Cooks, Fast Food

What this job is

Prepare and cook food in a fast food restaurant with a limited menu. Duties of these cooks are limited to preparation of a few basic items and normally involve operating large-volume single-purpose cooking equipment.

What they do day to day

• Read food order slips or receive verbal instructions as to food required by patron, and prepare and cook food according to instructions.
• Maintain sanitation, health, and safety standards in work areas.
• Clean food preparation areas, cooking surfaces, and utensils.
• Operate large-volume cooking equipment, such as grills, deep-fat fryers, or griddles.
• Take food and drink orders and receive payment from customers.
• Cook the exact number of items ordered by each customer, working on several different orders simultaneously.
• Prepare specialty foods, such as pizzas, fish and chips, sandwiches, or tacos, following specific methods that usually require short preparation time.
• Verify that prepared food meets requirements for quality and quantity.
• Serve orders to customers at windows, counters, or tables.
• Wash, cut, and prepare foods designated for cooking.

Skills and knowledge that matter most

Importance rated by people working in the job (1 = not important, 5 = extremely important).

Education and preparation

Preparation level 2 of 5 — Some preparation. Usually a high school diploma; some previous work experience or training helps.

Typical entry education (BLS): No formal educational credential.

Who this job suits

Based on the Holland (RIASEC) interest profile for this occupation.

Job titles you'll see in postings

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