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If you’ve searched “prep cook job description,” chances are you’ve run into the same thing over and over again: dry bullet points, vague wording, and no real insight into what the job actually looks like—or how to attract someone great to do it.
And here’s the problem: generic job posts don’t excite anyone. They don’t reflect your kitchen’s culture, your standards, or what kind of person thrives in the role. They just describe tasks like “chop vegetables” or “follow food safety guidelines”—and hope for the best.
But here’s the truth:
✅ Great prep cooks are not just people who follow orders.
They’re reliable. Organized. Focused under pressure. They make the entire kitchen run smoother—without ever needing the spotlight.
Yet most job posts don’t show that. They overlook the importance of this role, and in doing so, they fail to attract the right people.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to write a prep cook job description that actually helps you hire better. Whether you’re running a busy restaurant, a catering company, or a fast-paced ghost kitchen, this structure will help you attract team players who care about quality, consistency, and getting the job done right.
Before we dive in, if you haven’t already, check out our full guide on how to write a job post that attracts top talent , Link https://workscreen.io/how-to-write-a-job-post/ It breaks down why generic templates don’t work—and what to do instead.
Don’t let bad hires slow you down.
WorkScreen helps you identify the right people—fast, easy, and stress-free.
What a Prep Cook Actually Does - Their Roles
A prep cook is the backbone of any kitchen.
They’re the ones who arrive early, set the pace, and make sure the kitchen runs like a well-oiled machine. They handle all the behind-the-scenes prep work—washing, chopping, labeling, stocking, organizing—so that when the rush hits, the chefs and line cooks can focus on cooking without delays.
But being a great prep cook isn’t just about following instructions.
It’s about working clean, staying focused, and handling repetitive tasks with consistency and pride. It’s someone who thrives in routines, keeps cool in chaos, and takes food safety seriously. A great prep cook is someone the whole kitchen can count on—even if they’re rarely in the spotlight.
In short: this isn’t just a “starter role.” It’s a foundational one. A great prep cook keeps the whole kitchen calm, clean, and ready for service—day in and day out.
Two Great Prep Cook Job Description Templates
We’ll provide two tailored job description options:
1.✅ Option 1: For employers looking to hire an experienced candidates with prior experience.
2.Option 2: For employers open to hiring entry-level candidates or those willing to train someone with potential.
✅ Option 1: Prep Cook Job Description (For Experienced Candidates)
📌 Job Title: Prep Cook for Il Forno — High-Volume Italian Kitchen (Evening Shifts)
📍 Location: Chicago, IL | In-Person | Full-Time
💵 Pay: $18–$21/hour (Based on experience)
🕒 Schedule: Wed–Sun | 2PM–10PM
🎥 Meet the Team: Watch this quick video from our kitchen lead on what it’s like to work here.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube link here]
👋 Who We Are
Il Forno is a family-owned Italian restaurant located in Chicago’s West Loop. For over a decade, we’ve served scratch-made pasta, rustic wood-fired pizzas, and seasonal dishes inspired by our Southern Italian roots. Our kitchen runs on teamwork, timing, and trust—and behind every smooth service is a prep cook who keeps the line moving. We’re looking for someone dependable, efficient, and proud of doing the unglamorous work that makes a kitchen great.
🔧 What You’ll Do
- Prep vegetables, meats, and sauces following exact recipes
- Set up and label mise en place for each station
- Restock items efficiently and track inventory use
- Maintain cleanliness and food safety standards
- Work closely with line cooks during peak service when needed
👀 What We’re Looking For
- 1+ year experience in a busy kitchen as a prep cook or assistant
- Solid knife skills and knowledge of food handling practices
- Organized, clean, and calm under pressure
- Great communicator and true team player
- Available for evenings and weekend shifts
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- $18–$21/hour based on experience
- Free staff meals every shift
- Two consecutive days off per week
- 50% discount when dining with friends/family
- Opportunity to move into a line cook role within 6 months
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll work with a tight-knit crew that values consistency, precision, and mutual respect
- You’ll be trusted to do meaningful prep work that directly impacts the quality of service
- You’ll have a clear path for growth in a supportive, professional kitchen environment
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to help evaluate candidates fairly—based on actual skills, not just résumés.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
We review every application and respond to all candidates. We’re excited to meet you.
