Question
0-2

Prep Cook

3/23/2026

Prep cooks are responsible for preparing and setting up all ingredients and stations for kitchen operations, which includes portioning ingredients, washing, peeling, chopping, and mixing items according to recipes. They must also follow proper food handling and safety procedures, assist with inventory, and maintain clean workstations and equipment.

Working Hours

40 hours/week

Company Size

501-1,000 employees

Language

English

Visa Sponsorship

No

About The Company
Headquartered in Santa Barbara, California, Acme Hospitality develops distinctive restaurants and boutique hotels that transform communities. As a key architect of Santa Barbara's Funk Zone revival, Acme has created seven acclaimed dining concepts including The Lark, Loquita, Lucky Penny, Helena Avenue Bakery, Pearl Social, Santa Barbara Wine Collective and La Paloma Cafe, helping establish the area as a premier Central Coast destination. The company's reach extends to San Juan Capistrano with La Vaquera, a wood-fired, farm-to-table restaurant at River Street Marketplace. In Nevada County, Acme's historic properties—The National Exchange Hotel and Holbrooke Hotel—serve as community focal points with chef-driven restaurants that honor local traditions. Acme specializes in creating authentic, place-based experiences that resonate with both visitors and locals throughout California.
About the Role

Description

Who We Are:

Acme Hospitality owns and operates a collection of highly acclaimed and award-winning food & beverage concepts and boutique hotels throughout California. In addition to a collection of restaurants and hotels, we create hospitality experiences that inspire people, create a sense of camaraderie, and make people happy. 


Mission & Core Values:

Above all else, we are committed to providing our team members with a work environment and experience that we can be proud of. Our Core Values of Delivering Excellence, Embrace Originality, Act with Integrity and Celebrate Community are the essential ingredients for success.


Position Summary:

Prep cooks are responsible for the preparation and set up of all ingredients and stations for kitchen operations. 


Responsibilities:

  • Prepare and portion ingredients according to the recipes and instructions provided by the culinary team.
  • Wash, peel, chop, and dice vegetables, fruits, and other food items.
  • Measure and mix ingredients for recipes, such as marinades, sauces, and dressings.
  • Prepare and assemble ingredients for salads, soups, stews, and other dishes.
  • Assist in the preparation of meat, fish, and poultry by cleaning, cutting, and marinating.
  • Follow proper food handling and safety procedures, including storing ingredients at the correct temperatures, labeling and FIFO.
  • Set up workstations with necessary ingredients, utensils, and equipment before each shift.
  • Assist in inventory management, including monitoring stock levels, reporting shortages, spoilage and organizing storage areas.
  • Keep kitchen equipment and utensils clean and in good condition.
  • Assist in the receiving and inspecting of deliveries, ensuring they meet quality standards.
  • Collaborate with other kitchen staff to ensure efficient workflow and timely service.
  • Adhere to food safety and sanitation regulations, including proper handwashing and wearing appropriate protective gear.
  • Assist in washing all silver, plate wares, pots and pans and cooking utensils for the restaurant.
  • Clean and sanitize work areas, equipment, and utensils to maintain a clean and organized kitchen.
  • Follow instructions and recipes accurately to maintain consistency in flavor and presentation.
  • Perform other duties as assigned by the chef, sous chef, or kitchen leads.

Requirements

Requirements:

  • Previous experience as a Prep Cook or in a similar role is preferred but not always required.
  • Basic knowledge of food preparation techniques and kitchen equipment.
  • Familiarity with proper food handling, storage, product identification and sanitation procedures.
  • Ability to follow recipes and instructions accurately.
  • Basic knife skills and the ability to safely operate kitchen tools and equipment.
  • Physical stamina and dexterity to stand for extended periods, lift heavy pots and pans, and maneuver in a busy kitchen.
  • Flexibility to work in shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
  • Attention to detail and ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment.
  • Basic math skills for portioning and measuring ingredients.
  • Excellent time management and organizational skills.
  • Effective communication and teamwork abilities.
  • Willingness to learn and take direction from the culinary team.
  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations and willingness to adhere to them.
  • Culinary training or relevant certification is a plus but not always required.
  • Current State Food Handler Certification

Job Status:

Non-Exempt


Important Notice:

This job description is not an exclusive or exhaustive list of all job functions that an Acme Hospitality Team Member in this position may be asked to perform from time to time. Based on business needs or Guest service objectives, you may also be asked to perform other duties or tasks in addition to those listed above and will be required to have completed required training associated with the other duties or tasks.

Key Skills
Food PreparationPortion ControlFood SafetyInventory ManagementKnife SkillsSanitationTime ManagementOrganizationTeamworkFollowing Recipes
Categories
Food & BeverageHospitalityTrades
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