Raul Cruz
Chicago,IL
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
Summary
Dynamic culinary professional with extensive experience at DuckDuckGoat, excelling in kitchen workflow optimization and food safety compliance. Proven ability to collaborate effectively with teams under pressure, ensuring high-quality dish preparation and sanitation standards. Skilled in grilling techniques and maintaining organized workstations, contributing to a seamless dining experience.
Work History
Line Cook
DuckDuckGoat
857 W Fulton Market
03.2023 - Current
- Collaborated with team members to enhance kitchen workflow and communication.
- Developed knowledge of various cooking techniques and cuisine styles effectively.
- Collaborated with team members to maintain a clean and safe working environment, adhering to health and safety guidelines.
- Prepared food items such as meats, poultry, and fish for frying purposes.
- Changed and sanitized cutting boards, benches, and surfaces between tasks to avoid cross-contamination.
- Upheld strict sanitation standards while preparing meals, maintaining a clean workspace free of cross-contamination risks.
- Checked food temperature regularly to verify proper cooking and safety.
- Maintained well-stocked stations with supplies and spices for maximum productivity.
- Supported head chef during high-volume periods by efficiently executing complex tasks with precision under pressure.
- Grilled meats and seafood to customer specifications.
- Wrapped up and stored unused food in appropriate containers and placed in refrigerator to avoid spoilage.
Cook
Sweetwater Tavern & Grille
224 N Michigan Ave
02.2019 - 04.2021
- Prepared and cooked high-quality dishes following standardized recipes.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen equipment and workstations.
- Collaborated with team members to ensure timely meal service during busy shifts.
- Assisted in menu planning and development of seasonal specials to enhance offerings.
Prep Cook
Formento's
925 W Randolph St Chicago IL 60607
06.2017 - 01.2019
- Prepared ingredients by washing, chopping, and measuring for daily menu items.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen stations to ensure efficient workflow.
- Assisted in inventory management by tracking supplies and reporting shortages promptly.
- Followed food safety guidelines to prevent cross-contamination and ensure compliance.
- Trained new kitchen staff on proper food preparation techniques and safety protocols.
- Supported team during peak hours by managing multiple tasks simultaneously in fast-paced environment.
- 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.
Education
No Degree -
Nicholas Seen High School
5900 N Glenwood AveNo Degree -
Harrys Truman College
1145 W Wilson 60640Skills
Kitchen workflow optimization
Food safety compliance
Culinary technique development
Menu planning assistance
Station organization
Sanitation standards adherence
Cutting and food preparation
Temperature control monitoring
Cross-contamination prevention
Team collaboration skills
Grilling techniques
Task execution under pressure
Time management in cooking
Cleaning and organization
Professional attitude
Food preparation
Active listener
Knife skills
Timeline
Line Cook
DuckDuckGoat
03.2023 - Current
Cook
Sweetwater Tavern & Grille
02.2019 - 04.2021
Prep Cook
Formento's
06.2017 - 01.2019
No Degree -
Nicholas Seen High School
No Degree -
Harrys Truman College