Pantry Cook Job Description Template

Use this Pantry Cook job description template to advertise the open roles for free using Longlist.io. You can use this template as a starting point, modify the requirements according the needs of your organization or the client you are hiring for.

Job Brief

We are looking for a Pantry Cook to join our kitchen staff and be in charge of cold food items on our menu.

Pantry Cook responsibilities include preparing various hors d’oeuvres, properly seasoning all appetizers before they are served and storing food items, as needed. To be successful in this role, you should be able to handle the kitchen’s fast-paced working environment, be familiar with food hygiene and be available to work during evenings and weekends.

Ultimately, you will contribute to delivering a pleasant dining experience for our guests.

Responsibilities

  • Make cold appetizers, including salads, vegetable and meat roll-ups and bruschettas
  • Garnish dishes with spices, nuts, fruit and vegetables
  • Prepare vinaigrettes, dips and herb-infused oils
  • Perform meal-prep activities before guests arrive (like chopping vegetables, cutting fish and meat and washing fruits)
  • Store ingredients to keep them fresh and reduce food wastage
  • Check food plating, temperature and portions for all cold dishes
  • Sterilize kitchen equipment at the end of your shift
  • Monitor stock and place orders, as needed
  • Recommend modern recipes to renew our menu and add nutritious, creative cold dishes
  • Maintain a clean station at all times

Requirements

  • Work experience as a Pantry Cook, Prep Cook or similar role
  • Hands-on experience with professional kitchen equipment
  • Good knowledge of food plating techniques
  • Understanding of health and safety rules in a kitchen
  • Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment
  • Team spirit
  • Availability to work in shifts, including evenings and weekends
  • A degree from a culinary school is a plus

What does Pantry Cook do?

A pantry cook is responsible for preparing and organizing cold food items in a professional kitchen setting. On a day-to-day basis, a pantry cook typically performs the following tasks:

  1. Preparation: The cook will prepare cold food items such as salads, sandwiches, appetizers, and desserts. This involves chopping vegetables, slicing meats and cheeses, and assembling different components of the dishes.

  2. Storage and Organization: Pantry cooks are responsible for maintaining the cleanliness and organization of the pantry area. This includes labeling and dating ingredients, rotating stock, and ensuring food safety guidelines are followed.

  3. Inventory Management: The cook may be responsible for monitoring pantry supplies and informing the kitchen manager or chef when ingredients need to be replenished. They may also assist with placing orders and receiving deliveries.

  4. Plating and Presentation: Pantry cooks often play a crucial role in plating dishes before they are served to guests. They ensure that each dish is visually appealing and presented in an appetizing manner.

  5. Collaboration: Pantry cooks work closely with other members of the kitchen staff, including line cooks, sous chefs, and chefs de cuisine. They coordinate with the kitchen team to ensure smooth workflow and timely service.

  6. Cleanliness and Sanitation: Pantry cooks must adhere to strict cleanliness and sanitation standards. They are responsible for regularly cleaning and sanitizing equipment, surfaces, and utensils used in the pantry.

  7. Creativity: Depending on the establishment, pantry cooks may have the opportunity to contribute to menu development and bring their own ideas for new dishes and flavors to the table.

Overall, the role of a pantry cook is to contribute to the successful operation of the kitchen by efficiently preparing and presenting cold food items, ensuring a high standard of quality and cleanliness.