What is a Short Order Cook?
A short order cook is a culinary professional who prepares meals that can be cooked quickly and efficiently. They work in a variety of fast-paced environments, such as diners, cafes, and coffee shops. Their job requires them to handle multiple orders simultaneously, cook a range of breakfast and lunch items like eggs, sandwiches, and burgers, and ensure food quality and presentation. They're often responsible for managing their own station, from prepping ingredients to cleaning up, all while maintaining a consistent pace.
Typical Education
Most short order cooks learn their skills through on-the-job training, which can last from a few weeks to several months. While a high school diploma or GED is generally preferred, it's not always a strict requirement. A basic food handler's permit or certification, such as a ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification, is often necessary to demonstrate knowledge of food safety and sanitation.
Salary Range in the United States
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for short order cooks was $26,570 in May 2020. The lowest 10 percent earned less than $18,550, and the highest 10 percent earned more than $37,210.
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (May 2020)
Day in the Life
How to Become a Short Order Cook
- Obtain a high school diploma or GED: While not always mandatory, having one can give you a competitive edge.
- Get a food handler's license: Complete the necessary training and exam to obtain this certification, as it's required in many places for anyone who handles food.
- Apply for entry-level positions: Look for jobs as a prep cook, dishwasher, or kitchen helper. This is the most common way to get your foot in the door and learn the basics of a professional kitchen.
- Learn on the job: Pay attention to experienced cooks and practice your skills. Be punctual, reliable, and show a strong work ethic.
- Advance your skills: With experience, you can move up to more complex roles or specialize in specific types of food.
Essential Skills
- Speed and Efficiency: The ability to work quickly and under pressure to get orders out in a timely manner.
- Multitasking: Managing several orders at once, each with different cooking times and requirements.
- Attention to Detail: Ensuring each dish is prepared correctly, plated attractively, and meets all quality and safety standards.
- Stamina: Standing for long periods, lifting heavy items, and working in a hot, fast-paced environment.
- Communication and Teamwork: Coordinating with waitstaff and other kitchen staff to ensure smooth service and accurate orders.
Key Responsibilities
- Take and confirm orders from customers or waitstaff.
- Prepare and cook a variety of short-order items, often on a grill, griddle, or fryer.
- Maintain a clean and sanitary work station, including cleaning equipment and counters.
- Manage inventory and restock ingredients as needed.
- Ensure food safety standards are followed at all times.
- Plate and garnish food before serving it.
Common Interview Questions
- How do you handle the pressure of a busy lunch rush?
- What the interviewer is looking for: They want to see that you can stay calm and organized under pressure. A good answer will mention strategies like prioritizing orders, communicating effectively with the team, and having a systematic approach to your work.
- Describe your experience with food safety and sanitation.
- What the interviewer is looking for: This is a crucial question to ensure you understand the seriousness of health and safety regulations. A strong response will mention your food handler's certification and describe specific procedures you follow, such as proper handwashing, temperature control, and cross-contamination prevention.
- Tell me about a time a customer was unhappy with their food. How did you handle it?
- What the interviewer is looking for: This behavioral question assesses your problem-solving and customer service skills. Use the STAR method to describe a situation where you calmly listened to the complaint, worked with the staff to remake the dish quickly, and ensured the customer was satisfied, even if you didn't interact with them directly.
- What steps do you take to prepare your station before a shift?
- What the interviewer is looking for: They want to know you're proactive and organized. A great answer will outline a process of checking inventory, preparing ingredients (mise en place), ensuring your equipment is clean and working, and making sure your station is fully stocked and ready for service.
- Why do you want to work here, and what type of food do you enjoy cooking the most?
- What the interviewer is looking for: This question gauges your passion and genuine interest in the job. A good answer will show you've done your research on the establishment and connect your personal cooking interests to the restaurant's menu, proving you're a good fit for their specific team.
Questions?
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