✅ Option 2: Job Description For Entry-Level Prep Cook (Willing to Train)
📌 Job Title: Entry-Level Prep Cook — Join the Kitchen Team at Sunrise Greens Café
📍 Location: Austin, TX | In-Person | Full-Time
💵 Pay: $15–$18/hour
🕒 Schedule: Mon–Fri | 9AM–5PM
🎥 A Day in the Life: Watch this quick video from our head chef, Alex, on how we support new team members.
👉 [Insert Loom or YouTube link here]
👋 About Sunrise Greens
We’re Sunrise Greens Café, a plant-forward restaurant in East Austin focused on locally sourced ingredients, sustainability, and good energy. Our menu is built around scratch cooking, seasonal flavors, and feel-good food you’d be proud to serve your own family. We’re growing fast and looking for an entry-level prep cook who wants to learn the ropes in a positive, no-drama kitchen where doing things right matters.
🔧 What You’ll Do
- Prep fresh ingredients: wash, peel, chop, and portion
- Label and organize storage daily
- Support dishwashing and closing duties
- Assist with basic cooking tasks as you grow
- Follow checklists to help keep the kitchen clean and smooth
👀 Who You Are
- You don’t need kitchen experience—we’ll train you
- You take pride in doing a job well
- You show up ready, focused, and eager to help
- You’re calm, friendly, and team-oriented
- You want a job where you can grow, not just get by
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Starting pay: $15–$18/hour
- Paid training
- Free shift meals + daily smoothie
- No nights or weekends required
- Wellness stipend after 60 days
- Monthly team lunches and appreciation perks
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
- You’ll join a welcoming kitchen that values people over pressure
- You’ll learn real culinary skills in a safe, low-stress environment
- You’ll be part of a team that believes in lifting each other up
- You’ll grow your career—even if you’re just getting started
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to make the application process clear and fair.
Click below to apply and complete a short skills-based evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
We respect your time and will keep you informed at every step.
Hiring doesn’t have to be hard.
If your hiring process is stressful, slow, or filled with second-guessing—WorkScreen fixes that. Workscreen helps you quickly identify top talent fast, eliminate low-quality applicants, and make better hires without the headaches.
Why These Prep Cook Job Posts Actually Work
Both job descriptions are designed to attract real people—not just check boxes. Here’s a breakdown of what makes them effective:
✅ 1. The Job Titles Are Clear and Purpose-Driven
- Good Example: Prep Cook for Il Forno — High-Volume Italian Kitchen (Evening Shifts)
- Why it works: It tells you the exact role, the company, and what kind of environment to expect (fast-paced, evening shifts). That clarity filters in the right applicants and sets expectations upfront.
- Good Example: Entry-Level Prep Cook — Join the Kitchen Team at Sunrise Greens Café
- Why it works: It’s welcoming and signals that the company is open to training. The phrase “join the kitchen team” adds a sense of community.
✅ 2. The Intros Provide Context and Mission
- Instead of jumping straight into tasks, both job posts begin with a human-centered intro about the company and why this role matters.
- At Il Forno, the prep cook is the unsung hero who keeps service moving.
- At Sunrise Greens, the role is about growth, support, and purpose-driven food.
→ These intros instantly help candidates connect emotionally.
✅ 3. There’s a Video Element to Build Trust
- A Loom or YouTube video from the kitchen lead or chef adds a human face to the job post.
- It makes the workplace feel real and gives applicants a glimpse into the team they might join.
→ This is especially powerful for frontline roles, where culture and vibe really matter.
✅ 4. The Responsibilities Are Written Like Real Tasks, Not Buzzwords
- “Prep vegetables, meats, and sauces following exact recipes” paints a clearer picture than “assist in food preparation.”
- “Keep mise en place ready for service” shows understanding of real kitchen workflow.
→ This not only makes the post more readable, it also filters out candidates who aren’t familiar with the pace and detail required.
✅ 5. They’re Transparent About Pay and Perks
- Both job posts include a pay range upfront—a huge trust-builder.
- Perks are specific and relevant: free shift meals, consistent schedules, wellness stipends, etc.
→ Transparent compensation signals respect, which top candidates value.
✅ 6. Culture Isn’t Claimed—It’s Shown
- Il Forno highlights trust, timing, and mutual respect in a high-volume environment.
- Sunrise Greens emphasizes calm, positive energy, and no-drama kitchens.
→ Instead of saying “we value teamwork,” they show how the kitchen actually feels.
✅ 7. They Use a Respectful, Human Tone Throughout
- “We’re excited to meet you” and “We review every application” signal that the candidate’s time and effort will be respected.
