Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Certification
Timeline
Hi, I’m

TERI THELEN

Garland,TX

Summary

Proven multitasker and exceptional communicator, I enhanced guest satisfaction and streamlined operations in various serving roles, notably focusing on quality control and engagement. As a self-employed Home Chef, I innovated recipes and optimized food safety, significantly elevating dining experiences. Skilled in cash handling and maintaining cleanliness standards, I drive results through dedication and a strong work ethic. I am a motivated chef with an engaging personality and flexible approach. I am upbeat and friendly and anticipate customer needs to facilitate enjoyable dining experiences. A hardworking and passionate job seeker with solid organizational skills eager to secure an entry-level chef position. Ready to help the team achieve company goals. A hardworking and passionate job seeker with organizational solid skills eager to secure entry-level restaurant manager position. Ready to help team achieve company goals. Detail-oriented team player with strong organizational skills. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously with a high degree of accuracy.

Overview

20
years of professional experience
2
Certification

Work History

Various

Server /Wait Staff Member

Job overview

  • Demonstrated strong multitasking skills by managing multiple tables simultaneously without compromising service quality.
  • Served food and beverages promptly with focused attention to customer needs.
  • Worked with POS system to place orders, manage bills, and handle complimentary items.
  • Collaborated with team members during busy shifts for efficient workflow and excellent guest experiences.
  • Enhanced customer satisfaction by promptly attending to their needs and providing personalized service.
  • Performed opening and closing duties, ensuring the dining area was prepared for seamless service transitions.
  • Cultivated warm relationships with regular customers.
  • Maintained a clean and orderly dining area for an enjoyable guest experience.
  • Bussed and reset tables to keep dining room and work areas clean.
  • Addressed customer complaints or concerns professionally, ensuring swift resolution and maintaining positive relationships.
  • Handled cash transactions accurately, contributing to balanced daily financial reports.
  • Used slow periods to restock supplies, ice, trays, and delivery bags.
  • Adhered to proper food handling procedures and safety guidelines for the well-being of guests and team members alike.
  • Utilized communication practices with kitchen staff to deliver customer meals in timely manner.
  • Implemented effective communication strategies between front-of-house and back-of-house staff for streamlined operations.

Self-employeed

Home Chef
03.2004 - Current

Job overview

  • Oversaw grill, stove, and oven, and cleaned equipment after every shift.
  • Checked freezer and refrigerator prior to each shift to verify correct temperatures.
  • Placed orders to restock items before supplies ran out.
  • Optimized food preparation processes, implementing time-saving techniques without compromising quality.
  • Handled and stored food to eliminate illness and prevent cross-contamination.
  • Utilized proper cleaning techniques to sanitize counters and utensils used in preparation of raw meat, poultry, fish, and eggs.
  • Prevented cross-contamination from utensils, surfaces, and pans when cooking and plating meals for food allergy sufferers.
  • Prepared meals from scratch using authentic, popular recipes to generate repeat business.
  • Successfully met dietary requirements for diverse clientele by providing customized meal options upon request.
  • Upheld stringent food safety regulations, ensuring compliance with all relevant health department guidelines.
  • Adapted menus seasonally, incorporating fresh produce to create visually appealing and flavorful dishes.
  • Managed food costs, sourcing ingredients from local suppliers to support community partnerships and sustainable practices.
  • Disciplined and dedicated to meeting high-quality standards.
  • Evaluated food products to verify freshness and quality.
  • Utilized culinary techniques to create visually appealing dishes.
  • Implemented food cost and waste reduction initiatives to save money.
  • Modified recipes to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies.
  • Developed new recipes and flavor combinations to enhance customer dining experience.

Education

Texas A&M International University
Laredo, TX

Master of Arts from Criminal Justice
05.2025

University Overview

  • Scholarship Recipient of Lamar Bruni Vergara
  • GPA = 3.82

Texas A&M University - Texarkana
Texarkana, TX

Bachelor of Arts from Behavioral Sciences
05.2022

University Overview

  • Cum Laude
  • Dean's List - multiple semesters
  • GPA 3.72
  • Member of National Collegiate Honor Society


Skills

  • Strong Work Ethic
  • Exceptional customer service
  • Cash Handling
  • Guest Engagement
  • Professional Appearance
  • Cleanliness standards
  • Safe Food Handling
  • Food safety understanding
  • Order Accuracy
  • Quality Control
  • Food safety practices
  • Dining area maintenance
  • Tableside Etiquette
  • Beverage Preparation
  • Guest Seating

Certification

Texas Department of Health Services Food Handling Certificate


Texas Alcohol and Beverage Commission certification

Timeline

Home Chef
Self-employeed
03.2004 - Current
Texas A&M International University
Master of Arts from Criminal Justice
Texas A&M University - Texarkana
Bachelor of Arts from Behavioral Sciences
Server /Wait Staff Member
Various
TERI THELEN