Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Generic

Justin Paul Balagot

Belleville,NJ

Summary

Culinary professional prepared for high-pressure kitchen environments with focus on delivering high-quality dishes. Adept at collaborating with team members to streamline kitchen operations and ensure timely service. Known for flexibility and reliability, with strong commitment to maintaining cleanliness and organization.

Overview

7
7
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Line Cook

Oceana Restaurant
10.2024 - 05.2025
  • Rotated across multiple kitchen stations including Pass, Hot Apps, and Vegetable, preparing and plating 100+ dishes per shift with consistency and quality.
  • Executed menu items efficiently in a high-volume, fast-paced environment while maintaining strict food safety and sanitation standards.
  • Coordinated with chefs and team members to prioritize orders, reduce ticket times, and ensure timely service.
  • Managed prep work, portioning, and cooking techniques to minimize waste and support overall kitchen productivity.
  • Adapted quickly to station rotations, demonstrating versatility and proficiency across diverse culinary tasks.
  • Maintained strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and plating standards to meet restaurant and health regulations.
  • Assisted in inventory control, portioning, and prep work to minimize waste and support overall kitchen productivity.

Store Associate

Lidl US
11.2023 - 04.2024
  • Delivered exceptional customer service by assisting shoppers, answering inquiries, and ensuring a positive in-store experience.
  • Operated cash registers, processed transactions accurately, and handled returns and exchanges following company policies.
  • Maintained store cleanliness, organized shelves, and ensured products were fully stocked and displayed according to merchandising standards.
  • Supported inventory management by receiving shipments, checking stock levels, and participating in regular audits.
  • Adhered to health, safety, and company compliance standards to ensure a clean and safe shopping environment.
  • Worked collaboratively with team members to achieve sales targets and maintain efficient store operations.

Shift Lead Manager

Five Guys Burger And Fries
02.2022 - 06.2022
  • Supervised daily operations and led a team of X employees to achieve performance goals, maintain service quality, and uphold brand standards.
  • Managed opening and closing procedures, cash handling, and deposit preparation with 100% accuracy.
  • Delegated tasks effectively and monitored employee productivity to ensure smooth workflow during high-volume shifts.
  • Trained and coached new team members on food preparation, safety compliance, and customer service techniques, improving team efficiency.
  • Resolved customer concerns promptly, maintaining positive guest experiences and reducing complaints.
  • Assisted in inventory control by tracking stock levels and minimizing waste, contributing to cost efficiency.

Crew Member

Five Guys Burger And Fries
06.2021 - 02.2022
  • Delivered high-quality customer service by accurately taking orders, preparing fresh food, and ensuring timely service in a fast-paced environment.
  • Maintained strict adherence to food safety and sanitation standards, ensuring a clean and organized work area.
  • Supported team during peak hours by efficiently managing multiple tasks, reducing wait times, and enhancing customer satisfaction.
  • Handled cash transactions and operated POS systems with accuracy and attention to detail.

Crew Member

Taco Bell
11.2019 - 12.2019
  • Delivered fast, friendly, and accurate service in a high-volume, team-oriented environment.
  • Prepared menu items consistently to meet company quality and food safety standards.
  • Maintained a clean, organized, and safe work environment to support operational efficiency.
  • Collaborated with team members during peak hours to ensure timely service and high customer satisfaction.

Crew Member

Cafe Pilipino
10.2018 - 02.2019
  • Serving food and assisting customers
  • Helping pack and organize orders for delivery/takeout
  • Keeping the place clean and tidy
  • Supporting the team with daily tasks

Education

Certificate - Culinary Arts

Education of Culinary Institute
New York, NY
06-2025

High School Diploma -

William L Dickinson
Jersey City, NJ
06-2019

Skills

  • Food Preparation & cooking
  • Kitchen Operations
  • Team Leadership & Collaborations
  • Inventory & Stock management
  • Costumer Service
  • Adaptability & Time Management
  • Bilingual: Filipino Tagalog and American English

Certification

  • ServSafe

Certification number: 25870068 valid until June 18, 2029

Timeline

Line Cook

Oceana Restaurant
10.2024 - 05.2025

Store Associate

Lidl US
11.2023 - 04.2024

Shift Lead Manager

Five Guys Burger And Fries
02.2022 - 06.2022

Crew Member

Five Guys Burger And Fries
06.2021 - 02.2022

Crew Member

Taco Bell
11.2019 - 12.2019

Crew Member

Cafe Pilipino
10.2018 - 02.2019

Certificate - Culinary Arts

Education of Culinary Institute

High School Diploma -

William L Dickinson