Maricela Medina
Niles,IL
Summary
Dynamic food service professional with a proven track record at Portillo's Restaurants Group, excelling in outstanding customer service and efficient kitchen operations. Skilled in optimizing workflows and training staff, I consistently enhanced customer satisfaction and reduced preparation time, demonstrating strong multitasking abilities and a commitment to quality.
Dependable Cook with expertise preparing foods in fast-paced settings. Team-minded professional knowledgeable in food safety, attractive presentation, and stock management. Efficient multitasker with talents in recipe management and development.
Equipped with strong problem-solving abilities, willingness to learn, and excellent communication skills. Poised to contribute to team success and achieve positive results. Ready to tackle new challenges and advance organizational objectives with dedication and enthusiasm.
Demonstrates strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills, with proven ability to quickly adapt to new environments. Eager to contribute to team success and further develop professional skills. Brings positive attitude and commitment to continuous learning and growth.
Overview
22
22
years of professional experience
Work History
Costumer Service, Cook Preparation.
Portillos Restaurants Group
Illinois City, IL
11.2004 - Current
- Oversaw kitchen staff to optimize food preparation efficiency and enforce safety standards.
- Developed new menu items based on seasonal ingredients and customer feedback.
- Implemented streamlined cooking processes, reducing preparation time while maintaining quality.
- Trained and mentored junior cooks in culinary techniques and kitchen operations.
- Collaborated with management to optimize kitchen workflow and improve service speed.
- Resolved customer complaints regarding food quality or service promptly and professionally.
- Maintained clean and organized work areas at all times to bring safety and quality to food preparation process.
- Prepared meals efficiently under time constraints for timely service during peak hours.
- Demonstrated strong multitasking skills, managing multiple orders simultaneously without sacrificing quality or presentation.
- Prepared food items in compliance with recipes and portioning control guidelines.
- Managed time by organizing and prioritizing kitchen duties to prepare and serve food quickly.
- Prepared multiple orders simultaneously during peak periods with high accuracy rate, maximizing customer satisfaction, and repeat business.
- 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.
- Took food orders from cashiers and cooked items quickly to complete order items together and serve hot.
- Reduced food waste significantly by implementing proper portion control and storage techniques.
- Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
- Instructed new staff in proper food preparation, storage, use of kitchen equipment and sanitation.
- Supported kitchen staff training and development, leading to increased productivity and efficiency.
Bakary, Caterine Order Taker
Portillo's Restaurant Group
Illinois City, IL
11.2004 - Current
- Processed customer orders efficiently, ensuring accuracy and timely service delivery.
- Collaborated with team members to optimize workflow and improve order fulfillment rates.
- Maintained knowledge of menu items to provide accurate recommendations and upselling opportunities.
- Optimized transaction management, inventory tracking, and report generation using point-of-sale systems.
- Trained new staff on order-taking procedures, enhancing team performance and customer satisfaction.
- Implemented feedback mechanisms to identify areas for service improvement and enhance customer experience.
- Resolved customer inquiries and complaints promptly, fostering positive relationships and repeat business.
- Effectively communicated with customers to clarify order details and ensure the highest level of satisfaction during their ordering experience.
- Accurately performed cash register operations to process and receive payments and issue change.
- Demonstrated excellent multitasking skills under pressure; managed multiple telephone lines while efficiently processing orders.
- Quickly and carefully checked prepared items against customer orders for accuracy prior to delivery.
- Double-checked customer orders and information before filling out order forms to prevent unnecessary delays and errors.
- Informed supervisors and coworkers of inventory needs and double-checked supplies before completing customer orders.
Food Service Worker
Lutheran General Hospital
Illinois City, IL
08.2023 - 11.2025
- Operated kitchen equipment to prepare and serve meals efficiently.
- Maintained cleanliness and sanitation standards in food preparation areas.
- Assisted in inventory management by tracking supplies and restocking items.
- Collaborated with dietary staff to ensure accurate meal delivery for patients.
- Developed training materials for onboarding programs focused on dietary regulations and best practices.
- Implemented process improvements to enhance workflow efficiency in service operations.
- Trained new staff on safety protocols and food handling procedures.
- Demonstrated versatility by quickly adapting to various roles within the food service environment as needed.
Education
GED -
Oakton Community Collage
Illinois City, IL11.2026
Skills
- Outstanding customer service
- Customer service and satisfaction
- Fast food customer service
- Window customer service
Timeline
Food Service Worker
Lutheran General Hospital
08.2023 - 11.2025
Costumer Service, Cook Preparation.
Portillos Restaurants Group
11.2004 - Current
Bakary, Caterine Order Taker
Portillo's Restaurant Group
11.2004 - Current
GED -
Oakton Community Collage