Michael Harper
Farmington,NM
Summary
Dynamic Head Cook with extensive experience at Durango Diner, excelling in food safety management and staff training. Proven track record in enhancing menu offerings and ensuring quality assurance, resulting in increased customer satisfaction. Adept at inventory oversight and fostering a collaborative kitchen environment, driving operational efficiency and compliance with health regulations.
Overview
17
17
years of professional experience
Work History
Head Cook
Durango Diner
Durango Diner, CO
06.2004 - 06.2021
- Trained new staff members in safe food handling procedures and knife skills.
- Monitored portion size and waste control to maintain cost effectiveness.
- Ensured that all food safety regulations were followed in the kitchen.
- Ordered supplies, ingredients, and equipment needed for the kitchen.
- Worked closely with restaurant managers to ensure smooth operations in the kitchen.
- Resolved customer complaints quickly and efficiently while maintaining a professional attitude at all times.
- Maintained inventory of all food items and ensured proper storage techniques were used.
- Consulted with executive chef regarding menu changes or other matters related to the kitchen.
- Cut, chopped and sliced meat and produce to prepare for cooking.
- Followed recipes and procedures to prepare, season and cook food products.
- Conducted regular quality control checks to ensure all dishes met hygiene and taste standards.
- Communicated with kitchen employees, answered questions and offered insight into food preparations.
- Followed "first in, first out" rule with every food and beverage item, tossing outdated and expired food products.
- Sanitized counters and utensils used for preparation of raw meat, poultry, fish and eggs.
- Coordinated with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of fresh ingredients.
- Served as lead cook, guiding and assisting training of less experienced cooks.
- Cleaned and sanitized work stations and equipment, complying with regulatory procedures.
- Checked freezer and refrigerator each day to verify proper functioning.
- Ensured compliance with all relevant laws and regulations regarding food safety.
- Operated variety of kitchen equipment to measure and mix ingredients.
- Kept kitchen, cooking utensils and storeroom clean and neat.
- Placed orders for food and supplies used for preparing and cooking meals.
- Chopped and diced vegetables and fruits to stock fridge ahead of busy periods.
- Created tasty dishes using popular recipes, delighting patrons and generating return business.
- Communicated effectively with wait staff regarding patron food allergies and dietary restrictions.
- Oversaw inventory and ordered ingredients to restock freezers, fridges and pantry.
- Prepared variety of foods according to exact instructions and recipe specifications.
- Used proper cleaning supplies and methods to disinfect counters where raw meat, poultry, fish and eggs had been prepared.
- Prepared workstations with ingredients and tools to increase efficiency.
- Cleaned and sanitized kitchen equipment, utensils and work stations.
- Observed food safety and sanitation protocols to reduce germ spread.
Education
GED -
Pueblo Community College
Durango, CO05-2010
Skills
- Food safety management
- Inventory oversight
- Menu development
- Staff training and development
- Recipe compliance
- Quality assurance
Affiliations
- I love to fish and being around the lakes. I also love taking my kids to the park to play and to take them swimming.
Timeline
Head Cook
Durango Diner
06.2004 - 06.2021
GED -
Pueblo Community College