- The tone is clear, direct, and friendly—no corporate-speak or generic HR language.
✅ 8. The Application Process Is Clear and Fair
- Both job descriptions explain that they use io for skills-based evaluation.
This tells applicants: We care more about what you can do than what your résumé says.
→ It levels the playing field and helps filter for people who are genuinely engaged.
Example of a Bad Prep Cook Job Description (And Why it Fails)
Job Title: Kitchen Helper
Company: Local Restaurant Group
Location: Downtown
Job Type: Full-Time
Job Summary:
We are looking for a kitchen helper to support day-to-day back-of-house operations. The ideal candidate should be able to work in a fast-paced environment, follow instructions, and maintain cleanliness.
Responsibilities:
- Assist kitchen staff with basic food prep
- Maintain a clean and organized work area
- Follow food safety regulations
Requirements:
- High school diploma preferred
- Ability to work under pressure
- Prior kitchen experience a plus
How to Apply:
Send your CV to apply@localrestaurantgroup.com. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
🚫 Why This Job Post Falls Short
1. The Title Is Vague and Uninspired
- “Kitchen Helper” sounds like an afterthought.
- There’s no indication of the company, type of food, or what makes this role worth considering.
2. The Company Description Is Nonexistent
- No context. No story. No mention of mission, kitchen culture, or team values.
→ It feels like the company doesn’t care, so why should a great candidate?
3. The Introduction Feels Cold and Generic
- “We are looking for a kitchen helper…” is a flat, robotic opener.
- There’s nothing here to make someone feel excited or even curious.
4. No Salary or Benefits Mentioned
- This makes the post feel outdated and discourages serious applicants.
→ If you’re not willing to be transparent, top candidates will assume the worst.
5. The Responsibilities Are Broad and Boring
- “Assist kitchen staff” is vague and could mean anything.
- No real insight into what the prep flow looks like or what success in the role means.
6. The Hiring Process Feels Dismissive
- “Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted” sends a cold message.
→ It tells applicants their time isn’t valued—and that they probably won’t hear back.
7. The Call to Action Is Flat and Forgettable
- “Send your CV” doesn’t guide the candidate or explain what happens next.
- No effort to motivate the reader or make the process inviting.
Bonus Tips to Make Your Prep Cook Job Post Stand Out
Most job descriptions fail not because they’re wrong—but because they’re forgettable. If you want to attract great applicants (and avoid wasting time on the wrong ones), here are a few advanced but easy-to-implement tips that can transform your post:
🛑 1. Add a Security Notice to Build Trust
Reassure applicants that your process is safe, professional, and scam-free.
Example:
“We take the security and privacy of all applicants seriously. We will never request payment, financial information, or personal documents during the hiring process.”
This simple sentence builds confidence—especially in a job market where candidates are increasingly wary of online scams.
🌴 2. Mention Time Off or Flex Days
Work matters—but so does rest. Mentioning any time-off policy or schedule flexibility helps your offer stand out.
Example:
“Enjoy up to 24 paid flex days per year so you can recharge and come back stronger.”
Even part-time or hourly jobs can feel more appealing when you show respect for work-life balance.
🎓 3. Highlight Training & Growth Opportunities
Many prep cooks are early in their careers—and they care about what comes next. If you offer on-the-job training, mentorship, or clear paths to grow, say so.
Example:
“We promote from within and provide on-the-job training to help you move into line cook, catering, or kitchen leadership roles over time.”
This shows you’re investing in people—not just filling roles.
🎥 4. Include a Video From the Hiring Manager or Team
A quick Loom or YouTube video is one of the easiest ways to humanize your post and increase trust. It helps candidates see the team they might join—and it makes your company instantly more relatable.
Use a short 1–2 minute video from your kitchen lead explaining:
- What it’s like to work in your kitchen
- What kind of team culture you have
- What you’re looking for in a great candidate
Even casual smartphone videos work—it doesn’t need to be polished, just authentic.
Here is an example that we used in our master guide on how to write a great job post description , you can check it out here https://www.loom.com/share/ba401b65b7f943b68a91fc6b04a62ad4
🧠 5. Clarify the Candidate Experience
Most job seekers feel like they’re applying into a black hole. Stand out by sharing what they can expect once they click “apply.”
Example:
“We review every application and reply to all candidates. If shortlisted, you’ll be invited to a skills-based evaluation, followed by a short interview.”
