Lead Prep / Lead Catering Cook

Job Description

Job Description

Job Description: Lead Prep Cook / Catering Lead

Location: Food Geeks Eatery – Multi-location comfort food brand & catering company
Department: Kitchen & Catering Operations
Reports to: Executive Chef / Catering Manager

Summary

The Lead Prep Cook / Catering Lead is responsible for overseeing high-volume food preparation and execution for both in-restaurant operations and large-scale catering events. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage prep teams while ensuring food quality, safety, and consistency across multiple locations and catering functions. The ideal candidate will have significant experience with large corporate catering events, be able to thrive in a fast-paced environment, and bring leadership to the prep kitchen. Spanish language skills are a plus.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Execution

• Review daily production schedules and preparation requirements from the Chef or Catering Manager.

• Lead the prep team in preparing high-volume food items according to established recipes, portion controls, and quality standards.

• Conduct quality checks, including tasting completed dishes, to ensure standards are met.

• Organize and oversee food preparation for catering events, ensuring timely execution and delivery readiness.

Operations & Compliance

• Operate, clean, and maintain kitchen equipment according to departmental procedures after each use.

• Store, label, and date all food items in compliance with company policy and HACCP guidelines.

• Maintain accurate documentation, including production worksheets, waste logs, temperature logs, and prep checklists.

• Ensure compliance with all federal, state, and local health and sanitation regulations .

Customer & Event Support

• Assist in setting up, executing, and breaking down catering events as needed.

• Coordinate with front-of-house and catering staff to ensure smooth event service.

• Resolve customer concerns quickly and professionally when supporting catering service.

Team Leadership & Training

• Provide direction and oversight to prep cooks, ensuring tasks are completed efficiently and correctly.

• Assist with onboarding, training, and developing prep staff to follow Food Geeks Eatery’s standards.

• Support scheduling, task assignments, and workflow for prep and catering operations.

Other Duties

• Perform other duties as assigned by leadership, particularly during peak catering seasons or high-volume periods.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of high-volume prep and catering experience required.

• Prior experience leading a kitchen prep team or managing catering operations strongly preferred.

• Strong knowledge of food safety standards, HACCP compliance, and proper sanitation practices.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment with tight deadlines.

• Bilingual in English and Spanish preferred (not required).

• Excellent organizational, time management, and communication skills.

• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for extended periods of time.

Core Competencies

• Leadership and teamwork in kitchen environments.

• Strong attention to detail and consistency in food preparation.

• Adaptability and problem-solving under pressure.

• Commitment to Food Geeks Eatery’s values and hospitality-driven service culture.

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive hourly pay + overtime opportunities.

• Meal discounts at all Food Geeks Eatery locations.

• Opportunities for growth within a multi-location, expanding brand .

• Flexible scheduling during non-peak catering seasons.