Mirna L. Argueta
Fredericksburg,VA
Summary
Dedicated and dependable culinary professional with more than 30 years of experience preparing high-quality meals in fast-paced restaurants, buffets, and hospitality environments. Skilled in food preparation, cooking, recipe execution, kitchen sanitation, inventory management, and maintaining exceptional food quality. Recognized for working efficiently under pressure, supporting team members, and consistently delivering excellent customer service while maintaining high food safety standards.
Overview
34
34
years of professional experience
Work History
Assistant Manager / Cook
Great American Buffet
06.2017 - 06.2026
- Prepared a wide variety of meats, poultry, seafood, vegetables, soups, sauces, and side dishes for high-volume buffet service.
- Assisted with supervising daily kitchen operations and coordinated food preparation to ensure timely meal service.
- Maintained food quality, presentation, and portion consistency according to company standards.
- Trained and supported new kitchen employees on food preparation procedures, safety, and sanitation practices.
- Monitored food inventory, rotated stock, and minimized food waste.
- Operated commercial grills, ovens, fryers, steam tables, and other kitchen equipment safely.
- Maintained a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen in compliance with health department regulations.
- Assisted with opening and closing kitchen procedures and ensured adequate food preparation for each shift.
- Worked collaboratively with kitchen staff to provide excellent guest satisfaction during peak dining hours.
Cook
Golden Corral Buffet
Fredericksburg, VA
09.2016 - 06.2017
- Prepared fresh food items for buffet service while maintaining quality and presentation standards.
- Cooked meats, vegetables, side dishes, and specialty menu items using commercial kitchen equipment.
- Maintained proper food temperatures and followed food safety regulations.
- Restocked food stations throughout service to ensure continuous availability.
- Assisted with food preparation and kitchen cleanup before and after service.
- Worked efficiently in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
2nd Cook
James Enterprise Inc.
Fort Belvoir, VA
10.2005 - 09.2016
- Prepared breakfast, lunch, and dinner meals for high-volume food service operations.
- Assisted the head cook with daily meal preparation and production schedules.
- Prepared meats, poultry, vegetables, sauces, soups, and side dishes according to standardized recipes.
- Operated grills, ovens, fryers, steamers, and other commercial kitchen equipment.
- Ensured food was prepared safely while maintaining proper portion sizes and quality standards.
- Maintained cleanliness of workstations and complied with sanitation and food handling regulations.
- Assisted with receiving deliveries, stocking inventory, and rotating food products.
- Worked efficiently to meet meal service deadlines while maintaining consistency and accuracy.
Server
Belle Haven Country Club
Alexandria, VA
09.2000 - 09.2005
- Delivered exceptional dining service to members and guests in a fine dining environment.
- Assisted with banquet and special event service.
- Maintained knowledge of menu items and daily specials.
- Collaborated closely with kitchen staff to ensure timely and accurate meal delivery.
- Maintained clean dining areas and upheld high hospitality standards.
- Resolved guest requests professionally while creating a welcoming dining experience.
Kitchen Prep
Western Sizzlin Franchise Corporation
Alexandria, VA
04.1992 - 09.2000
- Prepared fresh vegetables, meats, poultry, and other ingredients for daily meal production.
- Measured and prepared sauces, seasonings, and food items according to recipes.
- Assisted cooks by maintaining stocked prep stations throughout each shift.
- Operated food preparation equipment safely and efficiently.
- Maintained clean and sanitized work areas following health and safety regulations.
- Received, organized, and stored food deliveries using proper inventory rotation methods.
- Assisted with opening and closing kitchen duties.
- Supported kitchen staff during busy meal periods to ensure efficient service.
Skills
- Food Preparation & Cooking
- Commercial Kitchen Equipment
- Food Safety & Sanitation
- Knife Skills
- Grill, Fryer & Oven Operation
- Meat, Poultry & Seafood Preparation
- Vegetable & Sauce Preparation
- Recipe & Portion Control
- Food Quality Standards
- Inventory & Stock Rotation (FIFO)
- Kitchen Organization
- Team Collaboration
Additional Qualifications
- Over 30 years of restaurant and commercial kitchen experience
- Experienced in high-volume restaurant and buffet operations
- Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation procedures
- Able to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods
- Comfortable working evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Dependable team player with excellent work ethic and attention to detail
Timeline
Assistant Manager / Cook
Great American Buffet
06.2017 - 06.2026
Cook
Golden Corral Buffet
09.2016 - 06.2017
2nd Cook
James Enterprise Inc.
10.2005 - 09.2016
Server
Belle Haven Country Club
09.2000 - 09.2005
Kitchen Prep
Western Sizzlin Franchise Corporation
04.1992 - 09.2000