Clear steps reduce anxiety and increase applicant trust.
Should You Use AI to Write a Prep Cook Job Description?
The short answer: Yes—but not blindly.
AI tools can help you save time, organize your thoughts, and polish your writing. But if you just say, “Write me a prep cook job description,” you’ll end up with a bland, soulless post that looks like every other one online.
And here’s why that’s a problem:
🚫 Why You Shouldn’t Rely on AI Alone
If you use AI with no context or input, here’s what usually happens:
- You get a generic list of tasks that could apply to any kitchen, anywhere.
- There’s no sense of your culture, team, or what makes your restaurant different.
- It fails to connect with real candidates who care about more than just chopping onions.
In short: AI without intention leads to generic, forgettable job posts.
✅ The Right Way to Use AI: Give It Direction
AI is most powerful when you guide it.
Before you prompt it, give it real context. Things like:
- What your restaurant does and what kind of food you serve
- What your kitchen culture is like (fast-paced? calm? collaborative?)
- What the role actually involves—day to day
- What kind of person you’re looking for
- Your perks, pay, and hiring process
🔧 Try This AI Prompt Instead:
“Help me write a prep cook job post for our restaurant, Il Forno, in Chicago. We’re a high-volume Italian kitchen that values speed, precision, and consistency. We’re hiring someone with at least 1 year of experience who thrives in fast-paced environments and wants to grow into a line cook. We offer $18–$21/hour, free staff meals, and promote from within. We use a skills-based hiring platform (WorkScreen.io), and every candidate gets a fair shot. Here’s what I want the tone to sound like: human, direct, and respectful. Here’s a quick draft I’ve written you can build on [paste notes here]…”
Then paste in your notes, and let the AI help you refine and clean it up.
🛠️ AI Should Polish Your Voice—Not Replace It
Think of AI as your sous chef—not the head chef.
You bring the ingredients (your real culture, role needs, values). AI helps mix and plate them in a clean, organized way. When used like that, AI can be a game-changer—not a shortcut that costs you great hires.
Build a winning team—without the hiring headache.
WorkScreen helps you hire fast, confidently, and without second-guessing.
Need a Quick Copy-Paste Job Description?
We get it—sometimes you just need something fast.
Maybe you’ve already read through this guide and understand what makes a great job post. But you also want a starting point you can copy, paste, and tailor to your own kitchen without starting from scratch.
That’s what this section is for.
✏️ Important Reminder:
Don’t copy this word-for-word and expect magic.
This is a foundation, not a final draft.
Add a Loom video, inject your team culture, and edit the details to reflect your actual company.
In this section, you’ll find two ready-to-use job description templates for quick copy-paste use — but please remember, like we mentioned above, don’t just copy them word-for-word and expect results.
Think of these as starting points, not final drafts.
- Option 1: A more conversational, culture-first job description that highlights personality and team fit.
- Option 2: A more structured format, including a Job Brief, Responsibilities, and Requirements for a traditional approach.
✅ Option 1: Conversational, Culture-First Prep Cook Template
📌 Job Title: Prep Cook at [Insert Restaurant Name] — Join a Kitchen That Runs on Teamwork
📍 Location: [Insert Location] | In-Person | Full-Time
💵 Pay: [$XX–$XX/hour]
🕒 Schedule: [Insert days + shifts]
🎥 Meet the Team: [Insert optional video link]
👋 Who We Are
We’re [Insert Restaurant Name], a [type of cuisine or theme] kitchen in [City/Neighborhood]. Our focus is on [e.g. fresh, scratch-made meals / high-volume service / seasonal menus]. Behind every smooth service is a prep cook who keeps the team on track—and we’re looking for someone who takes pride in that role.
🔧 What You’ll Do
- Prep vegetables, proteins, sauces, and more according to spec
- Keep your station clean, labeled, and stocked
- Support dishwashing and cleanup as needed
- Assist line cooks during rush hours
- Follow food safety protocols at all times
👀 What We’re Looking For
- 1+ year experience in a fast-paced kitchen preferred (but not required)
- Reliable, detail-oriented, and calm under pressure
- Able to work well on a team and follow direction
- Great attitude and strong work ethic
🎁 Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly pay
- Free shift meals
- Flexible schedule options
- Opportunity to grow into a line cook or kitchen lead
- Consistent hours and respectful team environment
🌟 Why This Role Is a Great Fit
You’ll be trusted with meaningful prep work that sets the tone for the entire kitchen.
