Pizza Chef

Company Overview:

Step into LaNoma Italian Steakhouse, where the essence of Italy comes alive in every dish. Nestled in the heart of Fort Lee, New Jersey (we are right over George Washington Bridge from Manhattan) our restaurant offers upscale, yet a warm and inviting atmosphere -- perfect for family gatherings, romantic dinners, or a night out with friends.

The Pizza Chef is responsible for preparing and cooking Neapolitan Style pizzas and related menu items according to established recipes, quality standards, and food safety guidelines. All cooks will be responsible for the high-quality preparation, cooking, and/or production of dishes according to the menu and recipe specifications, following instructions relating to the timely preparation of food orders, organizing workstations, and assisting other cooks as needed.  

ESSENTIAL JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

• Prepare pizza dough, sauces, toppings, and other ingredients according to recipes and kitchen standards.
• Assemble and cook pizzas to the appropriate specifications, temperature, and level of doneness.
• Monitor cooking times and oven temperatures to ensure consistent quality.
• Perform work on the pizza station as per business demands. 
• Cook menu items in alignment with the kitchen team to deliver dishes simultaneously at appropriate times. 
• Weigh and measure ingredients; properly use recipes in order to produce dishes up to standard. 
• Prepare and/or produce a variety of high-quality dishes as per guest orders, while following approved recipes & specifications in an accurate and timely manner.
• Maintain a thorough working knowledge of recipes, ingredients, allergens, and food presentation. 
• Ensure that food quality, quantity, freshness, and presentation meet Jean-Georges standards. 
• Maintain department cleanliness and organization, adhere to safe work and equipment practices, and follow all food safety, health, and sanitation standards. 
• Properly store and/or discard leftover food. 
• Set up, stock stations, and replenish kitchen inventory and supplies as needed. 
• Ensure all the products and prepared items are properly labeled, dated, initialed, covered, and rotated following FIFO (first in, first out). 
• Follow all company policies, procedures, and guidelines including being ready to work at scheduled shift, in uniform, as per uniform standards. 
• Perform and complete any other duties and responsibilities given as required in a timely and professional manner. 

KNOWLEDGE, EXPERIENCE AND SKILLS 

• Minimum of two years of related experience; fine dining and high-volume experience required 
• Must have excellent knife skills and be proficient in all aspects of cooking. 
• Demonstrated experience with various cooking methods, ingredients, equipment, and procedures. 
• Have experience with multiple stations in the kitchen. 
• Working knowledge and understanding of health, safety, and sanitation standards 
• Ability to take direction. 
• Ability to follow and execute recipes to designated specifications. 
• Ability to work in a clean, organized, and efficient manner in a high-pressure environment. 
• Excellent attention to detail, time management, and organizational skills. 
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills are conducive to a productive teamwork environment. 
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.  
• Operate ethically to protect the assets and image of the company. 
• Strong work ethic, team player, and customer-focused approach. 
• Ability to work a flexible schedule including days, nights, weekends, and holidays. 
• Must be passionate, entrepreneurial, and dedicated to success. 

 PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS 

• Ability to perform the essential job functions consistently, safely, and successfully with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards, including meeting qualitative and/or quantitative productivity standards. 
• Ability to maintain regular, punctual attendance consistent with the ADA, FMLA, and other federal, state, and local standards. 
• Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs. 
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time. 
• Moving about on foot to accomplish tasks, particularly frequent movements from place to place within the property.
• Bend, lift, carry, reach/extend arms, and hands above shoulder height frequently, or otherwise move in a constantly changing environment.