Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Languages
Timeline
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Paul Tillman

Lynchburg,VA

Summary

Dynamic culinary professional with a proven track record at Soul Food Delight, excelling in high-volume environments. Recognized for enhancing kitchen efficiency and reducing food waste through innovative practices. Strong leadership and teamwork skills, coupled with a commitment to food safety and quality, ensure exceptional dining experiences. Adaptable and detail-oriented, consistently meeting health standards.

Experienced leader with strong background in guiding teams, managing complex projects, and achieving strategic objectives. Excels in developing efficient processes, ensuring high standards, and aligning efforts with organizational goals. Known for collaborative approach and commitment to excellence.

Overview

19
19
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work History

Lead Cook

Soul Food Delight
04.2025 - 06.2025
  • Efficiently handled high-volume orders while maintaining superior food quality through precise execution of cooking methods.
  • Maintained a high standard of food quality by consistently reviewing dishes for taste, presentation, and adherence to established guidelines.
  • Took over line positions in event of emergency.
  • Enhanced kitchen efficiency by streamlining cooking processes and implementing time-saving techniques.
  • Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
  • Consistently met or exceeded health code standards by enforcing strict sanitation practices throughout the kitchen area.

Correctional Food Service

Haynesville Correctional Center
10.2018 - 12.2025
  • Self-motivated, with a strong sense of personal responsibility.
  • Worked effectively in fast-paced environments.
  • Skilled at working independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
  • Proven ability to learn quickly and adapt to new situations.
  • Managed time efficiently in order to complete all tasks within deadlines.
  • Organized and detail-oriented with a strong work ethic.
  • Adaptable and proficient in learning new concepts quickly and efficiently.

Machine Operator

Haynesville Correctional Center
03.2017 - 09.2018
  • Followed detailed instructions to operate machines with accuracy and produce quality products.
  • Set up and adjusted equipment and properly configured machines for daily operation.
  • Complied with company and OSHA safety rules and regulations.
  • Demonstrated adaptability by quickly learning how to operate new machinery and implementing newly introduced processes within the production environment.

Line and Prep Cook

The Corner at Rivermont
03.2014 - 04.2016
  • Demonstrated strong multitasking abilities, managing multiple food stations simultaneously without compromising quality or speed.
  • Washed, peeled, and cut fruits and vegetables in advance to save time on food preparation.
  • Maintained clean, hygienic kitchen workspace by sweeping, mopping, and taking out trash.
  • Set up and prepared cooking supplies and workstations during opening and closing to maximize productivity.
  • Enhanced kitchen efficiency by maintaining a clean and organized workspace during busy shifts.
  • Streamlined meal prep process, cutting down food waste significantly.

Logistics Team Member

Target
11.2011 - 06.2013
  • Managed inventory control for optimal stock levels, reducing waste and improving order fulfillment rates.
  • Handled high-volume paperwork and collaborated with administrators to resolve invoicing and shipping problems.
  • Coordinated with suppliers to ensure timely delivery of goods, maintaining strong relationships and minimizing delays.
  • Trained new team members on best practices in logistics operations, fostering a supportive work culture that prioritized teamwork and collaboration.

Lead Cook/General Manager

Waffle House
01.2007 - 11.2011
  • Supervised line cooks to monitor food safety and order accuracy.
  • Reduced food waste by closely monitoring inventory levels and developing creative recipes to utilize surplus ingredients.
  • Taught kitchen staff safety protocols and restaurant standards.
  • Implemented effective cross-training initiatives, which allowed team members to seamlessly cover various roles during peak service times.
  • Monitored cooks and dishwasher performance and suggested improvements to streamline processes and increase team efficiency.
  • Demonstrated strong leadership skills by stepping in as acting kitchen manager during periods of personnel absence or transition.
  • Took food orders from cashiers and cooked items quickly to complete order items together and serve hot.

Education

James Monroe
Fredericksburg, VA

Skills

  • Friendly, positive attitude
  • Teamwork and collaboration
  • Customer service
  • Problem-solving
  • Time management
  • Multitasking Abilities
  • Critical thinking
  • Problem resolution

Certification

  • ServSafe Certified

Languages

English
Native or Bilingual

Timeline

Lead Cook

Soul Food Delight
04.2025 - 06.2025

Correctional Food Service

Haynesville Correctional Center
10.2018 - 12.2025

Machine Operator

Haynesville Correctional Center
03.2017 - 09.2018

Line and Prep Cook

The Corner at Rivermont
03.2014 - 04.2016

Logistics Team Member

Target
11.2011 - 06.2013

Lead Cook/General Manager

Waffle House
01.2007 - 11.2011

James Monroe
Paul Tillman