Paula Soto
Victorville,CA
Summary
Dynamic culinary professional with extensive experience at Phoenix House CA, excelling in kitchen management and food safety. Proven track record of enhancing customer satisfaction through innovative menu development and effective team training. Adept at optimizing kitchen organization while fostering a collaborative environment, consistently achieving high-quality standards and operational efficiency.
Diligent Cook possessing excellent cooking skills and strong knowledge of food safety. Proficient in maintaining well-stocked, organized, and clean kitchen areas to maximize productivity. Dedicated team player with punctual nature and open communication style dedicated to working hard.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Lead Cook
Phoenix House Ca
01.2024 - 04.2026
- Supervised kitchen operations ensuring compliance with health and safety standards.
- Developed and implemented menu items to enhance customer satisfaction.
- Trained and mentored junior cooks, fostering culinary skills and teamwork.
- Coordinated food preparation schedules to optimize workflow efficiency.
- Managed inventory, ensuring timely ordering of supplies to minimize waste.
- Collaborated with dietary staff to accommodate special dietary needs for clients.
- Led daily kitchen meetings to discuss goals, updates, and process improvements.
- Evaluated food quality and presentation, consistently meeting organizational standards.
- Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
- Achieved high customer satisfaction ratings by promptly addressing concerns regarding menu items or food quality issues.
- Delegated jobs within kitchen depending on restaurant traffic and employee skill.
- Contributed to a positive workplace culture through proactive communication with team members at all levels of the organization.
- Oversaw proper storage procedures for perishable items, ensuring freshness and minimizing spoilage risks.
- Developed innovative seasonal menus that catered to diverse dietary needs and preferences, resulting in increased customer satisfaction.
- Trained kitchen staff to perform various preparation tasks under pressure.
- Inspected freezer and refrigerator daily to check and maintain proper temperatures.
- Monitored food production to verify quality and consistency.
- Developed and remained accountable for safety, quality, consistency and adherence to standards.
- Assisted with menu development and planning.
Dietary Supervisor
St.John Health Care
03.2017 - 12.2023
- Developed and implemented meal plans tailored to patient dietary needs and preferences.
- Coordinated inventory management of food supplies, ensuring optimal stock levels were maintained.
- Collaborated with healthcare teams to support patient nutritional requirements in care plans.
- Monitored adherence to food safety regulations during meal preparation and service processes.
- Improved patient satisfaction by developing and implementing dietary plans tailored to individual needs.
- Maintained a clean and safe work environment by enforcing strict sanitation guidelines and safety protocols.
Education
High School Diploma -
San Pedro High
San Pedro, CA06.1984
Skills
Kitchen organization
- Allergen safety
- Large-scale food preparation
- Knife safety
Kitchen management
Food safety
Kitchen organization
Certification
Current Food Handlers Card
Languages
Spanish
Limited Working
Timeline
Lead Cook
Phoenix House Ca
01.2024 - 04.2026
Dietary Supervisor
St.John Health Care
03.2017 - 12.2023
High School Diploma -
San Pedro High