Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Timeline
Generic
Gina Cruz RIVERA

Gina Cruz RIVERA

New Britain,CT

Summary

Proven to enhance kitchen efficiency at Ice Plant Bar and Grill by streamlining dishwashing processes and elevating cleanliness standards, I bring a strong work ethic and exceptional organizational skills. My expertise in sanitation and waste reduction, combined with a commitment to providing outstanding customer service, drives continuous improvement and team success.

Overview

8
8
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Lead Dishwasher

Ice Plant Bar and Grill
09.2022 - 07.2024
  • Streamlined the workflow for the dishwashing station, increasing overall kitchen productivity.
  • Enhanced cleanliness standards with thorough sanitization of all dishware, utensils, and cooking equipment.
  • Provided training and guidance to new hires on proper dishwashing techniques, sanitation practices, and related equipment usage.
  • Ensured consistent high-quality service by inspecting dishes for cleanliness before returning them to the kitchen staff or storage area.
  • Prevented equipment malfunctions by routinely checking dishwasher performance and addressing issues promptly if necessary.
  • Assisted in expediting food orders during peak hours, ensuring timely service to customers.
  • Demonstrated initiative in regularly updating coworkers on progress or delays within the dishwashing station, facilitating efficient handoffs between shifts.
  • Ensured adherence to local health codes by properly storing cleaned items in designated areas according to established procedures.
  • Developed comprehensive knowledge of restaurant menu items to better assist teammates during meal preparation and plating processes.
  • Provided excellent customer service when interacting with guests or assisting front-of-house staff as needed.
  • Contributed to team success by cross-training as a line cook, providing support during busy periods.
  • Maintained optimal inventory levels of cleaning supplies and chemicals through regular monitoring and ordering when needed.
  • Improved kitchen efficiency by streamlining dishwashing processes and maintaining organization.
  • Assisted management in developing strategies for reducing water and energy consumption in the dishwashing area.
  • Supported fellow team members in additional kitchen tasks such as food preparation or general cleaning when required.
  • Collaborated with kitchen staff to implement a system for organizing dirty dishes, streamlining the cleaning process and improving overall efficiency.
  • Facilitated smooth kitchen operations through prompt removal and disposal of waste materials.
  • Promoted a positive work environment with strong communication skills among all staff members.
  • Increased workplace safety by consistently adhering to health and sanitation guidelines.
  • Reduced wait times for clean dishes by prioritizing tasks and managing time effectively.
  • 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.
  • Completed extra cleaning work on garbage cans, racks, dry storage areas and other fixtures to keep kitchen spotless.
  • Cleared, washed and stacked all plates, dining utensils, and trays quickly and without breaking.
  • Kept dishes, utensils and glassware clean and rotated following safety standards set by restaurant.
  • Assisted with kitchen prep work to help operations run smoothly and meet customer needs.
  • Washed equipment, surfaces, refrigerators, and other areas and applied sanitizing chemicals.
  • Scraped, washed and efficiently restacked dishware, utensils, and glassware to keep kitchen ready for customer demands.
  • Worked with chemicals such as detergent, rinse agents, and sanitizers to protect customer health.
  • Stepped into additional roles during busy times to boost coverage of important stations.
  • Adjusted water to correct temperature for optimum cleaning, rinsing and sanitizing.
  • Helped team meet expected demands by restocking work areas throughout restaurant such as server stations, salad bars, and supply cupboards.
  • Inspected dishwashing equipment and reported issues to supervisor.
  • Efficiently loaded and unloaded dishwashers, cleaning by hand large pots or Type items used often by kitchen staff.
  • Stored dishes, utensils and kitchen equipment in proper locations.
  • Sorted and rinsed dirty dishes, glasses and utensils prior to washing.
  • Washed dishes and assisted in bussing tables.
  • Delivered washed dishes to various stations throughout restaurant to help team stay productive and focused on customer needs.
  • Disinfected counters and wiped down food prep surfaces to prevent illness and cross-contamination from raw meats.
  • Boosted team efficiency by keeping kitchen areas organized, clean, and properly sanitized.
  • Monitored dishwashing machines for proper functioning.
  • Increased machine efficiency by scraping and pre-washing dishes.
  • Gently moved glassware, crystal, and other delicate items to prevent breakage.
  • Maintained proper temperatures, behaviors, and controls to meet or exceed health department standards.
  • Troubleshot equipment malfunctions and completed minor repairs to keep equipment functioning.

