Kitchen Prep and Restaurant Line Team Staff

Bear s Restaurant Group•New Haven, CT

About The Position

The Prep and Line Team Member is responsible for supporting daily restaurant operations by preparing food for both restaurant service and catering orders prior to opening, and transitioning to front-line service once the restaurant opens. This role combines kitchen prep, meat cutting, and line service responsibilities to ensure guests receive high-quality food prepared consistently according to company recipes and standards. The ideal candidate is dependable, detail-oriented, and able to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment. This position requires strong food safety practices, the ability to follow standardized recipes, and a commitment to maintaining quality and consistency across all food prepared. During service, the team member works directly with guests and fellow team members to ensure orders are prepared accurately, quickly, and with excellent hospitality.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent. Relevant experience in food production or high volume catering or restaurant operations preferred.
Ability to follow standard recipes, implement new recipes and processes, and continuously monitor food quality in a high-volume setting.
Comprehensive knowledge of food preparation, and quality standards in a high-volume environment.
Ability to follow production schedules, prioritize and manage multiple tasks, and consistently meet deadlines with an emphasis on attention to detail and overall quality.
Commitment to upholding company standards.
Strong focus on ensuring the highest quality product and service for guests and clients.
Understanding of local, state, and federal health and safety regulations, including food handling and storage requirements.

Nice To Haves

ServSafe certification preferred.

Responsibilities

Prepare food items prior to restaurant opening to support daily restaurant service and catering orders.
Follow company-approved recipes, preparation guides, and portion standards to ensure product consistency and quality.
Assist with preparation of sides, sauces, meats, and other menu items according to production needs and restaurant pars.
Accurately measure, cut, mix, portion, and label food items for service and catering use.
Assist with smoker loading and preparation of proteins according to restaurant pars and management direction.
Slice and portion smoked meats using proper cutting techniques to maintain quality, presentation, and accurate portions.
Follow preparation guidelines to portion, sauce, and serve meats accurately based on guest selections.
Prepare specialty items, such as burnt ends, as needed during service.
Monitor product quality throughout preparation and service and notify management of any concerns.
Transition to the service line when the restaurant opens, preparing and serving menu items quickly and accurately.
Maintain strong knowledge of the menu and ingredients to confidently answer guest questions and provide recommendations.
Interact with guests in a friendly, professional manner to create a welcoming and efficient service experience.
Communicate clearly with team members to ensure order accuracy and smooth workflow during service.
Consistently practice safe food handling and maintain strict adherence to sanitation standards.
Maintain a clean, organized workstation, including prep areas, service line, and equipment.
Properly label, date, and store food items according to company food safety standards.
Set up and stock the service line prior to opening and maintain backups throughout the shift.
Assist with receiving, organizing, and storing food deliveries.
Operate kitchen tools and equipment safely, including proper knife handling procedures.
Support overall restaurant operations by maintaining efficiency, minimizing waste, and contributing to a strong team environment.