The CDP oversees a specific area or station in the kitchen, ensuring that food preparation and service are carried out according to the restaurant or establishment's standards. The CDP works under the guidance of the Sous Chef or Head Chef and is responsible for leading a team of cooks within their section.
Key Responsibilities:
Prepare and cook food to the required standards, ensuring consistency and quality.
Follow recipes and presentation standards.
Ensure the correct use of kitchen equipment and utensils.
Maintain a clean and organized work environment.
Supervise and manage a particular section of the kitchen (e.g., pastry, grill, sauce, vegetables).
Ensure that all ingredients and supplies are stocked and ready for service.
Coordinate with other sections to ensure smooth and efficient kitchen operation.
Train and mentor junior kitchen staff or commis chefs in their section.
Adhere to health and safety standards in the kitchen, including food safety regulations.
Ensure the cleanliness of the kitchen and its equipment.
Maintain the correct storage of food items to prevent contamination.
Collaborate with front-of-house staff to address customer preferences or complaints.
Skills and Qualifications:
Previous experience in a kitchen, ideally in a Chef de Partie or similar role.
Strong knowledge of cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
Excellent time management and organizational skills.
Ability to lead and manage a team effectively.
Good communication skills for coordination with team members and front-of-house staff.
High attention to detail in food preparation, presentation, and cleanliness.
Desired candidate profile
Managing a Specific Kitchen Section:
Oversee one section or station of the kitchen, such as grill, fish, sauce, pastry, or vegetables.
Ensure that the kitchen area is organized, clean, and ready for service, with all necessary ingredients and tools in place.
Prepare and cook dishes to the restaurant’s specifications, ensuring consistency in quality, taste, and presentation.
Food Preparation and Cooking:
Prepare ingredients for dishes, including chopping, slicing, marinating, and assembling components.
Cook food to the appropriate temperature and consistency, ensuring it meets the standards set by the Head Chef or Sous Chef.
Plate and present dishes according to the restaurant’s visual standards and presentation guidelines.
Quality Control:
Ensure that food is prepared and cooked correctly, following recipes, portion control guidelines, and food safety standards.
Maintain the quality and consistency of dishes, ensuring that every plate meets the standards of the restaurant.
Supervising Junior Kitchen Staff:
Supervise and train junior chefs, commis chefs, or kitchen assistants working in your section.
Provide guidance and assistance to junior staff, ensuring that tasks are completed correctly and efficiently.
Help delegate tasks during busy periods, making sure the station runs smoothly.
Maintaining Health and Safety Standards:
Adhere to food safety and hygiene regulations, ensuring that all food is prepared, stored, and served safely.
Keep the kitchen and workstations clean and sanitized, including handling equipment, utensils, and food prep areas.
Monitor and maintain proper storage of ingredients, ensuring that they are kept at the correct temperature and are not contaminated.
Managing Inventory and Ordering:
Keep track of inventory levels in your section, ensuring that ingredients are well-stocked and ordering supplies when needed.
Report shortages, damaged goods, or any issues with inventory to the Sous Chef or Head Chef.
Help with stock rotation and ensure that perishable items are used before they expire.