Sajin Shaji
Redwood City,CO
Summary
Culinary professional with comprehensive experience in high-pressure kitchen environments, driving quality and efficiency. Known for exceptional culinary skills and ability to innovate while maintaining consistency. Reliable team collaborator with focus on achieving culinary excellence and adapting to evolving needs.
Overview
7
7
years of professional experience
Work History
Sous Chef
Benihana
San Mateo, CA
01.2026 - Current
- Maintained inventory control by tracking stock levels and ordering supplies as needed.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless service during busy shifts.
- Implemented new recipe testing procedures to innovate menu offerings and improve guest satisfaction.
- Monitored kitchen operations to uphold health and safety regulations, ensuring compliance at all times.
- Planned and directed high-volume food preparation in fast-paced environment.
- Managed inventory levels effectively, resulting in reduced food waste and cost savings for the establishment.
Assistant Sous Chef
Koriander Indian Cuisine & Catering
California, USA
06.2023 - 10.2025
- Increased beverage sales with food and drink pairing suggestions to suit unique customer preferences.
- Led kitchen team in preparing high-quality dishes, ensuring consistency and presentation standards.
- Developed seasonal menus that aligned with culinary trends and customer preferences.
- Streamlined food preparation processes to enhance efficiency and reduce waste in the kitchen.
- Trained junior chefs on cooking techniques and safety protocols, fostering a collaborative environment.
Line Cook
Marriott Internationals
Texas, USA
08.2022 - 06.2023
- Assisted in meal preparation, ensuring adherence to recipes and presentation standards.
- Operated kitchen equipment safely and efficiently, maintaining cleanliness and functionality.
- Trained new staff on kitchen protocols, safety practices, and food handling procedures.
- Grilled meats and seafood to customer specifications.
- Enhanced customer satisfaction by consistently delivering high-quality dishes in a timely manner.
Chef Trainee
Westin Hotels and Resorts
Dubai, UAE
09.2021 - 05.2022
- Provided exceptional service to high volume of daily customers.
- Mastered knife skills through daily practice, improving precision in cuts and overall presentation of dishes.
- Shadowed head chef on inventory management tasks, gaining valuable knowledge about ordering supplies and minimizing costs.
- Excelled in fast-paced kitchen environment by adapting to changing circumstances and maintaining a professional demeanor under pressure.
- Supported fellow team members during high-volume periods, ensuring timely completion of orders and satisfied guests.
- Maintained safety standards by adhering to proper food handling procedures and cleanliness guidelines.
Industrial Trainee
Marriott Hotels
12.2020 - 05.2021
- Assisted head chef in creating innovative dishes for daily menus, resulting in increased customer satisfaction.
- Prepared mise en place prior to service hours for seamless execution of menu items during peak times.
- Mastered proper knife skills to efficiently complete vegetable cuts, meat trimming, and filleting tasks.
- Streamlined food preparation processes, enhancing efficiency during peak service times without compromising quality.
Industrial Trainee
Taj West End
03.2019 - 05.2019
- Delivered exceptional customer service, ensuring positive dining experiences for all guests.
- Operated point-of-sale systems efficiently, processing transactions accurately and swiftly.
- Implemented inventory management practices to minimize waste and ensure product availability.
Education
B.Sc - Hotel Management ( Culinary & Service)
Yuvakshetra Institute of Management Studies
INDIA01.2021
Higher Secondary - AISSE
MET English Medium Higher Secondary School
INDIA01.2018
AISSE -
Darul Aman English Medium School
INDIA01.2016
Skills
Menu planning and execution
Beverage preparation
Culinary expertise
Order management
POS and cash handling
Kitchen leadership
Food safety
Inventory management
Kitchen organization
Staff training
Accomplishments
Participated in the Indian Premier League (IPL) as part of the culinary team during internship with Taj Hotels.
References
- Vishnu Prasad, Senior F&B Associate, Vishnutnz@gmail.com
- Henley Lamar, F&B Manager, Dallas Marriott Downtown, LaMar.Henley@marriott.com, LaMar.Henley180@gmail.com
Languages
Spanish
Limited Working
English
Full Professional
Timeline
Sous Chef
Benihana
01.2026 - Current
Assistant Sous Chef
Koriander Indian Cuisine & Catering
06.2023 - 10.2025
Line Cook
Marriott Internationals
08.2022 - 06.2023
Chef Trainee
Westin Hotels and Resorts
09.2021 - 05.2022
Industrial Trainee
Marriott Hotels
12.2020 - 05.2021
Industrial Trainee
Taj West End
03.2019 - 05.2019
Higher Secondary - AISSE
MET English Medium Higher Secondary School
AISSE -
Darul Aman English Medium School
B.Sc - Hotel Management ( Culinary & Service)
Yuvakshetra Institute of Management Studies