Karen Hemsted
Lone Tree,IA
Summary
Proven track record in enhancing operational efficiency and customer satisfaction at Mercy Hospital through meticulous attention to detail and exceptional time management. Leveraged problem-solving skills to reduce food waste significantly, while delivering high-quality customer service. Expert in streamlining food preparation processes, contributing to a noticeable increase in monthly revenue.
Overview
39
39
years of professional experience
Work History
Custodian I
Catlet Dorm University of Iowa
Iowa City, IA
12.2019 - Current
- Performs routine maintenance activities.
- Emptied trash cans and recycling bins to keep building clean and free of germs.
- Maintained clean and comfortable environments in dorm buildings by vacuuming, mopping, cleaning windows, and dusting.
- Kept building spaces premises clean inside and outside.
- Maintained a well-organized supply closet for easy access to necessary tools.
- Follows procedures for the use of chemical cleaners and power machinery to prevent damage to floors and fixtures.
- Mixes cleaning solutions and chemicals in containers in preparation for cleaning according to instructions.
Lead/Food and Nutrition Assistant
Iowa City Community School District
Iowa City, IA
12.2017 - 12.2019
- Reduced food waste by closely monitoring inventory levels and implementing proper storage techniques.
- Contributed to team success by providing cross-training support for colleagues in various Food and Nutrition Assistant tasks as needed.
- Elevated student satisfaction rates through focused attention on special requests, allergies, and dietary restrictions when preparing meals.
- Ensured timely service through efficient preparation of meals while adhering to strict schedules.
- Operated cash register for cash and check, and transactions with excellent accuracy levels.
- Maintained a balanced cash drawer, ensuring accurate accounting at the end of each shift.
Dietary/Cafeteria Float
Mercy Hospital
Iowa City, IA
04.1986 - 09.2017
- Streamlined food preparation processes through effective communication between front-of-house staff and kitchen personnel during peak hours of operation.
- Assisted in inventory management, reducing food waste and maintaining adequate stock levels for uninterrupted service.
- Ensured adherence to sanitation guidelines through routine cleaning tasks such as dishwashing, sweeping floors, and wiping countertops.
- Supported cost reduction initiatives by monitoring portion sizes while maintaining consistent presentation standards across all dishes served.
- Prepared fresh and appetizing meals daily, ensuring high-quality food offerings for patrons.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by providing efficient and friendly service in the cafeteria.
- Maintained a clean and organized cafeteria environment for improved customer experience.
- Trained new hires on proper food handling techniques to ensure compliance with health and safety regulations.
- Collaborated with other team members in setting up catering events successfully, leading to increased referrals from satisfied clients.
- Managed cash register transactions accurately, ensuring timely and correct payment processing.
- Collaborated with kitchen staff to streamline meal preparation and minimize wait times for customers.
- Addressed customer concerns quickly, resolving issues effectively to maintain overall satisfaction levels.
- Assisted with menu planning, incorporating seasonal ingredients and customer preferences to create diverse and appealing offerings.
- Promoted a positive work culture by fostering teamwork among colleagues, leading to higher employee morale and productivity.
- Ensured food quality by conducting regular checks of ingredients'' freshness, preventing potential health hazards or dissatisfied customers.
- Contributed to an increase in monthly revenue by upselling menu items and promoting daily specials to customers.
- Cleaned and sanitized surfaces, tools and equipment.
- Followed all proper handling procedures for prepared foods, ingredients and leftovers.
- Cooked food per recipe requirements in large batches for routine school breakfasts, lunches and special events.
- Collected trash, wiped up spills, and removed trays to maintain fresh and clean customer areas.
- Restocked condiments, beverages and utensils per expected use levels.
- Prepared ingredients and recipe components ahead of time.
- Served food according to temperature, safety and presentation guidelines.
- Tracked meal purchases and accepted payments at cash register.
- Provided exemplary service to patients, staff, and visitors.
- Kept kitchen, counter and dining areas cleaned and sanitized.
Education
High School Diploma -
Lone Tree Community School
Lone Tree, IA05.1983
Skills
- Time Management
- Attention to Detail
- Problem-Solving
- Customer Service
Timeline
Custodian I
Catlet Dorm University of Iowa
12.2019 - Current
Lead/Food and Nutrition Assistant
Iowa City Community School District
12.2017 - 12.2019
Dietary/Cafeteria Float
Mercy Hospital
04.1986 - 09.2017
High School Diploma -
Lone Tree Community School