, dining utensils, and trays quickly and without breaking.
  • Scraped, washed and efficiently restacked dishware, utensils, and glassware to keep kitchen ready for customer demands.

Education

High School Diploma - General Studies

Quincy Jr Sr High School
Quincy, CA
06.1998

Skills

  • Meal preparation
  • Food storage
  • Verbal and written communication
  • Food preparation
  • Kitchen equipment operation and maintenance
  • Cost control
  • Food safety
  • Cleaning and sanitation
  • Garnishing techniques
  • Food spoilage prevention
  • Restaurant operations
  • Training and mentoring
  • Food plating and presentation
  • Recipes and menu planning
  • Staff management
  • Waste reduction
  • Baking and pastry
  • Nutrition
  • Knife skills
  • Performance improvement
  • Sanitation standards
  • Inventory oversight
  • Inventory replenishment
  • Kitchen management
  • Kitchen staff management
  • Meal scheduling
  • Plating techniques
  • Food presentation
  • Recipe creation
  • Order delivery practices
  • Food delivery
  • Cooking
  • Special events
  • Sauce making
  • Menu development
  • Staff training
  • Grilling techniques
  • Operations management
  • Inventory control
  • Menu planning
  • Allergen management
  • Food allergy safety
  • Kitchen workflow management
  • Kitchen sanitation management
  • Safety and health guidelines
  • Culinary techniques
  • Budgeting and cost control
  • Dish preparation
  • Food safety procedures
  • Menu pricing
  • Kitchen operations management
  • Team leadership
  • Quality control
  • Food prep planning
  • Coaching and mentoring
  • Team collaboration
  • Safe food handling
  • Creative thinking
  • Relationship building
  • Food preparing, plating, and presentation
  • Attention to detail
  • Food inventories
  • Workflow optimization
  • Forecasting and planning
  • Inventory management
  • Food handler certification
  • Staff supervision and coordination
  • Delegating work
  • Equipment inspection and maintenance
  • Prioritization and organization
  • Purchasing management
  • Pantry restocking
  • Food handlers card
  • Kitchen equipment operation
  • Team Training
  • Purchasing
  • Supply management
  • Problem and complaint resolution
  • Batch cooking
  • Supply estimates
  • Staff recruiting and hiring
  • Quality assurance
  • Supply ordering
  • Coordinating kitchen staff
  • Sanitation guidelines
  • Banquets and catering
  • Food and beverage service
  • Staff performance assessments
  • Project management
  • Signature dish creation
  • Food production
  • Catering and events
  • Portion and cost control

Timeline

Catering Onwer

Souls Bbq
07.2023 - Current

Kitchen Staff Member

Oakland Camp Kids and Family Camp
05.2012 - 09.2012

Cafeteria Worker

France’s Elementary
10.2001 - 05.2003

Grill Cook

Polka Dot Fast Food
05.2001 - 10.2009

Retail Worker

Old Navy Outlet
07.2000 - 04.2001

Customer Service

Safeway
06.1998 - 08.1999

Cashier

Town Hall Theatre
04.1996 - 06.1997

Housekeeper

Gold Pan Motel
03.1996 - 11.1997

Dish Washer / Bus Person

Morning Thunder Cafe
05.1994 - 10.1996

Head Cook

Plumas Senior Nutrition

High School Diploma - General Studies

Quincy Jr Sr High School
Donnika Hamilton