KRISTIN WIGGINS
Blairgowrie,VIC
Summary
Detail-oriented centre cook with strong expertise in food safety compliance and kitchen equipment operation. Demonstrated ability to uphold high standards in food preparation and sanitation. Proven track record of effective team collaboration to enhance kitchen efficiency.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
Work History
centre cook
goodstart
rosebud, vic
10.2022 - 01.2026
- Prepared a variety of dishes following standardized recipes and presentation guidelines.
- Collaborated with team members to coordinate meal service, ensuring timely delivery during peak hours.
- Assisted in inventory management by tracking stock levels and ordering supplies to maintain kitchen operations.
- Operated kitchen equipment safely, including ovens, grills, and fryers.
- Conducted food safety checks to verify compliance with health regulations, ensuring safe food preparation and service.
- Adapted recipes to accommodate dietary restrictions and preferences of customers.
- Maintained a clean working environment by sweeping, mopping floors, washing surfaces and emptying trash cans.
- Wrapped, dated and labeled food items in storage for safety and freshness.
- Followed established procedures and requirements for safe food handling, storage and service.
- Chopped, diced and sliced vegetables and fruit ahead of rush periods.
- Used standardized recipes and other instructions to prepare food.
- Maintained safe operations of food prep equipment to reduce complications and retain safety procedures.
- Enforced proper sanitation practices to prevent spoiling or contamination of foods.
- Organized storage areas for efficient usage of space.
- Managed portion control using correct utensils during preparation and plating.
- Coordinated orders to expedite food from kitchen according to cook time and delivery time.
- Retained consistent quality and high accuracy when preparing identical dishes every day.
- Monitored stock levels of food items and ordered more when necessary.
- Adjusted seasonings of dishes during the cooking process in order to enhance flavors.
- Performed basic administrative duties such as inventory management, ordering supplies.
- Tasted all prepared dishes in order to check flavorings, texture and presentation prior to serving them to customers.
- Ordered supplies to maintain kitchen inventory.
- Verified completed orders to confirm accuracy in quantity and quality before service.
- Monitored temperatures of prepared food and cold-storage areas.
- Operated kitchen equipment in alignment with OSHA protocols and manufacturer instructions.
Head Chef
blairgowrie cafe
blairgowrie, vic
04.2017 - 09.2022
- Managed kitchen operations and staff at a busy local cafe.
- Developed seasonal menus that highlight local ingredients and flavors.
- Ensured food safety and sanitation standards met all regulatory requirements.
- Trained and mentored junior chefs in culinary techniques and kitchen practices.
- Collaborated with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients for dishes.
- Oversaw inventory management, ensuring stock levels were maintained effectively.
- Fostered a positive team environment, promoting collaboration among kitchen staff.
- Trained new kitchen staff in food safety regulations and proper cooking techniques.
- Monitored kitchen area and staff to maintain overall safety and establish proper food handling techniques.
- Developed menus and recipes for a variety of dishes, including appetizers, entrees, desserts, and specialty items.
- Ordered food supplies from vendors to maintain adequate stock levels.
- Performed regular maintenance tasks such as cleaning equipment, utensils, floors, walls, ensuring that all areas are kept clean and sanitary at all times.
- Delegated tasks for kitchen employees and developed staff teams to streamline food preparation procedures.
- Monitored food production to guarantee quality standards were met.
- Organized kitchen staff to ensure efficient operations during peak service hours.
- Monitored quality, presentation, and quantities of plated food across line.
- Established portion control guidelines to reduce waste and maximize profits.
- Ensured compliance with health department regulations regarding hygiene and sanitation practices.
- Regularly interacted with guests to obtain feedback on product quality and service levels.
- Assisted restaurant owners with pricing by providing ingredient costs and portioning information.
- Addressed customer complaints promptly and professionally while maintaining high standards of customer service.
- Resolved conflicts between kitchen staff members in a professional manner.
- Communicated effectively with wait staff regarding patron food allergies and dietary restrictions.
- Prepared workstations with ingredients and tools to increase efficiency.
Education
Rosebud Secondary
Rosebud, VICSkills
- Culinary techniques
- Food safety compliance
- Kitchen equipment operation
- Menu development
- Menu planning
- Recipes and menu planning
- Allergen awareness
- Contamination prevention
- Temperature control
- Food waste reduction
- High volume production capability
- Kitchen sanitation management
- Food handler certification
- Inventory management
- Cleaning and organization
- Time management
- Team collaboration
- Clear communication
- Attention to detail
- Hospitality service expertise
- Cooking
Certification
food safety supervisor
Timeline
centre cook
goodstart
10.2022 - 01.2026
Head Chef
blairgowrie cafe
04.2017 - 09.2022
Rosebud Secondary