Cook

Reporting to the General Manager and Restaurant Manager, the Cook prepares and presents food cooked to order following company menu, food specifications and timing standards. The Cook adheres to all federal, state and local safe food handling regulations.

Job Requirements

Key Business Areas:

A “Key Business Area” is an area of performance in which the Cook must be successful to meet their accountabilities. Successful results in the Key Business Areas are supported by the following behaviors or actions:

• Prepares, cooks and presents food to order following established company brand standards guidelines and recipe specifications
• Follows correct prepping procedures, utilizing prep charts; properly stores and rotates perishable stock
• Maintains proper food temperatures in accordance with Denny’s Brand Standards, federal, state and local regulations
• Prepares special orders as requested
• Maintains stock to shift par levels
• Correctly calls the wheel when necessary
• Organizes and maintains work areas, coolers and storage areas
• Assists as needed with product inventory and deliveries
• Cleans and takes proper care of ranges, ovens, broilers, fryers, griddles, utensils and other equipment
• Adheres to all safe food handling principles
• Completes side work and deep cleaning assignments correctly and in a timely manner
• Possesses strong product and menu knowledge
• Monitors waste and other food cost controls
• Addresses complaints and concerns promptly in a courteous manner and notifies the supervisor of any issues
• Assists service assistants periodically
• Willingly assists others without being asked
• Adheres to Denny’s Brand Standards and internal policies and procedures
• Provides prompt and courteous service and is cordial to all team members and guests

Essential Functions:

• Must be able to lift and carry supplies and equipment up to 50 lbs throughout shift; place items on high and low shelves in store rooms, service areas, walk-in coolers and freezers
• Must be able to bend, stoop, reach, wipe, lift and grasp
• Must have sufficient mobility to move and operate in confined work area
• Must work inside and outside the restaurant
• Must be able to work with all Denny’s menu products
• Must be able to read tickets, recipes and product specifications, and observe wares for cleanliness
• Must be able to stand and walk throughout a 4 to 8 hour shift
• Must be able to hear well in a loud environment to respond to employee and guest needs
• Must meet any state, county or municipal regulation pertaining to health risk concerns about food handling
• Must be able to work with potentially hazardous chemicals
• Must be able to tolerate extreme temperature changes in kitchen and freezer areas

Position Qualifications:

• Must be 18 years old or older
• Must be able to observe and ensure product is prepared and presented to company Brand Standards
• Must have basic math skills, including understanding of units of measure
• Must meet any state, county or municipal regulation pertaining to health risk concerns about food handling
• Meets Denny’s uniform and grooming standards and maintains them throughout the shift
• Must be able to pass all required tests and training requirements for the position
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule, including holidays, nights and weekends
• Must possess excellent guest service skills
• Must be dependable and able to learn basic tasks and follow instructions
• Must possess reasonable ability to communicate in English both orally and in writing
• Must be able to work in a team environment
• Places a value on diversity and shows respect for others