Ruben Virgen
Solvang
Summary
Hardworking, bringing detail-oriented approach to food preparation and handling. Reliable individual possessing excellent communication and problem-solving strengths. Organized and motivated employee eager to apply time management and organizational skills in various environments. Seeking entry-level opportunities to expand skills while facilitating company growth.
Experienced with preparing and cooking variety of dishes in fast-paced kitchen environment. Utilizes effective time management and multitasking skills to ensure efficient meal preparation. Knowledge of maintaining food safety standards and creating collaborative team atmosphere.
Overview
10
10
years of professional experience
Work History
Line Cook/Meat Department Clerk/Grocery Stocker
New Frontiers Natural Marketplace
09.2022 - 10.2025
- Prepared and cooked diverse menu items following health and safety regulations.
- Collaborated with team to ensure timely food service during peak hours.
- Organized stock displays to enhance product visibility and accessibility.
- Implemented efficient stocking methods, improving overall workflow in the store.
- Monitored expiration dates and managed product rotation to minimize waste.
- Checked food temperature regularly to verify proper cooking and safety.
- Grilled meats and seafood to customer specifications.
- Increased repeat customer numbers with consistent high-quality meal preparation.
- Managed inventory levels to ensure product freshness and availability.
- Assisted customers with product selection and prepared special orders.
- Operated slicing and packaging equipment for meat processing.
- Conducted quality checks to maintain high standards of meat products.
- Packaged meat products securely using appropriate wrapping materials to ensure freshness during transport home from store by customers.
- Followed proper safety, handling, and cross-contamination procedures.
- Utilized sharp knives and other cutting tools safely while maintaining a clean work area for optimal productivity.
- Developed a comprehensive understanding of various cuts of meat, enabling accurate recommendations to customers based on their preferences.
- Trained new staff members on proper sanitation procedures, cutting techniques, and customer service skills, resulting in an efficient and cohesive team environment.
- Unloaded merchandise and stocked cases with new merchandise.
Lead Line Cook/Manager
Tower Pizza
07.2015 - 08.2022
- Kept stations stocked and ready for use to maximize productivity.
- Restocked food items throughout shift to prepare necessary ingredients for cooking and timely service.
- Retained consistent quality and high accuracy when preparing identical dishes every day.
- Improved employee performance by providing constructive suggestions and encouragement.
- Prepared sandwiches, specialty items and custom orders to meet guest requests.
- Modified standard recipes to address customer requests for substitutions or allergen concerns.
- Set up workstations with needed ingredients, utensils and cooking equipment.
- Followed proper food handling methods and maintained correct temperature of food products.
- Supervised staff, ensuring adherence to food safety and sanitation standards.
Education
High School Diploma -
Lompoc High School
Lompoc, CA06.2014
Skills
- Food Processing
- Spoilage Prevention
- Plating and Presentation
- Kitchen Organization
- Preparing Specialty Food
- Coffee and Tea Service
- Stocking and Replenishing
- Cleaning and Sanitizing
- Food and Beverage Service
- Safe Food Handling
- ServSafe Certified
- Time management
- Attention to detail
- Highly motivated
- Cleaning and organization
- Customer service
- Reliable and trustworthy
- Food preparation
- Knife skills
- Kitchen sanitation
- Stock rotation
- Equipment maintenance
Education and Training
other
Timeline
Line Cook/Meat Department Clerk/Grocery Stocker
New Frontiers Natural Marketplace
09.2022 - 10.2025
Lead Line Cook/Manager
Tower Pizza
07.2015 - 08.2022
High School Diploma -
Lompoc High School