Cook

Job Purpose

Are you passionate about preparing great food and working as part of a fast-paced team? As a Kitchen Team Member, you’ll help prepare fresh, high-quality menu items that meet or exceed company standards while following proper food safety and handling procedures. In this role, you’ll play an important part in delivering delicious meals quickly and consistently while keeping the kitchen clean, organized, and running smoothly.

Key Responsibilities & Job Functions

Prepare and Cook Quality Menu Items

• Cook food products using grills, broilers, fryers, and ovens according to company recipes and cooking procedures.
• Monitor cooking times and temperatures to ensure food is prepared safely and consistently.
• Transfer cooked products to the appropriate preparation or holding areas while maintaining product quality and food safety standards.
• Toast buns and prepare bread products to support sandwich and meal assembly.

Assemble Orders with Accuracy and Quality

• Assemble sandwiches and other menu items using the correct ingredients and proper portion sizes.
• Add the appropriate condiments and toppings according to company recipes and guest preferences.
• Wrap and package food items neatly to ensure orders are ready for service and presentation meets company standards.

Prepare Ingredients and Manage Food Inventory

• Wash, slice, and prepare fresh produce and other ingredients to support daily food production.
• Temper products and properly label them with discard dates as directed by management.
• Set and communicate food production levels to ensure enough product is available to meet customer demand while minimizing waste.

Maintain Food Quality and Safety

• Monitor product holding times and ensure items are served within approved time limits.
• Discard expired or inferior products to maintain the highest food quality standards.
• Follow all food safety and handling procedures to protect guests and team members.

Maintain a Clean and Organized Kitchen

• Keep all workstations clean, organized, and fully stocked throughout the shift.
• Clean utensils, equipment, preparation surfaces, walls, and floors regularly.
• Help maintain a safe and sanitary kitchen environment at all times.

Support Teamwork and Professionalism

• Work cooperatively with management and fellow team members to keep kitchen operations running smoothly.
• Communicate effectively during busy service periods to support team efficiency.
• Maintain a positive attitude and willingness to assist wherever needed.

Follow Company Standards and Safety Practices

• Ensure personal appearance and uniform meet company standards and reflect professionalism.
• Follow all sanitation, safety, and security policies and procedures.
• Help maintain a safe and welcoming environment for both guests and employees.

What Makes This Role Great

• Work in a fast-paced and supportive team environment
• Learn valuable food preparation and kitchen operations skills
• Help deliver high-quality food that keeps guests coming back
• Opportunities to grow and develop within the company

For 60 years, Hardee's has brought communities together with quality, delicious food. With more than 1,800 restaurants across the U.S., and locations in 14 countries, we are committed to the best tasting food to better serve our guests--From Made From Scratch™ Biscuits and Hand-Breaded Chicken Tenders™.