JOE CASTILLO
Rosharon
Summary
Experienced bilingual chef and food entrepreneur with over 25 years in culinary arts, food service, and team leadership. Skilled in kitchen operations, private catering, and food trailer management. Proven ability to manage inventory, train staff, and deliver high-quality meals with attention to safety and customer satisfaction.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
Work History
Owner/Operator
MI ALMA COCINA BBQ & BAKERY FOOD TRUCK
Houston
01.2021 - Current
- Operate and manage all aspects of a food trailer and private catering business
- Develop seasonal menus and execute high-volume food service for events
- Maintain food safety compliance and manage licensing requirements
- Developed diverse menus tailored to client preferences and dietary needs.
- Coordinated logistics for events, ensuring timely food preparation and delivery.
- Supervised staff, providing training on food safety and customer service standards.
- Developed and refined menu offerings for BBQ and dessert selections.
Chef & Private Caterer
LITTLE MIRACLES MONTESSORI
Houston
03.2003 - 01.2021
- Prepared nutritious meals daily for children in a school setting
- Offered private catering services for events and families
- Trained staff and ensured sanitary meal prep and allergen management
- Created diverse menus focusing on fresh, seasonal ingredients for children and events.
Warehouse Associate/Delivery Support
SILVER EAGLE DISTRIBUTORS
Houston
07.2001 - 03.2005
- Assisted in logistics and inventory management for beverage distribution
- Maintained accurate inventory records using warehouse management systems.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure timely order fulfillment.
General Laborer/Cook Support
OFFSHORE OIL RIGS
08.2000 - 03.2001
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of work areas to ensure safety compliance.
- Cleaned tools, equipment, and work areas in order to maintain a safe and organized workspace.
- Moved heavy objects using dollies carts hoists or other manual labor techniques.
Butcher & Deli Associate
Randall’s Supermarket
Houston
01.1996 - 02.1998
- Prepared and displayed a variety of meats and deli products, ensuring freshness and appealing presentation for customers.
- Assisted customers with product selection and inquiries, enhancing their shopping experience and driving repeat business.
- Operated slicing, packaging, and weighing equipment with precision, maintaining quality control and compliance with safety standards.
Education
Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts
The Art Institute of Houston
Houston, TXStafford High School
Stafford, TXSkills
- Menu development
- Food safety compliance
- Bilingual: English, Spanish
- Client relationship building
- Inventory management
- Time management
- Staff training and supervision
- Problem solving
- Catering operations
- Food service management
- Effective communication
- Team building
- Owner/Operator
Achievements
- Won 2nd place ribs in the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo Cook Off competition
- Earned multiple 1st and 2nd place awards in competitive statewide BBQ and culinary cook-offs
Languages
- English: Fluent
- Spanish: Fluent
Timeline
Owner/Operator
MI ALMA COCINA BBQ & BAKERY FOOD TRUCK
01.2021 - Current
Chef & Private Caterer
LITTLE MIRACLES MONTESSORI
03.2003 - 01.2021
Warehouse Associate/Delivery Support
SILVER EAGLE DISTRIBUTORS
07.2001 - 03.2005
General Laborer/Cook Support
OFFSHORE OIL RIGS
08.2000 - 03.2001
Butcher & Deli Associate
Randall’s Supermarket
01.1996 - 02.1998
Associate of Applied Science - Culinary Arts
The Art Institute of Houston
Stafford High School