Position Summary
The Grill & Trompo Cook is responsible for preparing grilled meats and proteins according to the restaurant’s recipes, traditional Mexican cooking techniques, and quality standards. This role plays a key part in the preparation of tacos and other menu items that rely on grilled meats and trompo-style preparations, ensuring consistent flavor, proper cooking temperatures, and efficient kitchen workflow.
The Grill & Trompo Cook works closely with the kitchen team to support high-volume food production while maintaining food safety, cleanliness, and operational efficiency in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Key Responsibilities
Food Preparation & Cooking
- Prepare and cook meats, proteins, and other menu items on the grill according to company recipes and culinary standards.
- Prepare and operate traditional Mexican-style vertical spit (“trompo”) cooking stations for pastor and other marinated meats.
- Slice and serve meats directly from the trompo while maintaining proper cooking temperatures, food safety standards, and presentation quality.
- Ensure meats are cooked to proper temperatures and quality specifications.
- Portion and prepare ingredients used for tacos and other menu items.
- Maintain consistency in flavor, presentation, and portion size.
Station Management
- Maintain organization and cleanliness of the grill station at all times.
- Ensure grill equipment is properly heated, cleaned, and maintained during service.
- Monitor cooking times and coordinate food preparation with the rest of the kitchen team.
Operational Efficiency
- Support kitchen workflow during high-volume service periods.
- Communicate with prep cooks and other line cooks to maintain production efficiency.
- Assist in preparing ingredients for upcoming service periods.
Food Safety & Sanitation
- Follow all food safety guidelines including proper food handling and temperature control.
- Maintain clean workstations and adhere to sanitation standards.
- Ensure proper labeling, storage, and rotation of food products.
Team Collaboration
- Work closely with the Sous Chef and kitchen team to ensure efficient service.
- Support team members when needed during busy service periods.
- Follow kitchen leadership instructions and operational procedures.
Required Qualifications
- Previous grill or line cook experience preferred.
- Experience working in high-volume restaurant kitchens is a plus.
- Strong understanding of cooking temperatures and grilling techniques.
- Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Required Certifications
- Florida Food Handler Certification.
- Food Protection Manager Certification preferred (ServSafe or equivalent).
Physical Demands
- Ability to stand for extended periods during shifts.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs when handling kitchen supplies or equipment.
- Ability to work in hot kitchen environments near grills and cooking equipment.
Work Environment
- Fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Exposure to heat, grills, cooking equipment, and sharp tools.
- High-volume service environment during peak hours.
Commitment to Excellence
At Sala de Despecho & Tacos Atarantados, consistency, quality, and teamwork are essential to delivering exceptional culinary experiences. The Grill Cook plays a key role in ensuring that every dish leaving the kitchen meets the restaurant’s standards for flavor, presentation, and authenticity.
Work Schedule: Night Shift – Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, 8:00 PM – 4:00 AM.
Pay: $18.00 - $20.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
