About the Role
The Prep Cook plays a key role in maintaining organized, clean, and well-stocked prep areas while following standardized recipes and established procedures. This position requires attention to detail, teamwork, and the ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment while supporting the overall success of dining operations. This individual takes appropriate actions to support a diverse workforce and participates in the College’s efforts to build a respectful, inclusive, and welcoming work environment.
Responsibilities
- Prepares assigned menu items to established standards, including hot and cold foods, packaged meals, and ready-to-eat items, following standardized recipes and production methods.
- Maintains compliance with operational standards and Health Department regulations.
- Ensures all work areas are clean, organized, and sanitary at all times.
- Sets up and replenishes food items before and during service, ensuring proper rotation and product quality.
- Performs work safely and efficiently, maintaining organization before, during, and after service.
- Ensures all equipment is in proper working order and that tools are used, maintained, and stored appropriately.
- Communicates operational needs, challenges, and opportunities proactively and effectively.
- Collaborates effectively with a diverse group of colleagues and students to support daily operations.
- Assists with inventory management of storage and supply areas.
- Inspects deliveries for quality and accuracy, reporting discrepancies or deficiencies.
- Communicates product needs through established ordering or reporting channels.
- Supports efforts to minimize waste and loss through proper handling, storage, and usage of products.
- Responsible for understanding and implementing established food safety procedures and allergen prevention protocols.
- Actively support and respond appropriately to individuals with food allergies to ensure a safe dining experience for all community members.
- Apply the knowledge and procedures covered in mandatory training sessions in the course of their daily duties.
Requirements
- High School Diploma or equivalent
- 1-3 years of relevant experience
- Ability to work efficiently in a high-volume, fast-paced kitchen environment.
- Basic knowledge of food preparation, kitchen operations, or willingness to learn.
- Ability to follow standardized recipes, instructions, and food safety procedures.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and consistency.
- Ability to work collaboratively as part of a team.
- Effective communication skills.
- Commitment to working with a diverse and inclusive community.
- Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts.
- Successful completion of required background and/or reference checks
- Successful completion of a pre-employment physical and lift test
Skills
- Food preparation
- Kitchen operations
- Food safety procedures
- Allergen prevention
- Inventory management
- Communication skills
Location
- Amherst, MA
Work Type
- Full-time
- Year-round
Experience Level
- 1-3 years
Education Level
- High School Diploma or equivalent
Salary/Compensations
- $19.98-20.25 per hour
Benefits
- Comprehensive, highly competitive benefits package
About the Company
- Amherst has taken a leadership role among highly selective liberal arts colleges and universities in successfully diversifying the racial, socio-economic, and geographic profile of its student body.
- The College is similarly committed to enriching its educational experience and its culture through the diversity of its faculty, administration and staff.
Equal Opportunity
- Amherst College is committed to an inclusive hiring process and will provide reasonable accommodations for candidates throughout the application and interview process upon request.
- It is unlawful in Massachusetts to require or administer a lie detector test as a condition of employment or continued employment. An employer who violates this law shall be subject to criminal penalties and civil liability.
