Production Cook

Position: Production Cook

About Saba:

Saba, meaning 'Grandfather' in Hebrew, is the flagship restaurant of Pomegranate Hospitality, located in the vibrant Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans. Saba is more than just a dining experience; it is a journey through the rich culinary landscape of Israel, guided by the heritage and personal stories of Chef Alon Shaya. At Saba, we draw inspiration from the diverse influences of the Middle East, Europe, and North Africa, offering our guests a unique taste of this ever-evolving cuisine. From the moment our guests step in, they are immersed in the warmth of our wood-fired pita bread, baked just steps from their table, and the bold flavors of dishes that celebrate the rich culinary traditions of Bulgaria, Yemen, Syria, Morocco, Turkey, Palestine, and Greece.

At Saba, we are committed to sourcing the freshest seafood, meats, and produce from local farms around New Orleans, LA. These ingredients are transformed into family-style platters that are both comforting and innovative, served in a setting that reflects our deep respect for the cultural intersections that have shaped our menu.

Our Mission & Core Values:

At Saba, we believe in creating a space where everyone feels welcomed, respected, and fulfilled, both professionally and personally. Our mission is to foster an environment where love, mutual respect, and a commitment to equality are at the forefront of everything we do. We stand up for our values, ensuring that our restaurant is a place where all people, regardless of their background, can come together and feel at home.

Our core values guide everything we do and are the foundation of our commitment to creating a welcoming and supportive environment for both our team and our guests. We believe in the power of education and strive to continuously learn and grow. Respect is at the heart of our interactions, ensuring that everyone we encounter feels valued and appreciated. We are committed to fairness in all our practices, treating everyone with equity and integrity. Empowerment is key to our success, as we encourage and support each other to reach our fullest potential. We pride ourselves on being reliable, consistently delivering on our promises and maintaining the highest standards. Passion drives us, fueling our dedication to the craft of hospitality and inspiring us to create memorable experiences. Communication is essential to our teamwork, fostering clear, honest, and open exchanges that keep our operations running smoothly. Finally, we maintain a positive attitude, approaching every challenge with optimism and a can-do spirit, creating an environment where happiness and fulfillment thrive.

Job Overview:

The Production Cook at Saba is responsible for handling all prep work in the morning, ensuring that the kitchen is well-prepared for the day’s service. This role involves preparing ingredients, following recipes, and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and organization in the kitchen. The Production Cook plays a key role in ensuring that the kitchen operates smoothly and efficiently, providing essential support to the line cooks and other kitchen staff.

Key Responsibilities:

• Morning Prep Work:
• Prepare ingredients according to Saba’s recipes and standards, including chopping, measuring, and portioning.
• Set up and stock stations with necessary supplies, ensuring that all prep work is completed before the kitchen opens for service.
• Follow recipes accurately to ensure consistency in the quality of food prepared.
• Quality Control:
• Inspect ingredients and prepared items to ensure they meet Saba’s high standards for quality and freshness.
• Properly label and store prepped items to maintain freshness and organization.
• Kitchen Support:
• Assist line cooks and other kitchen staff by providing prepped ingredients and supporting them during service as needed.
• Communicate effectively with the kitchen team to ensure smooth operations.
• Safety and Sanitation:
• Follow all health, safety, and sanitation guidelines, including proper handling and storage of ingredients.
• Maintain a clean and organized work environment, including regular cleaning of prep areas and equipment.
• Inventory Management:
• Monitor inventory levels of ingredients and supplies, communicating any shortages to the Sous Chef or Executive Chef.
• Assist with receiving and storing deliveries as needed.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in a prep cook or similar role in a fast-paced kitchen environment is preferred.
• Strong understanding of food preparation techniques and kitchen equipment.
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks efficiently.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, with strong communication skills.
• Flexibility to work early morning shifts, including weekends and holidays.

Physical Requirements:

• Standing for extended periods, often for the entire shift.
• Lifting and carrying items such as large bags of ingredients, trays, and kitchen equipment weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Bending, reaching, and stooping to perform tasks around the kitchen.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment with exposure to heat, cold, and humidity.

Joining the Saba team means becoming part of a family that is passionate about food, culture, and creating memorable experiences for our guests. If you share our values and are excited to contribute to a dynamic and supportive team, we invite you to apply and be a part of our story.