Prep Cook

OVERVIEW 

Little Mountain reflects Montecito’s coastal culture through a wood-fired kitchen that highlights the region’s seasonal bounty. Rooted in Santa Barbara County’s abundance, we collaborate with local farmers, ranchers, and fishermen to source organic and biodynamic ingredients, enhancing their natural qualities through traditional techniques. Our hospitality extends to a warm, home-like setting inspired by Spanish Colonial design, complemented by a thoughtful beverage program featuring high-quality, small-producer spirits. Whether for a casual evening or a festive gathering, we welcome our Upper Village community with inviting, intentional hospitality. 

JOB SUMMARY

Little Mountain is looking for skilled and detail-oriented Prep Cooks to join our opening culinary team. Prep Cooks are the foundation of a well-executed service, responsible for ingredient preparation, organization, and assisting the team in creating an exceptional dining experience. This role is perfect for culinary professionals eager to grow their skills in a high-performance kitchen.

WHAT YOU WILL DO 

• Execute detailed ingredient preparation, including chopping, peeling, marinating, and blanching, ensuring consistency and precision for all components of the menu.
• Organize and maintain mise en place to support multiple stations, replenishing supplies and ingredients throughout the shift as needed.
• Follow recipes and preparation guidelines accurately, adhering to Little Mountain’s high standards for quality and consistency.
• Assist in the preparation of sauces, stocks, and other foundational elements for service.
• Properly label, date, and store prepped ingredients to maintain freshness and compliance with California health and safety standards.
• Communicate effectively with Line Cooks and Sous Chefs to anticipate needs and adjust preparation quantities based on service demands.
• Assist with receiving deliveries, inspecting quality, and storing ingredients in the correct areas.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitized prep area throughout the shift, following all sanitation and safety protocols.
• Participate in kitchen meetings, tastings, and training sessions to stay informed about menu updates and expectations.
• Support the culinary team during service by providing additional assistance to stations as needed.

WHO YOU ARE

• A passionate and motivated culinary professional with a strong attention to detail.
• Efficient, organized, and capable of multitasking in a fast-paced environment.
• Eager to learn and grow your skills, with a commitment to excellence.
• A reliable and collaborative team player who values communication and support.

HEALTH & SAFETY 

• California Food Handler’s Certification; ensure compliance with all health and safety standards, including food safety, sanitation, and workplace hygiene, in line with California Department of Health guidelines.
• Maintain proper handling and storage of all food products. 

EXPERIENCE 

• Minimum 2 years of experience in fine dining kitchens or high-caliber culinary environments preferred.
• Strong knife skills and a thorough understanding of cooking techniques.

WORK ENVIRONMENT

• Involves standing and walking the entire shift.
• Requires using hands to perform daily tasks. 
• Involves frequent reaching, bending, and lifting.

Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 pounds regularly during the shift.

More detail about Little Mountain, please visit