Seasoned culinary professional with a proven track record, mastering food preparation and ingredient sourcing while leading teams to excellence. Skilled in cooking techniques and customer relations. I excel in fast-paced environments, demonstrating exceptional organizational abilities and team leadership, with a commitment to quality and achieving customer satisfaction.
Overview
2025
2025
years of professional experience
Work History
Chef Assistant
Banner Elk Cafe And Lodge Espresso Bar And Eatery
Banner Elk, NC
03.2011 - 09.2024
Assisted Chef in preparing ingredients for various dishes.
Cleaned and organized kitchen equipment, appliances, and utensils.
Maintained cleanliness of work areas throughout shift.
Stocked food items and supplies as needed.
Prepared salads, sandwiches, appetizers, and other menu items as instructed by Chef.
Followed recipes to prepare sauces, soups, entrees, desserts, and other food items.
Monitored temperatures of ovens and grills to ensure proper cooking times were observed.
Organized walk-in coolers and freezers according to FIFO principles.
Checked freshness of food products prior to use.
Sliced meats and cheeses for plating or buffet service.
Measured ingredients accurately for recipe preparation.
Rotated stock on shelves to maintain product freshness.
Ensured all safety protocols were followed during meal prep.
Communicated with wait staff regarding special orders or dietary restrictions.
Transported cooked foods from kitchen area to dining area promptly.
Responded quickly to requests from customers or colleagues.
Displayed a positive attitude while working under pressure in a busy environment.
Prepared and cooked food under head chef's direction, following recipes and cooking instructions.
Cleaned and sanitized food preparation areas, complying with hygiene codes and health and safety standards.
Monitored food expiration dates and removed rotated items to prevent foodborne illnesses.
Sliced fruit and vegetables for various menu items and stored for later use in crisper.
Stocked food stations before shifts with items and equipment needed for recipes.
Organized prep list and coordinated efficient work to be ready for fast-paced banquet cooking operations.
Checked raw and cooked food to identify potential problems with quality and food safety.
Observed culinary trends and innovations to bring new ideas to team.
Food Prep Cook
Bayou Smokehouse & Grill
Banner Elk, NC
11.2018 - 08.2023
Prepared fresh ingredients for use in cooking, such as chopping vegetables and grinding meats.
Ensured that all foods were stored properly and safely, at the right temperature.
Maintained a clean kitchen environment by sweeping floors, washing dishes, utensils, and equipment.
Adhered to health codes while preparing food items in accordance with safety guidelines.
Checked quality of ingredients before starting work to ensure freshness of products used in meal preparation.
Cleaned kitchen equipment after each use and followed sanitation procedures.
Followed chef prep lists and last-minute orders to help team meet customer needs.
General Manager of Operations
Highlander's Grill & Tavern
Banner Elk, NC
05.2020 - 09.2022
Created and managed annual operating budget for the department.
Oversaw daily operations of multiple departments, ensuring compliance with established protocols.
Provided strategic direction to staff members in order to maximize productivity.
Established quality assurance processes to ensure customer satisfaction.
Managed training programs for new employees, including orientation and onboarding activities.
Monitored inventory levels, placing orders as necessary to maintain adequate supplies.
Recruited, hired, and trained new staff members according to organizational standards.
Resolved escalated customer service issues in a timely manner.
Head Chef
Rascals Bar And Grill
Beech Mountain, NC
Developed menus and recipes for a variety of dishes, including appetizers, entrees, desserts, and specialty items.
Organized kitchen staff to ensure efficient operations during peak service hours.
Trained new kitchen staff in food safety regulations and proper cooking techniques.
Ordered food supplies from vendors to maintain adequate stock levels.
Monitored food production to guarantee quality standards were met.
Established portion control guidelines to reduce waste and maximize profits.
Inspected ingredients and equipment to ensure they meet quality standards.
Ensured compliance with health department regulations regarding hygiene and sanitation practices.
Maintained accurate records of inventory, sales, labor costs, and other operational costs.
Education
High School Diploma -
East Lake High School
Tarpon Springs, FL
10-2001
Skills
Ingredient Sourcing
Chef support
Food Preparation
Food handling
Cooking techniques
Food spoilage prevention
Timeline
General Manager of Operations
Highlander's Grill & Tavern
05.2020 - 09.2022
Food Prep Cook
Bayou Smokehouse & Grill
11.2018 - 08.2023
Chef Assistant
Banner Elk Cafe And Lodge Espresso Bar And Eatery
03.2011 - 09.2024
Head Chef
Rascals Bar And Grill
High School Diploma -
East Lake High School
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