House Cleaner

Sassys Cleaning
04.2016 - 08.2022
  • Disinfected and mopped bathrooms to keep facilities sanitary and clean.
  • Created spotless surfaces by dusting, sweeping, vacuuming and mopping.
  • Mopped hardwood, laminate, ceramic, vinyl, glass and wood surfaces.
  • Maintained a safe working environment through proper use of cleaning products and equipment.
  • Developed strong relationships with clients through consistent high-quality service and friendly interactions.
  • Vacuumed rugs and carpeted areas in offices, lobbies, and corridors.
  • Enhanced client satisfaction by delivering thorough and efficient cleaning services tailored to individual needs.
  • Hand-dusted and wiped down office furniture, fixtures, and window sills to keep areas clean and comfortable.
  • Organized tasks efficiently, prioritizing workload according to client preferences and property requirements.
  • Demonstrated flexibility in scheduling, accommodating last-minute requests and urgent cleaning needs.
  • Dusted picture frames and wall hangings with cloth.
  • Received numerous positive reviews from clients for attention to detail and exceptional work ethic.
  • Slid beds, sofas, and other furniture aside to wipe down baseboards and remove dust and dirt from hard-to-reach areas.
  • Delivered quality customer service to address urgent needs and cleaning requests.
  • Adhered to professional house cleaning checklist.
  • Provided exceptional customer service through active listening, problem-solving abilities, and clear communication skills.
  • Reduced client complaints by consistently meeting or exceeding cleanliness standards set by homeowners.
  • Emptied trashcans and transported waste to collection areas.
  • Increased repeat business by maintaining excellent communication with clients and addressing concerns promptly.
  • Delivered customized cleaning solutions based on specific property layouts and homeowner preferences, resulting in tailored experiences that met unique needs.
  • Assisted fellow house cleaners when needed during busy periods or staff shortages.
  • Developed rapport with long-term clients, fostering loyalty and generating referrals to new customers seeking quality housecleaning services.
  • Removed bed sheets and towels from rooms and pre-treated stains to maintain and restore linen condition.
  • Consistently met or exceeded weekly productivity goals, contributing to the overall success of the company.
  • Streamlined cleaning processes for faster service, utilizing effective time management strategies.
  • Collaborated with team members to complete large-scale projects within tight deadlines, ensuring top-quality results.

Restaurant Hostess

Dennys Restaurant
04.2016 - 05.2021
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by handling telephone inquiries while attending to in-person guest needs seamlessly.
  • Handled high-pressure situations gracefully, managing multiple tasks simultaneously while maintaining a calm demeanor.
  • Answered customer questions about hours, seating, and menu information.
  • Maintained an organized waitlist for busy times, ensuring efficient seating of guests.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by greeting and seating guests promptly upon arrival.
  • Took reservations and to-go orders by phone, answered customer questions, and informed of accurate wait times.
  • Provided exceptional service through friendly interactions with customers, answering questions and addressing concerns.
  • Managed reservations effectively, accommodating special requests and ensuring accurate guest counts.
  • Contributed to a positive team atmosphere by supporting coworkers during peak hours or when understaffed.
  • Collaborated with servers to ensure smooth transitions between tables, minimizing wait times for guests.
  • Supported servers, food runners, and bussers with keeping dining area ready for every guest.
  • Checked in with servers to confirm preparedness before seating customers.
  • Resolved guest complaints professionally, taking appropriate action to address issues and improve future experiences.
  • Prepared dining room for service by cleaning , organizing tables and placing table settings.
  • Trained new hostess staff members on company policies, procedures, and best practices ensuring consistency across all shifts.
  • Assisted in maintaining a clean and inviting restaurant environment by clearing tables and setting up for the next guests.
  • Managed seating chart and monitored activity in restaurant to keep constant and efficient dining flow.
  • Actively monitored restaurant capacity levels throughout the shift, making informed seating decisions to maintain a comfortable dining atmosphere.
  • Coordinated large party bookings both on the phone and in-person, creating organized seating plans tailored to guest needs.
  • Collected information from arriving customers to seat groups or place them on waitlist.
  • Maintained guest privacy and confidentiality when handling sensitive information such as reservation details or personal preferences.
  • Monitored front entrance for new guests while assisting servers by taking and delivering drink orders.
  • Watched dining area staff to evaluate server loads and calculate accurate wait times.
  • Promoted repeat business through engaging conversations with guests, remembering preferences, and personalizing their experiences.
  • Communicated clearly with kitchen staff about guest needs and dietary restrictions, ensuring accurate orders were prepared as requested.
  • Adapted to various dining room configurations during private events or seasonal changes, maximizing available space for optimal guest flow.
  • Complied with food safety and food hygiene regulations to safeguard public health.
  • Supported restaurant promotions and events by informing guests of upcoming happenings or special menu items.
  • Streamlined table turnover process by quickly identifying available seating options for incoming diners.
  • Increased efficiency by organizing menus and updating daily specials boards before each shift.
  • Delivered unparalleled service to drive positive dining experience and repeat customer visits.
  • Reported problematic guests to management to foster safe and pleasant environment.
  • Assisted FOH and BOH staff to drive smooth service execution and maximize guest satisfaction.
  • Greeted customers warmly upon arrival and provided friendly and warm presence throughout dining experience.
  • Trained new hostesses on customer service best practices and restaurant policies to maintain high standards of service.
  • Worked with front of house staff to move tables and adjust seating to accommodate groups with special requests.
  • Answered phone calls to take orders, give information and document reservations.
  • Completed daily side work and opening and closing duties without fail.
  • Rearranged tables and chairs for large parties and retrieved high chairs for children.
  • Backed up servers by checking on tables and retrieving items for guests.
  • Organized, stocked and cleaned establishment's front lobby during shifts to maintain welcoming appearance.
  • Seated patrons based on guest preferences and seating availability.
  • Collected credit card, cash and gift certificate payments and dispensed change for cash transactions.
  • Provided patrons with estimated waiting times during peak service hours.
  • Minimized customer service complaints by expertly managing customer expectations during busy periods.
  • Promoted business loyalty by fostering positive customer relationships.
  • Helped facilitate cooperation between service and kitchen staff to professionally meet guest needs and resolve problems.
  • Assisted customers with delivering orders, carrying additional trays and helping dish out items.
  • Opened and closed seating sections according to volume of guests.
  • Delivered pick-up and curbside orders to guests.
  • Cross-trained to handle different restaurant roles, including bar, kitchen and to-go stations.
  • Took initial drink orders and relayed information to wait or bar staff.
  • Advised customers about special offerings and menu items to help drive sales.
  • Input orders accurately into POS terminal, split bills and accepted payments.
  • Maintained balanced cash drawer with correct money values and accurate documentation.

