Prep Cook at Perkins Restaurants and Bakery in State College, PA

Why JDK

• Competitive pay - Based on experience, with a clear path as your impact grows.
• Work-life balance - Flexible scheduling options that work for you.
• Benefits package - Medical, dental, vision, paid time off, and 401(k) with company match. Subject to terms and conditions.
• Values-driven culture - We’re Hungry, Humble, and Smart — and we hire people who work the same way.

Who we are

Founded in 1958 as a single pancake house in Ohio, Perkins has grown into a leading family dining restaurant now for friendly service, classic comfort food, and great value. Since 1982, JDK has continued to build on Perkins’ legacy by serving as the largest franchiser of the brand. Our success is driven by people who live out our guiding principles every day: Stay Hungry, Be Humble, and Work Smart. It’s how we collaborate, grow, and support one another – creating an environment where team members can thrive while delivering exceptional experiences to our guests.

The role

We are looking for a Prep Cook who is responsible for preparing ingredients and supporting kitchen operations to ensure every dish meets company standards. A successful Prep Cook takes pride in attention to detail, works efficiently, and helps create a clean and organized kitchen environment.

What you’ll do

• Prepare ingredients according to recipes and company specifications, including chopping, portioning, mixing, and stocking items.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and well-stocked prep area throughout each shift.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and kitchen safety procedures.
• Support Line Cooks and other kitchen team members to ensure smooth and efficient operations.
• Properly label, store, and rotate food items according to company standards.
• Assist with cleaning, dishwashing, and restocking tasks as needed.
• Perform additional duties as assigned.

How you’ll thrive

• Take initiative and look for ways to improve in your daily work.
• Put the team first, stay open to feedback, and lead with respect.
• Communicate thoughtfully and navigate situations with good judgment.

What you'll need

• No experience is required. Prior prep cook experience is a plus.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
• Ability to stand, walk, reach, and bend for extended periods.

Disclaimer

This position description in not intended, and should not be construed to be, an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, skills, efforts or working conditions associated with job. It is intended, however, to be an accurate reflection of those principle job elements essential for making decisions related to job performance, employee development and compensation. As such, the incumbent may perform other duties and responsibilities as required.

JDK Management Company participates in E-Verify to confirm the identity and employment eligibility of all newly hired employees. For more information about E-Verify and your rights, please review the E-Verify Posters.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Compensation: $10.00 - $16.00 per hour

Founded in 1958 as a single pancake house in Ohio, Perkins American Food Co. has transformed into the nation’s leading family restaurant. Through the years, Perkins has remained true to its mission of providing guests with friendly service and classic comfort dishes at a great price. Sure, Perkins started with dozens of pancakes and waffle options, but soon enough we grew to offer American staples like breakfast all day, hearty steak plates, juicy burgers, and a wide selection of handcrafted handhelds, soups, and salads. The most iconic piece of Perkins is, you guessed it, our pie!

At Perkins, we take great pride in our service, experience, and feeding folks what they like. It’s the cornerstone of our company and the thing that keeps us going after all these years. With nearly 300 company-owned and franchised locations in 32 states and two Canadian provinces, we’re pretty proud of how far we’ve come. Perkins American Food Co. is franchised by JDK Management Company - a family of hospitality and service companies since 1982.

BE A PART OF OUR SUCCESS

Perkins has experienced years of success through ensuring 100% guest satisfaction on every visit. If you want to work and grow with a company who has a proven track record of success, has an unmatched commitment to their employees and employees the best in the industry, you are in the right place!

This franchise is independently owned and operated by a franchisee. Your application will go directly to the franchisee, and all hiring decisions will be made by the management of this franchisee. All inquiries about employment at this franchisee should be made directly to the franchise location, and not to Perkins Corporate.