Love to see the faces of the children and staff when they come through the line and get their yummy food! And enteracting with children and staff!
Jeanette Cade-Porter
Council Bluffs,IA
Summary
Dynamic culinary professional with extensive experience at OPAA Food Management Inc., excelling in food safety and preparation. Proven ability to enhance kitchen efficiency and customer satisfaction through effective teamwork and innovative menu planning. Recognized for reducing food waste and maintaining high hygiene standards while delivering exceptional service in high-volume environments.
Overview
19
19
years of professional experience
Work History
Elementary School Kitchen Worker/dishroom Worker
OPAA Food Management Inc.
04.2021 - 01.2025
- Maintained clean, trash-free workspaces to maximize productivity and safety.
- Sanitized dining ware and kitchen equipment according to health code standards.
- Made food according to standard recipes with requested changes for customer satisfaction.
- Learned other teammates' work tasks to train as backup.
- Cleaned and sanitized dishes and utensils, consistently keeping adequate supplies on hand for expected customer loads.
- Restocked supplies and prepared additional ingredients during downtime for expected busy periods.
- Followed proper handling and sanitation procedures to comply with food safety standards and protocols.
- Prevented food spoilage by monitoring dates, rotating stock, and following proper storage procedures.
- Decreased food expenses by using local ingredients, defining standards for portion size and reducing waste.
- Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining food preparation processes and optimizing workspace organization.
- Delivered consistent meal quality by following standardized recipes and portion control protocols.
- Collaborated with the head chef to develop new menu items, incorporating seasonal ingredients and customer feedback.
- Participated in regular team meetings to discuss menu updates, operational improvements, and workplace safety concerns.
- Improved customer satisfaction by addressing dietary restrictions and special requests in a timely manner.
- Managed ordering supplies and tracking inventory levels to maintain optimal stock levels without compromising freshness or variety of ingredients.
- Assisted in training new kitchen staff members, ensuring they were familiar with equipment usage and safety procedures.
- Prepared entrees, salads, and appetizers for over Number daily customers.
- Demonstrated versatility in culinary skills, assisting in various stations such as grill, fryer, or sauté as needed.
- Expedited orders efficiently during high volume shifts, ensuring prompt delivery of dishes without sacrificing quality or presentation standards.
- Increased knowledge of food allergies and dietary requirements, enabling better accommodation for guest needs.
- Complied with all federal, state, and local regulations governing safe food handling practices within the kitchen environment.
- Reduced food waste by implementing proper storage techniques and closely monitoring inventory levels.
- Contributed to positive workplace culture by maintaining a professional demeanor under pressure while fostering teamwork among colleagues.
- Assisted in menu planning and development, incorporating diverse flavors and techniques to create innovative and appealing dishes for customers.
- Delegated tasks among kitchen team members efficiently, ensuring smooth workflow during high-volume periods.
- Ensured timely delivery of dishes by coordinating efforts between cooking stations during busy service times.
- Followed recipes and chef instructions to prepare food correctly.
- Chopped vegetables, cut up fruit, and prepared sauces when kitchen staff was busy.
- Unloaded food deliveries and stored items in proper locations for easy access.
- Labeled and stored all food items correctly and checked expiration dates routinely.
- Transported food items from storage areas to kitchen for prepping.
- Operated kitchen equipment in accordance with manufacturer instructions.
- Managed time to juggle multiple tasks simultaneously with ease.
- Plated and presented food following chef requirements.
- Cleaned and maintained work areas, equipment and utensils.
- Followed food safety practices and sanitation guidelines.
- Washed, peeled and cut various foods such as fruits and vegetables to prepare for cooking or serving.
- Maintained composure and work quality while under stress.
- Stocked and rotated food items according to expiration dates.
- Reduced kitchen accidents by maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organization.
- Sanitized pots, pans, utensils, kitchen appliances and equipment using company-approved cleaning supplies.
- Maintained high personal grooming standards and uniform presentation.
- Lifted and carried heavy materials.
- Loaded dishes, glasses and tableware into dishwashing machines.
- Assisted in setting up and breaking down kitchen stations.
- Monitored food temperature, discarding items not stored correctly.
- Prepared sandwiches, salads and other specialty items according to customer specifications.
- Trained new staff on food preparation and safety procedures.
- Operated food slicers, grinders and chopper in accordance with safety guidelines.
- Pushed, pulled and transported large loads and objects.
- Followed instructions and procedures to complete assigned tasks.
- Worked fast to complete tasks and meet daily deadlines.
- Maintained work areas by cleaning and straightening for maximum productivity and safety.
- Cleaned and straightened work areas to maximize productivity and safety.
- Loaded, unloaded, and moved material to and from storage and production areas.
- Consistently met deadlines under pressure while maintaining high-quality work output in a fast-paced environment.
- Improved team morale and productivity through effective communication and active listening skills.
- Established strong working relationships with clients through excellent communication skills, fostering long-term partnerships built on trust.
- Reported defective products or machinery to supervisor.
- Maintained overall safe work environment with employee training programs and enforcement of safety procedures.
