About Company
Basilico Pizza is a beloved neighbourhood gem nestled in the heart of West Point Grey, Vancouver. For over a decade, we have been proudly serving our community with authentic Italian-style pizzas, fresh salads, and delectable pasta dishes, all crafted with passion and the finest ingredients. Our commitment to quality, traditional recipes, and a warm, inviting atmosphere has made us a local favourite. We believe in creating memorable dining experiences for our guests and fostering a supportive, family-like environment for our team members. At Basilico, we’re not just making food; we’re crafting connections and upholding a tradition of culinary excellence. Join our dedicated team and become part of a culinary family that values hard work, dedication, and a love for great food. We pride ourselves on using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients whenever possible, ensuring every dish is a testament to quality and taste. Our small, cohesive team works collaboratively to maintain a high standard of service and culinary artistry, making Basilico Pizza more than just a restaurant – it’s a cornerstone of the West Point Grey dining scene.
Job Description
Are you passionate about food and eager to kickstart your culinary career in a vibrant, supportive kitchen? Basilico Pizza in West Point Grey is seeking an enthusiastic and dedicated Restaurant Prep Cook Trainee to join our growing team. This is an exceptional entry-level opportunity for individuals with little to no prior kitchen experience who are keen to learn the foundational skills of food preparation in a fast-paced restaurant environment. As a Prep Cook Trainee, you will work closely with our experienced chefs and kitchen staff, gaining hands-on experience in all aspects of kitchen operations, from ingredient preparation to maintaining a pristine workspace. You’ll learn about food safety protocols, proper knife skills, precise recipe adherence, efficient station setup, and the dynamic rhythm of a busy restaurant kitchen. We are looking for someone who is reliable, a quick learner, possesses a strong work ethic, and thrives in a team-oriented setting. If you’re ready to roll up your sleeves, embrace new challenges, and contribute to creating delicious meals for our cherished customers, we invite you to apply. This role offers comprehensive on-the-job training and a clear pathway for growth within our culinary team. Come grow with Basilico Pizza and help us continue to deliver exceptional dining experiences to the West Point Grey community. This position is perfect for someone looking to build a career in the culinary arts from the ground up, providing a solid foundation for future professional development.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist experienced kitchen staff with basic food preparation tasks, including washing, peeling, chopping, slicing, and portioning various ingredients (e.g., vegetables, meats, cheeses, dough).
- Learn and accurately follow recipes and preparation instructions for diverse menu items, ensuring consistency and quality.
- Maintain a clean and organized workstation throughout shifts, ensuring all tools, equipment, and surfaces meet stringent hygiene and sanitation standards.
- Support the cooking team by fetching ingredients, retrieving necessary supplies from storage, and ensuring workstations are well-stocked.
- Adhere strictly to all food safety guidelines, health codes, and sanitation procedures to prevent cross-contamination and ensure guest safety.
- Assist with receiving, inspecting, and properly storing food deliveries, practicing FIFO (First-In, First-Out) rotation and accurate inventory management.
- Contribute to general kitchen cleanliness, including washing dishes, pots, and pans, wiping down counters, and sweeping/mopping floors at the end of shifts.
- Communicate effectively and professionally with team members to ensure smooth kitchen operations and timely service.
- Take initiative to learn new skills, ask questions, and adapt to varying kitchen demands and peak service times.
Required Skills
- Enthusiastic and highly eager to learn culinary skills and kitchen operations.
- Ability to follow verbal and written instructions effectively and precisely.
- Strong attention to detail and unwavering commitment to cleanliness and organization.
- Reliable and punctual with a strong work ethic and a positive attitude.
- Ability to work effectively and collaboratively in a fast-paced, high-pressure, team-oriented environment.
- Basic understanding of food hygiene and safety principles is an asset (comprehensive training will be provided).
- Physical stamina to stand for extended periods, perform repetitive tasks, and lift up to 25 lbs comfortably.
Preferred Qualifications
- High school diploma or equivalent education.
- Basic knife skills or a strong willingness and aptitude to learn rapidly and safely.
- Previous experience in a customer service, hospitality, or any team-based role (volunteer or paid) is a plus.
- Food Handler’s Certificate (or willingness to obtain one within the first three months of employment).
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive hourly wage with clear opportunities for skill development and career growth.
- Comprehensive on-the-job training in a professional, authentic Italian kitchen environment.
- Complimentary staff meals provided during shifts.
- Supportive, friendly, and close-knit team environment.
- Opportunity to learn traditional Italian cooking techniques and regional recipes.
- Clear pathway for career advancement within Basilico Pizza's culinary team.
- Experience working with fresh, high-quality ingredients.
How to Apply
If you are ready to embark on an exciting culinary journey and become a valued member of the Basilico Pizza family, we encourage you to apply! Please click on the link below to submit your resume and a brief cover letter outlining why you are interested in this Prep Cook Trainee position, highlighting any relevant experience or passion for food, and what makes you a great fit for our team. We look forward to hearing from you and potentially welcoming you to our kitchen!