What are the responsibilities and job description for the Restaurant Dishwasher/Prep Cook position at Royal Gorge Route Railroad?
Dishwasher/Prep Cook
Reports To: Kitchen Manager, Executive Chef, Sous Chef
FLSA Status: Hourly, Non-Exempt
Prepared By: HR Director
Prepared Date: 6/27/26
Compensation: $18.00–$19.00 per hour
About Us
Welcome to old-world grandeur with comfy, sumptuous updates that celebrate the spirit of good times, delicious food and great friends. We've designed a space and a place where top-rated, lively dining experiences unfold, inside and out. This is where people connect and indulge in every detail, every moment – in a truly special, historic destination, in total comfort and style.
Launching in August 2026, our brand new Antithesis restaurant lives within the historic Royal Gorge Mansion (formerly the Robison Mansion, built in the 1880s). Located in the Royal Gorge Region, Colorado (Cañon City), situated north of Westcliffe and east of Salida, Antithesis and the Royal Gorge Mansion are perfectly positioned at the mouth of THE Royal Gorge canyon on a pristine historic 4-acre property enclosed by a stunning circa-1880 iron fence with upwards of 80 trees, a historic fountain surrounded by cozy firepits, and beautifully maintained grounds.
Summary
We are seeking a dependable, hardworking, and detail-oriented Dishwasher/Prep Cook to support our culinary team in maintaining a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen while assisting with food preparation. This essential role ensures the highest standards of sanitation are maintained while contributing to the preparation of fresh ingredients that help deliver an exceptional dining experience. The ideal candidate takes pride in their work, thrives in a fast-paced environment, and enjoys being an integral part of a collaborative kitchen team.
Key Responsibilities
Dishwashing & Sanitation
Wash, sanitize, and properly store all dishes, glassware, flatware, cookware, utensils, and kitchen equipment in accordance with health and safety standards.
Maintain cleanliness and organization of dishwashing stations, sinks, floors, drains, and surrounding work areas.
Remove trash and recycling throughout shifts and maintain clean waste disposal areas.
Assist in maintaining a clean and sanitary kitchen, including sweeping, mopping, and routine cleaning tasks.
Ensure all cleaning chemicals are handled and stored safely according to company procedures.
Food Preparation
Prepare ingredients including washing, peeling, chopping, slicing, portioning, and labeling products according to chef specifications.
Assist with basic food preparation for service, banquets, and special events.
Properly rotate food using First-In, First-Out (FIFO) inventory practices.
Store food items safely while maintaining proper temperatures and sanitation standards.
Notify kitchen leadership of low inventory or equipment issues.
Team Support & Kitchen Operations
Work closely with chefs and kitchen staff to ensure smooth daily operations.
Assist with receiving, organizing, and stocking deliveries.
Support opening and closing kitchen procedures.
Maintain a positive attitude while contributing to a respectful and collaborative team environment.
Perform additional duties as assigned to support efficient kitchen operations.
Education/Minimum Requirements
High school diploma or equivalent preferred.
Previous restaurant or food service experience preferred but not required.
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as business demands.
Food Handler Certification or ability to obtain one within required timeframes.
Knowledge
Strong work ethic with the ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.
Excellent attention to cleanliness, organization, and food safety.
Ability to follow recipes, instructions, and sanitation procedures.
Dependable attendance and punctuality.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Preferred
Previous experience in a high-volume or upscale restaurant kitchen.
Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment and safe food handling practices.
Basic knife skills and ingredient preparation experience.
Knowledge of HACCP and health department sanitation standards.
Working Conditions/Essential Job Functions
Ability to stand, walk, bend, and lift throughout extended shifts in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
Environmental exposure to heat, cold, steam, water, cleaning chemicals, and varying kitchen temperatures.
Must be able to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds.
Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment including dish machines, prep equipment, and basic kitchen tools.
Jewelry should be limited and not detract from a professional appearance or interfere with job performance. The following guidelines have been established:
Rings may be worn on no more than two (2) fingers per hand.
Employees may wear a maximum of two (2) pairs of earrings on the ear lobe only, of a style not exceeding 1/2" in diameter or 1" in length.
We love Colorado and we care about our team members and our guests. That's why the Royal Gorge Route Railroad is 100% smoke-free, inside and out. No smoking of any kind is allowed on any Royal Gorge Route Railroad properties or sister properties, including all Railroad property, on the train, at Happy Endings Caboose Cafe, the Royal Gorge Mansion or the Royal Gorge Route Inns. We do not provide additional "smoke breaks" for any staff member beyond what is legally required. In addition, any staff member that smokes on a designated break must not have any scent of smoke on clothing, hair, and/or breath. Any staff member seen smoking or vaping on company-owned property or the train will be subject to immediate termination.
Being a smoke-free environment for guests and a smoke-free workplace for staff ensures we uphold our customer promise—to provide a world-class experience. It also means we uphold our employee promise—to provide a healthy, professional, clean atmosphere where everyone has the opportunity to grow and thrive.