Education

High School Diploma

St Augustine Technical College
Saint Augustine, FL
04.2004

Skills

  • Punctuality
  • Efficient Dishwashing
  • Food safety knowledge
  • Workload prioritization
  • Sanitation Standards
  • Chemical Handling
  • Task Delegation
  • Waste Reduction
  • Energy conservation
  • Strong Work Ethic
  • Fast-Paced Environment
  • Cleaning and sanitizing
  • Customer service excellence
  • Troubleshooting skills
  • Machine Operation
  • Organizational strengths
  • Safety awareness
  • Dishwasher Operation
  • Interactive communication skills
  • Cleaning procedures
  • Kitchen equipment use
  • Restocking skills
  • Waste disposal
  • Stress Tolerance
  • Equipment Operation
  • Efficient nature
  • Quality Control
  • Complex Problem-Solving
  • Inventory Management
  • Supply Restocking
  • Equipment Troubleshooting
  • Chemical use
  • Performance Improvement
  • Health Code Compliance
  • Teamwork and Collaboration
  • Customer Service
  • Team Player
  • Problem-Solving
  • Time Management
  • Attention to Detail
  • Problem-solving abilities
  • Multitasking
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Reliability
  • Excellent Communication
  • Critical Thinking
  • Organizational Skills
  • Team Collaboration
  • Active Listening
  • Effective Communication
  • Adaptability and Flexibility
  • Proactive and Self-Motivated
  • Decision-Making
  • Heavy Lifting
  • Food Safety Protocols
  • Relationship Building
  • Kitchen Support
  • Receiving and Storing Supplies
  • Table Cleaning and Arranging
  • Team building
  • Work Area Maintenance
  • Food Packaging and Preparation
  • Task Prioritization
  • Kitchen Equipment Maintenance
  • Self Motivation
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Analytical Thinking
  • Goal Setting
  • Professionalism
  • Interpersonal Communication
  • Sorting and Recycling
  • Inventory Storage and Organization
  • Time management abilities
  • Continuous Improvement
  • Adaptability
  • Written Communication
  • Event Setup
  • Professional Demeanor
  • Problem-solving aptitude
  • Operation Monitoring
  • Serving Station Monitoring
  • Banquet Setup
  • Analytical Skills
  • ServSafe Food Manager
  • ServeSafe Manager

Certification

Food safety

Food handler

Languages

Spanish
Elementary

Timeline

Lead Dishwasher

Ice Plant Bar and Grill
09.2022 - 07.2024

House Cleaner

Sassys Cleaning
04.2016 - 08.2022

Restaurant Hostess

Dennys Restaurant
04.2016 - 05.2021

High School Diploma

St Augustine Technical College

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Gina Cruz RIVERA