- Optimized customer experience by delivering superior services and effectively troubleshooting issues.
- Maintained database systems to track and analyze operational data.
- Developed effective improvement plans in alignment with goals and specifications.
- Cultivated positive relationships with vendors to deliver timely and cost-effective supply of services and materials.
- Devised and implemented processes and procedures to streamline operations.
- Observed packing operations to verify conformance to specifications.
- Evaluated customer needs and feedback to drive product and service improvements.
- Frequently inspected production area to verify proper equipment operation.
- Helped meet changing demands by recommending improvements to business systems or procedures.
- Maintained effective supply levels by monitoring and reordering food stock and dry goods.
Dietary Aide/cook/dishwasher/cashier and Server
Community Hospital-Fairfax
01.2010 - 03.2021
- Assisted dietitians in monitoring patient progress, adjusting meal plans as needed based on feedback from healthcare providers.
- Assisted in menu planning to cater to diverse patient dietary restrictions, ensuring balanced nutrition.
- Improved patient satisfaction by providing high-quality meals tailored to their dietary needs and preferences.
- Reduced food waste through careful portioning, inventory management, and creative use of leftover ingredients.
- Maintained strict adherence to HIPAA regulations when handling patient information, protecting confidentiality at all times.
- Prepared special dietary meals to meet individual patient needs, promoting better health outcomes.
- Engaged with patients to receive direct feedback on meals, using insights to improve meal plans.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to develop individualized meal plans based on patient needs, resulting in better health outcomes.
- Enhanced team morale by fostering collaborative work environment, leading to improved productivity.
- Provided exceptional customer service to patients and their families, addressing concerns and answering questions about dietary guidelines and restrictions.
- Improved patient nutrition with carefully planned and prepared meals according to dietary needs.
- Organized kitchen workflows, enabling team to prepare meals more efficiently.
- Maintained accurate records of patient meal orders to ensure appropriate distribution of meals according to individual requirements.
- Verified prepared food met standards for quality and quantity before serving to customers.
- Maintained effective supply levels by monitoring and reordering food stock and dry goods.
- Processed customer payments and balanced cash drawers.
- Portioned and wrapped food to place directly on plates for service to patrons.
- Kept register accurate through correct billing, payment processing, and cash management practices.
- Utilized POS system to receive and process food and beverage orders.
- Cross-trained in other kitchen positions to support staff and meet customer needs and demands.
- Adjusted food preparation methods in accordance with customer requests.
- Leveraged hand-held trays and buffet carts to serve food and beverage items to guests.
- Cut, sliced and ground meat, poultry and seafood to prepare for cooking.
- Managed time by organizing and prioritizing kitchen duties to prepare and serve food quickly.
- Maintained clean and organized work areas at all times to bring safety and quality to food preparation process.
- Maintained a clean and sanitary workspace, ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Prepared food items in compliance with recipes and portioning control guidelines.
- Prepared meals efficiently under time constraints for timely service during peak hours.
- Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
- Reduced food waste significantly by implementing proper portion control and storage techniques.
- Communicated closely with servers to fully understand special orders for customers.
- Took food orders from cashiers and cooked items quickly to complete order items together and serve hot.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality, visually appealing dishes.
- Assisted in inventory management and ordering supplies, maintaining adequate stock levels for efficient kitchen operations.
- Tasted, smelled, and pierced food with fork to verify sufficient cooking.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills, managing multiple orders simultaneously without sacrificing quality or presentation.
- Checked for quality, kept track of old and new items and rotated stock to confirm freshness of food and ingredients.
- Changed and sanitized cutting boards, benches, and surfaces between tasks to avoid cross-contamination.
- Enhanced teamwork within the kitchen staff by fostering a collaborative environment focused on meeting high standards of quality and efficiency.
- Adhered to recipe guidelines while demonstrating creativity in plating and garnishing dishes for enhanced visual appeal.
- Improved menu offerings, incorporating seasonal ingredients and innovative cooking methods.
- Contributed to positive guest experiences by accommodating special dietary needs and requests.
- Instructed new staff in proper food preparation, storage, use of kitchen equipment and sanitation.
- Adapted quickly to menu changes and customer requests, demonstrating flexibility and problem-solving skills.
Dietary Aide/filled Lunch Orders and Served Meals/
Bethany Nursing Home
04.2008 - 09.2009
- Served meals to residents in accordance with established schedules and dietary procedures.
- Assisted in maintaining dry storage areas and handling unpacking, dating, and rotating of food and non-food supplies as directed.
- Cleared tables and removed dishes, trays, and utensils from dining room to dishwashing area.
- Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
- Followed all food safety regulations while preparing meals for patients.
- Arranged tray and or table settings with proper tableware, condiments, and tray card.
- Discarded outdated food products and maintained waste disposal procedures.
- Added food items, beverages, and utensils to trays and immediately delivered to correct rooms.
- Maintained strict levels of cleanliness for tables, floors, and prep areas.
- Kept all kitchen areas clean, tidy and free of hazards.
- Upheld efficiency of meal services by pre-setting tables before patients arrived.
- Washed plates, cups, serving, and eating utensils and kitchen equipment in commercial dishwasher.
