Jennifer Swartz
Douglassville Camden,PA
Summary
Dynamic culinary leader with extensive experience at OJR High School, excelling in food safety and quality management. Proven decision-making skills led to reduced food waste and enhanced customer satisfaction. Certified in Serv Safe, I fostered a collaborative kitchen environment, mentoring staff while maintaining high standards of cleanliness and efficiency.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Head Cook
OJR Highschool
Pottstown, PA
08.2021 - 05.2025
- Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
- 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.
- Adhered to strict dietary restrictions when creating customized meal options for guests with allergies or preferences.
- Mentored junior cooks, providing guidance on culinary techniques and fostering professional growth within the team.
- Reduced food waste by implementing inventory management systems and optimizing ingredient usage.
- Developed new menu items for increased customer satisfaction and repeat business.
- 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.
- Created visually appealing plate presentations to enhance the overall dining experience for guests.
- Successfully managed special events catering, coordinating with clients to develop custom menus tailored to specific needs.
- Fostered collaborative kitchen environment, encouraging creativity and input from all staff members on menu development.
- Boosted team morale and reduced turnover, conducting regular training sessions on culinary techniques and kitchen safety.
- Conducted inventory management to minimize waste, ensuring optimal stock levels were maintained for all kitchen essentials.
- Streamlined kitchen operations, leading to smoother service during peak hours by implementing efficient prep schedules.
- Maintained high standards of food safety and cleanliness, surpassing local health inspections.
- Developed waste reduction program that minimized food spoilage and cut down on unnecessary expenses.
- Evaluated employee performance regularly, providing constructive feedback for improvement.
- Trained and mentored new staff members in kitchen safety, sanitation and cooking techniques.
Direct Support Professional
Step By Step, Inc.
Clifton Heights, PA
09.2019 - 09.2021
- Maintained clean, safe, and well-organized patient environment.
- Documented progress notes thoroughly to track client achievements, concerns, or changes in behavior patterns that may need attention from the interdisciplinary team.
- Assisted clients with daily living needs to maintain self-esteem and general wellness.
- Assisted with crisis intervention to de-escalate challenging behavior and maintain peaceful encounters.
- Enhanced quality of life for individuals with disabilities by providing compassionate and consistent direct support.
- Supported clients with personal care tasks, ensuring their dignity and privacy were maintained at all times.
Assistant Manager
Turkey Hill
Stowe PA
09.2015 - 09.2019
- Supervised day-to-day operations to meet performance, quality and service expectations.
- Maintained a clean, safe, and organized store environment to enhance the customer experience.
- Developed strong working relationships with staff, fostering a positive work environment.
- Monitored cash intake and deposit records, increasing accuracy, and reducing discrepancies.
- Oversaw daily cash reconciliations, ensuring accurate financial reporting and minimizing discrepancies.
- Improved customer satisfaction by addressing and resolving complaints promptly.
Key Holder Supervisor
Turkey Hill Minit Markets
Dunmore, PA
08.1999 - 08.2012
- Completed store opening and closing procedures.
- Counted out cash drawers and balanced totals.
- Updated store displays frequently to maintain freshness in presentation while highlighting key products or trends effectively.
- Improved customer service by projecting friendly and knowledgeable attitude.
- Handled escalated customer issues calmly and professionally while working towards mutually beneficial resolutions in alignment with company values.
- Managed daily store operations, including opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and staff scheduling.
- Received and counted money.
- Trained new employees on company policies, procedures, and best practices to ensure consistent performance across the team.
- Addressed customer concerns promptly and professionally, leading to improved customer experiences and stronger relationships.
- Offered hands-on assistance to customers, assessing needs, and maintaining current knowledge of consumer preferences.
- Processed cash, credit, debit, and check payments.
- Maintained a clean, organized store environment that was conducive to an enjoyable shopping experience for customers.
- Oversaw employee performance, corrected problems, and increased efficiency to maintain productivity targets.
- Rotated stock according to dates and protocols.
- Loaded and unloaded merchandise from trucks to organize warehouse and backroom spaces.
Education
Associate In Physical Therapy - Physical Therapy
Keystone College
La Plume, PA05.2003
Skills
- Decision-making
- Clear communication
- Serv Safe certification
Certification
Serv Safe
Timeline
Head Cook
OJR Highschool
08.2021 - 05.2025
Direct Support Professional
Step By Step, Inc.
09.2019 - 09.2021
Assistant Manager
Turkey Hill
09.2015 - 09.2019
Key Holder Supervisor
Turkey Hill Minit Markets
08.1999 - 08.2012
Associate In Physical Therapy - Physical Therapy
Keystone College