Cook

Department: Food & Beverage / Kitchen
Location: FastTrax Fort Myers
Reports To: Kitchen Manager, Food & Beverage Manager, Assistant General Manager, or General Manager
Employment Type: Hourly
FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary

The Cook is responsible for preparing food in a safe, sanitary, and controlled manner at FastTrax Fort Myers. This role places primary emphasis on food safety, proper handling procedures, sanitation, and risk prevention while executing menu items to company standards. Cooks are expected to follow all health department regulations, maintain clean and organized workstations, and actively prevent hazards within the kitchen and service areas.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities

Food Safety, Sanitation & Risk Prevention (Primary Responsibility)

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards in compliance with local, state, and federal health regulations.
• Practice proper handwashing, glove use, temperature control, and cross-contamination prevention at all times.
• Monitor food temperatures during storage, preparation, cooking, and holding to ensure safety standards are met.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and hazard-free workstation throughout each shift.
• Identify, report, and immediately address unsafe conditions including spills, grease buildup, damaged equipment, or faulty appliances.
• Properly handle knives, hot surfaces, fryers, and kitchen equipment to prevent injury.

Food Preparation & Kitchen Operations

• Prepare menu items according to company recipes, portion standards, and presentation guidelines.
• Operate kitchen equipment safely, including grills, fryers, ovens, and prep tools.
• Maintain proper food labeling, dating, and storage procedures.
• Assist with prep work, batch cooking, and line setup as assigned.
• Follow opening, mid-shift, and closing kitchen checklists.

Teamwork, Training & Accountability

• Communicate effectively with kitchen staff and service teams to maintain safe and efficient food flow.
• Participate in required food safety, sanitation, and operational training.
• Follow all written SOPs, recipes, and kitchen procedures.
• Promote a culture of accountability, cleanliness, and safety within the kitchen.

Qualifications & Experience

• Previous cooking or food preparation experience preferred.
• Knowledge of basic food safety and sanitation practices required.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Professional appearance and strong attention to detail.

Cleanliness & Kitchen Safety Standards

• Clean and sanitize cooking surfaces, utensils, equipment, and prep areas regularly.
• Dispose of trash, grease, and food waste according to safety and sanitation guidelines.
• Maintain clear walkways and safe floor conditions to prevent slips, trips, and falls.
• Support dishwashing and back-of-house cleanliness as needed.

Physical & Environmental Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods.
• Frequent bending, lifting, reaching, and repetitive motions.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment.