Prep Cook

About Us

Dear Mama is a love letter to the women and communities who raised us, and to the spirit of care that holds people together. The cafe and our approach to hospitality is inspired by the generations of women who have collectively shaped us, and the larger village that raised us as native New Yorkers in multigenerational neighborhoods with extended family, neighbors, and chosen kin who taught us what it means to show up, feed people, and lead with love. 

Dear Mama NYC is an all-day cafe located on Columbia University’s Manhattanville Campus, just one block from the 125th stop on the 1 train. The cafe sits inside a glass-walled atrium with an open kitchen, creating a relaxed, sun-filled space where staff and guests feel like a family. 

Job Details

Prep Cooks are the backbone of our kitchen operations. This role is responsible for executing daily prep efficiently, accurately, and to standard so service runs clean and uninterrupted.

Reporting Structure & Authority

This role reports directly to the Executive Chef and Sous Chef and the Owner. Day-to-day supervision may be provided by the Manager on Duty. 

What You’ll Do 

Scope of the Role

Prep Cooks prep all of the food items for the menu on a daily basis according to the assigned prep list.

Responsibilities include:

• Execute daily prep list to standard, on time, and with consistency
• Maintain proper labeling, storage, and rotation of all food items
• Receive and check deliveries to ensure quality and accuracy
• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary workstations at all times
• Support dishwashing and kitchen flow as needed
• Assist with light service support (running food, resetting tables) when required
• Communicate clearly with chefs and teammates to avoid gaps in service

Prep Cooks are scheduled for an early morning shift and are responsible for ensuring the prep list for the cafe is completed in an efficient manner adhering to the Dear Mama standards.

Responsibilities may evolve based on operational needs. Any significant role changes will be communicated in advance and supported with appropriate training.

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Maintain strict adherence to food safety and sanitation standards
• Follow all NYC Department of Health regulations and internal safety procedures
• Support the team in maintaining an A grade inspection standard at all times

Who You Are

• Detail-oriented and takes pride in clean, organized work
• Reliable, consistent, and accountable
• Works well under pressure in a fast-paced environment
• Strong team player with a positive attitude
• Open to feedback and committed to improving

How Success Is Measured 

• Prep lists completed accurately and on time
• Clean, organized, and inspection-ready kitchen at all times
• Consistency in product quality and execution
• Strong communication and reliability within the team
• Ability to support service without disruption

Skills & Qualifications

• Strong knife skills and basic culinary techniques
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation standards
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Comfortable with repetition and consistency in daily prep
• NYC Food Handler’s Certification required
• Culinary school training preferred, not required

Your Expertise & Background 

• At least 1 year of experience as a prep cook in a high-volume kitchen environment
• Collaborative, with strong communication and organizational skills 
• This position requires the ability to stand for extended periods and to move, lift, carry, push, or pull up to 30 pounds during the course of an 8-hour shift. These are considered essential job functions. Reasonable accommodations may be made for individuals with disabilities in accordance with applicable law.

Time Commitment & Compensation Details 

• This role is scheduled for approximately 40-50 hours per week, including weekends and holidays as needed
• Hourly rate is $18.00, in compliance with New York State wage laws. 
• Opportunity for growth as the company expands

Benefits and Perks

• Work alongside a passionate and supportive team 
• Health, dental, and vision benefits are available to employees who average 32 or more hours per week, in accordance with company policy and plan documents.
• 30% discount on food and beverage 

Equal Employment Opportunity

Dear Mama NYC is an equal opportunity employer and does not discriminate on the basis of any protected characteristic under applicable federal, state, or local law.