Morning Cook

Position Summary

The Deli Morning Cook is responsible for preparing, cooking, merchandising, and maintaining the hot bar and other prepared food offerings for customers. This position ensures high-quality food production, food safety compliance, proper presentation, and excellent customer service while maintaining a clean and organized work environment. This position has start times ranging from 5am - 8am

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Production

• Prepare and cook hot bar items according to company recipes and production standards.
• Set up and stock the hot bar before store opening.
• Monitor product quality, freshness, and appearance throughout the day.
• Follow production schedules to maintain adequate inventory and minimize waste.
• Prepare side dishes, entrees, soups, breakfast items, and specialty offerings as assigned.
• Properly label, date, and rotate products using FIFO (First In, First Out) procedures.
• Ensure all food is held at proper temperatures and meets food safety standards.

Merchandising & Presentation

• Maintain an attractive, full, and clean hot bar presentation throughout operating hours.
• Replenish products as needed to maximize sales opportunities.
• Ensure food displays meet company merchandising standards.
• Monitor sales trends and adjust production levels accordingly.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Follow all local, state, and federal food safety regulations.
• Maintain proper hot and cold holding temperatures and complete required logs.
• Practice proper handwashing and personal hygiene procedures.
• Clean and sanitize equipment, utensils, workstations, and food preparation areas.
• Report any food safety concerns to management immediately.

Customer Service

• Provide friendly and professional customer service.
• Answer customer questions regarding ingredients, preparation methods, and menu items.
• Assist customers with special requests when possible.
• Promote department products and suggest complementary items.

Team Support

• Assist with catering, special orders, and other deli production as needed.
• Work collaboratively with deli team members to ensure department success.
• Support department goals for sales, food quality, labor, and shrink control.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by management.