CATERING PREP COOK
A La Carte Catering & Cakes – Dallas, TX
Job Type: Full-Time
Pay: $15.00 – $17.00 per hour (Based on Experience)
ABOUT US
With over 30 years of excellence in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, A La Carte Catering & Cakes offers a professional yet family-oriented environment where your work supports large-scale, high-quality events. We value consistency, teamwork, and strong execution.
Our Work Environment Includes:
- Growth opportunities
- On-the-job training
- Flexible scheduling
- Team-oriented environment
- Food provided
**PLEASE READ AND REVIEW THE JOB DESCRIPTION AND REQUIREMENTS CAREFULLY BEFORE APPLYING.**
POSITION OVERVIEW
We are seeking a dependable Prep Cook to support catering production. This is not a fast-food or short-order role. Our kitchen operates in a production-based environment focused on bulk preparation, assembly, and packaging for large-scale events.
Team members work together to execute prep lists and meet event timelines. There is no traditional line service.
Daily production may include preparing food for events ranging from 100 to 1,000+ guests.
WHAT THIS ROLE IS:
- Production-based food preparation
- Focused on consistency, speed, and organization
- Team-driven with shared responsibilities
WHAT THIS ROLE IS NOT:
- A fast-food or short-order cooking position
- A made-to-order or customer-facing cooking role
- Focused on individual plating or à la carte service
RESPONSIBILITIES
Food Preparation
- Prepare large-batch recipes including vegetables, proteins, sauces, sandwiches, and salads
- Chop, slice, marinate, portion, and package food for events
- Label, organize, and stage food for delivery
- Follow prep lists and recipes to maintain consistency
Production Support
- Execute prep lists accurately and on schedule
- Assist with batch cooking and food production as needed
- Support food staging and event preparation
Food Safety & Quality
- Follow all food safety and sanitation standards
- Maintain proper food temperatures, labeling, and storage
- Ensure consistency and quality across large quantities
Kitchen Cleanliness & Organization
- Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workstation
- Support overall kitchen cleanliness as part of daily workflow
Team Collaboration & Flexibility
- Work efficiently in a fast-paced environment
- Support team production to meet deadlines
- Adapt to changing priorities and event needs
WHAT A TYPICAL DAY LOOKS LIKE
- Executing prep lists for multiple events
- Preparing bulk recipes (depends on daily orders)
- Portioning, packaging, and labeling food
- Working on your feet in a fast-paced production environment
- Supporting team production to meet strict timelines
SUCCESS IN THIS ROLE LOOKS LIKE
- Completing prep lists accurately and on time
- Maintaining consistency across large quantities
- Keeping your station clean and organized
- Working independently without constant supervision
- Demonstrating consistent attendance and reliability
WORK ENVIRONMENT
- Fast-paced, high-volume production kitchen
- Repetitive, detail-oriented work
- Requires standing for long periods
- Team-based environment with shared responsibilities
REQUIREMENTS
- 1–3 years of experience in catering, commissary, meal prep, or high-volume kitchen production required
- Experience working with bulk food preparation in a high-volume environment
- Strong knife skills and ability to maintain consistency across large quantities
- Ability to follow detailed prep lists and work independently
- Comfortable working with large quantities (20+ lbs, batch cooking, bulk prep)
- Food safety knowledge required
- Food Handler’s Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire)
- Reliable transportation and strong punctuality
- Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 70 lbs
- Valid driver’s license preferred
- Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred
- Ability to work efficiently under time constraints and meet production deadlines
**APPLICATION REQUIREMENT**
To be considered, you must include a detailed summary of your experience with high-volume or bulk food preparation, including the number of people you have prepared food for in previous roles. Incomplete or vague applications may not be reviewed.
This role is ideal for individuals who prefer structured, production-based kitchen environments over restaurant-style service.
In our kitchen, preparation drives performance. Strong prep ensures successful events.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $15.00 - $17.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Flexible schedule
- Paid time off
Shift:
- 10 hour shift
- 8 hour shift
- Day shift
- Morning shift
Application Question(s):
- How many people were you typically preparing food for in your previous role? Please include approximate numbers.
- Describe your experience with high-volume or bulk food preparation. Include examples of the types of food and quantities you prepared.
- Describe your attendance and punctuality in your previous role. How did you ensure you were on time for shifts?
- How do you stay organized and efficient when working on multiple prep tasks at the same time?
- What days and times are you available to work? Please include early mornings, evenings, and weekends.
License/Certification:
- Food Handler’s Certification required within 7 days of hire. (Required)
Shift availability:
Work Location: In person
