Job Description Full-Time Cook
Tribal Slice – Picuris Pueblo
Location: Picuris Pueblo, Peñasco, New Mexico
Department: Food Services
Employment Status: Full-Time, Non-Exempt
Reports To: Tribal Slice Manager/Gov/Council
Position Summary
The Full-Time Cook is responsible for preparing and serving high-quality food while maintaining the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and customer service. The Cook ensures meals are prepared efficiently, consistently, and according to established recipes and portion standards. This position contributes to creating a welcoming dining experience for Tribal members, employees, visitors, and guests while supporting the mission and values of Picuris Pueblo. Duties commonly include food preparation, maintaining kitchen cleanliness, following food safety procedures, inventory support, and teamwork within a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Essential Duties and Responsibilities
- Prepare menu items according to approved recipes and quality standards.
- Ensure food is prepared, plated, and served in a timely and professional manner.
- Prepare ingredients by washing, chopping, measuring, marinating, and portioning food.
- Operate commercial kitchen equipment including grills, fryers, ovens, mixers, slicers, and other food preparation equipment safely.
- Monitor food temperatures and ensure compliance with all food safety regulations.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen, food preparation areas, refrigerators, freezers, and storage areas.
- Follow all New Mexico Department of Health food safety regulations and HACCP principles.
- Rotate inventory using FIFO (First In, First Out) methods.
- Assist with receiving deliveries and storing food and supplies properly.
- Monitor food inventory and notify management of shortages or ordering needs.
- Minimize food waste while maintaining portion control.
- Assist with menu preparation and daily specials.
- Ensure all kitchen equipment is cleaned and maintained.
- Work cooperatively with kitchen staff and front-of-house employees.
- Provide excellent customer service and maintain a professional attitude.
- Assist with catering, community events, tribal functions, and special occasions as assigned.
- Perform opening and closing kitchen duties.
- Complete all required cleaning and sanitation checklists.
- Perform other duties as assigned.
Minimum Qualifications
- High School Diploma or GED preferred.
- Minimum one (1) year of commercial cooking or restaurant experience preferred.
- Experience preparing meals in a fast-paced environment preferred.
- Valid Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within required timeframe).
- Ability to pass a criminal background check and pre-employment drug screening, if required by Tribal policy.
- Must possess a valid New Mexico Driver's License or reliable transportation.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.
Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities
- Knowledge of food preparation techniques and commercial kitchen operations.
- Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper food storage procedures.
- Ability to follow standardized recipes.
- Ability to multitask and prioritize work efficiently.
- Strong organizational and time management skills.
- Excellent customer service and communication skills.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
- Ability to maintain confidentiality and professionalism.
- Respect for Native American culture, traditions, and the mission of Picuris Pueblo.
Physical Requirements
The employee must be able to:
- Stand and walk for extended periods (up to 8 hours).
- Frequently bend, stoop, kneel, reach, and lift.
- Lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
- Work in hot, humid kitchen environments.
- Safely operate commercial kitchen equipment.
- Work around hot surfaces, steam, sharp utensils, and cleaning chemicals.
Work Environment
- Commercial kitchen environment.
- Exposure to heat, steam, cooking equipment, and cleaning chemicals.
- Fast-paced environment requiring attention to detail and multitasking.
- Evening, weekend, holiday, and special event work may be required.
Compensation and Benefits
Compensation: Competitive hourly wage based on qualifications and experience.
Indian Preference
Preference in filling vacancies will be given to qualified Native American applicants in accordance with the Indian Preference Act and the Picuris Pueblo Tribal Employment Rights Ordinance (TERO), where applicable
Work Location: In person
