Dedicated Culinary Leader with Operational Excellence

NATIVIDAD

PAGAN

Portland, Me. ***** 207-***-**** *****.****@*****.***

Professional Summary

Dedicated and energetic culinary professional with 8+ years of experience in high-volume, fast-paced restaurant environments. Skilled in team leadership, menu execution, and maintaining the highest food safety standards. Proven ability to manage kitchen operations, train staff, and optimize workflows to improve efficiency and guest satisfaction. Adept at crafting flavorful dishes and providing exceptional dining experiences. Core Competencies

Team Leadership & Training

High-Volume Food Preparation

Menu Planning & Execution

Inventory Management & Cost Control

Food Safety & Sanitation (ServSafe Certified)

Recipe Development

Customer-Focused Service

Knife Skills & Plating

Experience

Terlingua BBQ

Portland, Me / Line Cook / October 2022- December 2024 Collaborated with the head chef to create and execute a unique menu blending traditional Mexican and BBQ flavors.

Managed and trained kitchen staff, ensuring smooth operations in a high-volume setting with up to 150 daily covers.

Perfected preparation and presentation techniques for signature dishes, consistently receiving positive guest feedback.

Monitored inventory levels and placed supply orders, reducing waste and managing costs effectively.

2

Soul Food Paradise

South Portland, Me. / Sous Chef / April 2021- Present Collaborate with the head chef to create seasonal menus, ensuring alignment with the restaurant’s culinary vision.

Prepare and cook diverse dishes, consistently meeting high standards of presentation and flavor.

Developed and implemented an inventory system that reduced supply costs by 10%. The Moose Sports Bar

Falmouth, Me. / Line Cook / October 2022- August 2023 Supervise food preparation and station operations for an 80+ seat restaurant, ensuring quality and consistency.

Train and mentor junior kitchen staff, promoting a positive and efficient work environment. Maintain food safety and cleanliness standards by monitoring storage, sanitation, and equipment upkeep.

Streamlined ingredient rotation practices, reducing food waste by 15%. Monks Café

Philadelphia, Pa. / Line Cook / August 2015-June 2019 Successfully managed multiple stations in a fast-paced kitchen during peak hours, serving up to 300 guests daily.

Assisted in planning daily specials and executing events, including catering for large parties. Maintained strong communication with front-of-house staff to ensure timely service delivery. Rent a Center

Philadelphia, Pa / Customer Account Rep / January 2006- August 2008 Developed strong interpersonal skills by resolving customer disputes and promoting product satisfaction.

Managed account payments and delivery schedules with 100% accuracy. Additional Roles

(Laborer, Grounds man, Janitor)Early career roles in labor and maintenance, showcasing a strong work ethic, reliability, and teamwork.

3

Education

High School Diploma

Technical Skills

Sauté & Grill Cooking

Baking & Roasting

Culinary Equipment Operation

Food Cost Control

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