- Ensured food safety compliance through proper storage, handling, and sanitation procedures, minimizing risk of contamination or illness.
- Participated in regular team meetings to discuss performance goals, address challenges, and share best practices for continued growth and improvement.
- Coordinated with other dietary aides and kitchen staff to ensure efficient workflow and timely delivery of meals, contributing to a smooth-running operation.
- Streamlined meal assembly processes for faster service without compromising quality or accuracy.
- Ensured timely meal delivery to patients, enhancing their dining experience and satisfaction.
- Participated in ongoing training programs to stay current on best practices in nutrition support services and foodservice operations.
- Trained new staff on dietary guidelines and kitchen procedures, elevating team competency levels.
- Collaborated with healthcare professionals to update patient diets, aligning with treatment plans.
- Supported fellow team members during peak times by assisting with tasks such as dishwashing and restocking supplies, fostering a collaborative work environment.
- Enhanced kitchen efficiency by maintaining a clean and organized workspace, ensuring timely meal production and delivery.
- Monitored food temperatures during storage and serving, ensuring safety and compliance with regulations.
- Conducted inventory checks and placed orders for kitchen supplies, ensuring uninterrupted operations.
- Adapted quickly to changes in dietary guidelines, ensuring compliance with latest health standards.
- Reduced meal preparation times by optimizing kitchen operations, without compromising food quality.
- Maintained strict hygiene standards in kitchen, significantly reducing cross-contamination risks.
- Assisted in the preparation of nutritious meals for patients with various medical conditions and dietary restrictions.
- Streamlined meal preparation processes, cutting down on waste while ensuring quality.
- Enhanced patient meal satisfaction by providing personalized meal options within dietary constraints.
- Supported kitchen in managing dietary emergencies, ensuring patient needs were met promptly and accurately.
- Cleaned and organized kitchen, dining and service areas.
- Greeted customers and answered inquiries regarding menu items and specials.
- Followed safety and sanitation policies while handling food and beverages to uphold proper health standards.
- Served and assisted diners by carrying plates of food, taking and delivering beverage orders and refilling glasses.
- Prepared tables by laying out napkins and utensils, refilling condiments and performing other preliminary tasks.
- Demonstrated knowledge of menu items and corresponding ingredients.
- Monitored food quality and freshness throughout day.
Cashier/floor
Walmart
03.2006 - 05.2007
- Verified cash drawer totals by conducting counts at shift commencement and conclusion.
- Assisted customers in recognizing their needs.
- Maintained a balanced cash drawer, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
- Operated cash register for cash, check, and credit card transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
Education
Diploma - Early Childhood Education And Care
Lewis Central High School
Council Bluffs, IA06.1989
Skills
Food safety
Food preparation
Hygiene maintenance
Safe food handling
Order accuracy
Portioning
First aid training
Temperature control
Sanitation practices
Stress tolerance
Recipe adaptation
Portion control
High volume dining
Knife handling skills
Cooking techniques mastery
Food preparation expertise
Menu planning proficiency
Allergen awareness
Food presentation talent
Dish garnishing
Workstation organization
Cross-training experience
Cleaning proficiency
Customer service
Food presentation
Positive attitude
Time management
Cooking
Dishwashing
Cleaning and sanitation
Beverage preparation
Kitchen cleaning and maintenance
Cooking techniques
Sanitation procedures
Knife skills
Stock rotation
Chopping vegetables
Surface cleaning
Verbal and written communication
Kitchen organization
Sauce preparation
Team collaboration
Punctual and reliable
Food storage
Menu planning
Ingredient preparation
Food quality standards
Workplace health and safety
Kitchen operations
Pantry restocking
Dedicated work ethic
Catering support
Safe chemical handling
Food delivery
Food safety measures
Equipment organization
Waste reduction
Continuous improvement
Trash removal
Heavy lifting
Temperature monitoring
Fire prevention and safety
Equipment cleaning
Stock management
Workflow optimization
Trash collection
Basic recordkeeping
Complex Problem-solving
Food plating and garnishment
Supply restocking
Health code compliance
Inventory oversight
Sanitation and sterilization procedures
Food portioning
Commercial dishwashers
Trash removal and recycling
Utensil sanitizing
Salad preparation
Refrigeration maintenance
Effective customer communication
Pantry organization
Waste management and recycling
Baking assistance
Grill maintenance
Hygiene standards
Cooking equipment maintenance
Plate presentation
Inspection requirements
Teamwork
Meat preparation
Teamwork and collaboration
Meat cutting
Sweeping and mopping
Nutritional knowledge
Interests
Timeline
Elementary School Kitchen Worker/dishroom Worker
OPAA Food Management Inc.
04.2021 - 01.2025
Dietary Aide/cook/dishwasher/cashier and Server
Community Hospital-Fairfax
01.2010 - 03.2021
Dietary Aide/filled Lunch Orders and Served Meals/
Bethany Nursing Home
04.2008 - 09.2009
Cashier/floor
Walmart
03.2006 - 05.2007
Diploma - Early Childhood Education And Care
Lewis Central High School