Prep and Line Cook Job Descriptions

Guardian Brewing Company creates a welcoming environment where experiences are created by blending quality craft beer, local cider and wine, and freshly made food pairings within a unique brewpub.

About the Positions

The positions of Line Cook and Prep Cook are filled to support the Head Chef and Lead Line Cook in making food to order for guests and assisting with a variety of food preparation and other duties to help maintain the organization and cleanliness of the kitchen. The 22-tap taproom and restaurant will provide 20 Guardian-brewed beers and two taps for guest cider options. While our longer-term plans include a full kitchen, we will initially have a limited menu from our auxiliary kitchen in the meantime. The approximately 2,000 sq. ft. taproom will be open year-round and will include an additional 3,500 sq. ft. of outside patio seating and lawn area that will be used when appropriate. Guardian will have a year-round restaurant with an eclectic menu focusing on local and seasonal ingredients. Depending on the day of the week and time of year, we will serve breakfast, brunch, lunch, snacks, and dinner.

At Guardian Brewing Company, we believe that the restaurant will play a key part in bringing the community together by offering fantastic food options, great craft beer, educational programming, and recreational activities. The Line cook assists the Head Chef to ensure a smooth operation of the kitchen by making sure that the beer and food are of the utmost quality, the kitchen is clean, organized, and that food goes out up to the standard of the establishment and in a timely manner. Line Cooks also assists in ensuring that customers have a positive culinary experience during their visit.

Position Summary

The Line Cooks are responsible for aiding in the organization, coordination of preparation of hot and cold food production, maintenance of quality and/or portion control, and the maintenance of sanitation and safety standards. Under the supervision of the Head Chef and the Lead Line Cook, line cooks help with coordinating food being made and served to customers in a timely manner while maintaining safe food practices.

Enhanced Customer Experience

  • Maintain a welcoming, educational, exciting, and inviting culinary experience, as well as a positive work place

Experience/Skills

  • Knowledge of food quality, nutrition, and sustainable practices
  • Knowledge of beer, the brewing process and/or the brewing industry very beneficial
  • Excellent verbal communication and customer service skills
  • Strong vocal team building skills
  • Punctual, organized, and trustworthy
  • Able to work under pressure while maintaining high standards
  • Clean criminal record

Required Qualifications

  • Must be 21 years or older
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills
  • Strong multitasking skills
  • Strong customer service and management skills
  • Team player with strong leadership skills
  • Able to work 32-40 hours per week
  • Ability to maintain high levels of food quality, consistency, and hygiene
  • Outstanding communication, and organizational skills
  • Excellent work ethic and drive to succeed
  • Able to work flexible hours including working nights, weekends, and holidays to manage and train effectively
  • Must be able to work in a standing position for long periods of time and be able to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Prior experience working in and organizing a kitchen
  • Attention to detail and ability to multi-task
  • Ability to anticipate and proactively address problems in a fast-paced environment
  • Positive attitude
  • Ability to work with a diverse group of people
  • Grace under pressure

Duties and Responsibilities

  • Work closely with the Head Chef and Lead Line Cook
  • Fill in where needed to ensure guest service standards and efficient operations
  • Have a full understanding of food safety and sanitation practices
  • Maintain industry standards of food quality and presentation
  • Follow company rules and regulations
  • Prepare food orders in a timely and organized manner
  • Help the team in preparation of all food items required for service on the line
  • Preparation of all menus and meals (i.e., breakfast, lunch, and dinner – including appetizers, desserts and occasional hot snacks)
  • Ensure guest’s special dietary needs are met
  •  Assist in kitchen clean-up and in general maintenance of all cooking and service items in orderly and sanitary condition according to good health-keeping practices, government regulations and Guardian Brewing Company standards
  • Be available for functions as they arise to ensure that the food is prepared and served as required
  • Comprehensively fulfill our mission of fresh and local food; develop seasonal and sustainable dishes;  assist in creating innovative menus that stimulate customer purchases and loyalty
  • Maintain operational standards, guidelines and objectives 
  • Report any violations to Head Chef and Lead Line Cook
  • Ability to open and close the kitchen many days of the week
  • Assist in maintaining an inventory for all items that need to be re-ordered 
  • Maintain a safe and secure facility environment
  • Comply with all federal, state, county and municipal regulations
  • Fill in where needed to ensure guest service standards are met
  • Assist Chef will manage day-to-day shifts,  food inventories and labor, maintain all safety and sanitation procedures, maintain equipment, and help make sure top-quality food that is always perfectly prepared and presented.
  • Assist with all kitchen functions including preparation and maintenance of quality standards; sanitation and cleanliness
  • Serve as an ambassador for the Guardian Brewing Company Brand
  • This position requires an individual who works under a range of circumstances, including: shift work, weekend work, working with challenging patrons, working in the fast-paced environment of a crowded taproom and kitchen, and working within close proximity of an operating brewery (noise, heavy equipment, odors related to the brewing process)
  • Make sure correct food handling practices are being used at all times
  • Responsible for correct and timely food execution at all times
  • Handle and resolves any food related issues, or complaints from guests or staff
  • Able to work all kitchen stations in the absence of or tardiness of cooks, dishwashers or other kitchen staff members
  • Assist in the closing process of the kitchen
  • Ensure the line is properly stocked and ready for service the following day, and that the dishwashing area is clean and the dish machine is properly cleaned, drained and shut down
  • Be willing to work in any area as needed: line, dish, prep, stocking, etc.
  • Ensure proper rotation and storage of all products
  • Help forecast and order food and supplies
  • Be aware of and adhere to all Guardian principles and operations
  • Follow safety and health procedures prepared by Guardian, Allegan County, and MDHHS

Hours, Compensation, and Benefits

  • 20-40 hours per week, 52 weeks per year
  • Hourly wage based on experience and training ($16-$18 an hour)
  • Opportunity also exists to take gratuities and are encouraged­