You’ll work with a team that values effort, consistency, and good energy.
You’ll be part of a place that sees you—not just your station.
📥 How to Apply
We use WorkScreen.io to keep our hiring process fair and simple.
Click below to apply and complete a short skills-based evaluation:
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
We reply to every application and look forward to hearing from you!
🧱 Option 2: Structured Job Brief Format (Classic ATS Style)
Job Title: Prep Cook
Company: [Insert Company Name]
Location: [Insert Location]
Type: Full-Time | In-Person
Pay: [$XX–$XX/hour]
🎥 Meet the Team: [Insert optional video link]
Job Summary:
[Insert Company Name] is hiring a Prep Cook to support our kitchen team in day-to-day operations. You’ll be responsible for ingredient preparation, station setup, and supporting line cooks during service. This is a hands-on, fast-paced role that requires organization, consistency, and teamwork.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prep and portion ingredients to standard
- Maintain cleanliness and organization in the prep area
- Assist with kitchen cleaning duties
- Restock and rotate supplies
- Follow food safety and sanitation standards
Qualifications:
- 6+ months experience in a kitchen environment preferred
- Strong communication and multitasking skills
- Team-oriented and dependable
- Able to work standing for extended periods and lift 25+ lbs
Benefits:
- Competitive pay
- Shift meals provided
- Flexible scheduling
- Internal promotion opportunities
How to Apply:
Apply through our WorkScreen link below and complete a brief evaluation.
👉 [Insert WorkScreen application link]
We review every application and follow up with all candidates.
What Happens After You Post Your Job? Let WorkScreen Handle the Next Phase
Let WorkScreen handle the next phase for you.
Once your job post is live, the real challenge begins: sorting through applications, spotting who’s serious, and figuring out who actually has the skills to succeed in your kitchen.
That’s where WorkScreen.io comes in.
✅ Here’s How WorkScreen Helps You Hire Smarter
🔍 Quickly Identify Your Best Candidates
WorkScreen automatically evaluates, scores, and ranks applicants on a performance-based leaderboard—making it easy to spot top talent, save time, and make smarter, data-driven hiring decisions.
🧪 Easily Send One-Click Skill Tests
With WorkScreen, you can administer one-click skill tests to assess candidates based on real-world ability—not just credentials like résumés and past experience. This helps you hire more confidently and holistically.
🧼 Filter Out Low-Effort Applicants
WorkScreen automatically eliminates low-effort applicants who use AI Tools to apply, copy-paste answers, or rely on “one-click apply.” This way, you focus only on genuine, committed, and high-quality candidates—helping you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
🛠️ The Bottom Line: Less Noise. More Qualified Applicants.
👉 Sign up today,
Whether you’re hiring one prep cook or a full kitchen crew, WorkScreen saves you time and helps you avoid costly hiring mistakes.
create a job post in minutes, and let WorkScreen handle the heavy lifting—so you can focus on running a great kitchen.
Prep Cook Job Description - Frequently Asked Questions
While technical skills like knife handling and food safety are important, the most reliable prep cooks have strong soft skills too. Look for:
- Consistency: Can they follow prep procedures exactly the same way every time?
- Focus under pressure: Kitchens get chaotic—can they stay calm and efficient?
- Time management: Prepping the line isn’t just about doing things right, but doing them fast and in sequence.
- Cleanliness and organization: A tidy prep station says a lot about a cook’s discipline.
- Team orientation: Prep cooks support the flow of the kitchen—they must collaborate well without needing constant direction.
According to data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics and Glassdoor:
- The average hourly wage for a prep cook in the U.S. ranges from $14 to $17/hour, depending on location, experience, and type of kitchen.
- In higher-cost areas or specialized kitchens (e.g., upscale restaurants), pay can reach $18–$22/hour or more.
Offering transparent compensation helps attract more serious and qualified applicants—especially in competitive markets.
Yes—as long as you’re hiring for potential and have a structured training process.
Look for candidates who show:
- Reliability and punctuality
- Willingness to learn
- Strong work ethic
- Comfort with repetition and structure
For entry-level roles, it’s often better to hire someone with a great attitude and train them your way.
- Prep Cooks focus on ingredient prep before service: chopping, portioning, labeling, etc.
- Line Cooks assemble and cook dishes during service on the line (grill, sauté, fry stations, etc.).
That said, in smaller kitchens, the roles may overlap—so prep cooks who show consistency and hustle often get promoted into line roles.
