CENTRAL KITCHEN COOK - CENTRAL KITCHEN

About Us: Uwajimaya is more than just a grocery store — we’re a vibrant cultural destination with a rich history rooted in family, community, and food. Since 1928, we’ve grown into the Pacific Northwest’s premier Asian retailer, known for our wide selection, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to sharing the diverse traditions of Asian cultures. We take pride in creating a one-of-a-kind experience for customers and employees alike — one that’s centered around food, culture, and people.

Why Join Uwajimaya?

At Uwajimaya, we believe in nurturing growth — in our communities, our customers, and our team members. We foster an environment built on collaboration, curiosity, and care. Whether you're starting your career or bringing years of experience, you'll find opportunities to make a meaningful impact in a workplace that values tradition, innovation, and connection.

Who We're Looking For
We’re looking for team members who are collaborative, thoughtful, and passionate about making a difference. Whether you’re serving customers, supporting operations, or leading a team, you bring a people-first mindset and a strong work ethic. If you thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and believe in the power of inclusion, community, and connection — you’ll feel right at home here.

To thrive at Uwajimaya, you should embody our core competencies:

• Functional/Technical Skills: You possess the necessary functional and technical knowledge to perform your job at a high level.

• Customer Focus: You are dedicated to meeting customer expectations and requirements, using feedback for improvements, and building effective relationships based on trust and respect.

• Action Oriented: You enjoy working hard, are full of energy for challenging tasks, and seize opportunities with minimal planning.

• Peer Relationships: You can find common ground with peers, solve problems collaboratively, and are seen as a cooperative team player who encourages collaboration.

• Self-Development: You are committed to continuous self-improvement, adapt to different situations, and work to develop your strengths while addressing weaknesses.

We offer:

• A flexible, inclusive, and friendly work culture

• Competitive starting wages

• Paid holidays from day one

• Excellent medical, dental, and vision benefits

• A generous retirement plan

• Paid time off, long-term disability, and life insurance

• Employee discounts on food and gift items

• Supplemental insurance options

• Opportunities for growth and advancement

Position Summary:

The Cook at the Central Kitchen is responsible for preparing and cooking food products according to standardized recipes and production schedules in a high-volume food manufacturing or commercial kitchen setting. This role requires strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and quality standards. The ideal candidate has experience working in fast-paced food environments, a strong sense of organization, and attention to detail.

Position’s Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and cook a variety of food items in accordance with recipes, portion controls, and production requirements.
• Apply culinary knowledge with specialization in Asian Cuisine to oversee recipe preparation, portion control, cooking, and finishing methods that align with product specifications. 
• Operate kitchen equipment such as ovens, kettles, grills, steamers, and mixers safely and efficiently.
• Follow HACCP, GMP, and sanitation protocols to ensure food safety and cleanliness.
• Ensure proper handling and storage of raw and cooked foods, including correct labeling and dating.
• Monitor cooking times and temperatures to maintain quality and consistency.
• Perform quality checks on ingredients and finished products; report any inconsistencies.
• Maintain a clean and organized work area, including routine cleaning of equipment and surfaces.
• Work collaboratively with team members to meet daily production targets and minimize waste.
• Follow allergen control procedures and communicate any potential cross-contamination risks.
• Assist in inventory control and notify supervisor of shortages or equipment issues.
• Other duties as assigned.

Starting Pay: $22.19/hr., Depending on Experience
Pay Range: $22.19 – $28.84/hr.

Uwajimaya participates in E-Verify to confirm employment eligibility. Please review the E-Verify Participation Poster and Right to Work Poster before proceeding with your application

IER Right to Work Poster (English/Spanish) (PDF, 322.73 KB)

E-Verify Participation Poster (English/Spanish) (PDF, 259.92 KB)

Uwajimaya is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

• Must be at least 18 years old.
• Proficiency in Japanese and/or Chinese preferred.
• Minimum of a High school diploma or GED required; culinary training preferred.
• 1+ year of experience as a cook in a food production facility, commissary kitchen, or restaurant.
• Knowledge of food preparation techniques, kitchen equipment, and food safety regulations.
• Ability to read and follow recipes and batch sheets accurately.
• ServSafe certification or food handler’s card preferred.
• Strong attention to detail, time management, and ability to multitask.
• Must be a team player with good communication skills and a positive attitude.
• Must be able to lift up to 50 lbs.