Prep Cook / Line Cook – Grocery Store Deli Department

Primary Role:

Assist in daily food preparation and cooking for the deli department, ensuring fresh, high-quality menu items are ready for customers. Maintain cleanliness, food safety, and efficiency in a fast-paced grocery store environment.

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Key Duties & Responsibilities

Food Preparation & Cooking

Prepare ingredients for salads, sandwiches, hot meals, and grab-and-go items following store recipes and portion standards.

Cook and assemble deli items such as rotisserie chicken, hot entrées, soups, and side dishes.

Slice meats and cheeses to proper thickness using deli slicers safely and accurately.

Package prepared foods neatly, label correctly, and stock the deli case for sale.

Rotate stock (FIFO) to ensure freshness and reduce waste.

Quality & Food Safety

Follow all food safety, sanitation, and temperature control standards (ServSafe, local health codes).

Keep prep tables, equipment, and storage areas clean and sanitized throughout the shift.

Monitor food quality, freshness, and appearance—discard or report any items not meeting standards.

Accurately record food temperatures, prep times, and cleaning logs as required.

Customer Service & Teamwork

Assist deli clerks and counter staff during busy times by replenishing prepared items.

Communicate clearly with team members about daily prep lists, shortages, and special orders.

Provide friendly, helpful service when interacting with customers at the deli counter or hot bar.

Work collaboratively to maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked deli department.

Inventory & Equipment

Receive, inspect, and properly store deli and kitchen deliveries.

Maintain and clean cooking equipment such as ovens, fryers, slicers, and warmers.

Assist in tracking inventory, reporting low stock items, and minimizing waste.

Other Duties

Follow store policies, dress code, and safety procedures.

Support deli manager or lead cook with special orders, catering trays, and holiday meal prep.

Perform opening and closing duties, including cleanup and restocking.