Cook

Cooks prepare and cook meals according to recipes and guidelines, often under the supervision of chefs, focusing on efficient food preparation and basic culinary techniques.

What is a typical day as a Cook? 

– Preparing ingredients, such as chopping vegetables or marinating proteins 

– Cooking dishes according to recipes and portion guidelines 

– Plating food in an appealing and consistent manner 

– Cleaning and maintaining workstations and kitchen equipment

What else might they be expected to do? 

– Assist chefs with tasks like inventory checks and restocking supplies 

– Ensure food safety by adhering to hygiene and sanitation standards 

– Prepare sauces, soups, or side dishes as needed 

– Handle customer-specific requests or special dietary needs. 

What type of training is needed for this career path? 

– No formal education is required, but vocational training in food preparation is beneficial. 

– On-the-job training is common and often sufficient for entry-level roles. 

– Certifications in food safety and sanitation, such as HACCP, are advantageous. 

What kind of personality is needed to excel in this career path? 

– Hardworking, detail-oriented, and efficient individuals thrive in this role. 

– Big 5 Traits: High conscientiousness, emotional stability, and agreeableness. 

– Myers-Briggs Types: ISFJ (supportive and meticulous) or ISTJ (organized and reliable). 

What kind of interests do people in this career path have? 

– Realistic (R): Enjoy working hands-on with food and kitchen equipment. 

– Conventional (C): Preference for following structured processes like recipes and preparation guidelines. 

– Artistic (A): Interest in presenting food attractively and experimenting with flavors 

What types of organizations hire for this role? 

– Cooks are employed in casual dining restaurants, fast-food establishments, cafeterias, catering companies, hotels, and cruise ships 

What challenges can I expect to face if I pursue this career path? 

– Working long hours in hot and fast-paced kitchen environments 

– Repeating tasks, which can sometimes feel monotonous 

– Managing pressure during peak service hours 

What are the job prospects for this path in Kenya and Africa? What about International prospects for a Kenyan citizen? 

– Kenya and Africa: Demand for cooks is strong in restaurants, catering businesses, and tourist destinations. Growth in the hospitality sector is expanding opportunities. 

– International: Cooks with experience in global cuisines and certifications in food safety are competitive in international markets, particularly on cruise ships or in global restaurant chains. 

What should I focus on if I choose to pursue this career? 

– Gain experience in various kitchen tasks to develop versatility. 

– Build speed and efficiency in food preparation. 

– Stay updated on hygiene and food safety standards. 

Which other careers or job roles can I progress to? 

– Chef (e.g., Sous Chef, Head Chef) 

– Pastry Cook 

– Catering Supervisor 

– Food and Beverage Manager