Joseph Cariaga
Long Beach
Summary
Culinary professional with extensive experience in recipe development and inventory management. Proven track record of delivering high-quality dishes while enhancing team communication to improve dining experiences. Expertise in optimizing kitchen operations and maintaining high standards of food quality.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Lead Cook
Aramark
Carson
07.2019 - Current
- Led kitchen staff to streamline meal preparation and service delivery.
- Supervised staff in daily kitchen tasks, including ingredient prep, cooking, and cleanup.
- Guided team during meal rushes to maintain smooth workflow in kitchen.
- Monitored quality of all cooked items to maintain high culinary standards.
- Educated new cooks regarding food safety protocols and cooking methods.
- Implemented standard operating procedures for food preparation and storage.
- Worked with management to create new recipes and improve existing menu items.
Senior Chef
Sodexo Food Service
Irvine
01.2018 - 06.2019
- Developed and implemented innovative menu items based on seasonal ingredients.
- Crafted innovative sushi dishes using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.
- Coordinated inventory management to maintain optimal stock levels and reduce waste.
- Executed quality checks on incoming shipments of produce, meats, and dairy products to ensure freshness and quality.
- Monitored kitchen equipment performance, arranging timely maintenance.
- Ensured compliance with health regulations throughout food service operations.
- Managed staff schedules to enhance workflow during peak hours.
- Trained kitchen personnel on culinary techniques, fostering skill development and adherence to high standards.
- Collaborated with clients to tailor catering services for events.
Head Sushi Chef
Benihana Restaurant
Torrance
04.2008 - 01.2019
- Crafted innovative sushi dishes using fresh ingredients and traditional techniques.
- Supervised kitchen staff to maintain high food quality and preparation standards.
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure quality and consistency in food preparation.
- Trained new chefs on sushi preparation and presentation standards.
- Managed inventory and ordering of sushi-grade fish and supplies efficiently.
- Collaborated with front-of-house staff to enhance guest dining experiences.
- Created innovative sushi roll recipes that set offerings apart from competitors.
- Reviewed sales data to pinpoint improvement opportunities and refine product offerings.
Education
Associate of Arts - Culinary
Long Beach City College
Long Beach, CA05-1999
Skills
- Menu planning
- Recipe development
- Culinary creativity
- Food safety compliance
- Inventory management
- Kitchen staff training
- Culinary management
- Company quality standards
- Problem solving
- Effective communication
Timeline
Lead Cook
Aramark
07.2019 - Current
Senior Chef
Sodexo Food Service
01.2018 - 06.2019
Head Sushi Chef
Benihana Restaurant
04.2008 - 01.2019
Associate of Arts - Culinary
Long Beach City College