Resume Writing Tips for Line Cook

Introduction

Whether you’re just starting out in the culinary world or looking to take the next step, your resume is often the first impression you make on a potential employer. A line cook’s resume needs to effectively illustrate technical skills, efficiency, teamwork, and consistency under pressure. Given the volume of applications kitchens receive, tailoring your resume to stand out and pass Applicant Tracking Systems (ATS) is critical. In this guide, we’ll outline actionable tips to help you create a compelling, ATS-friendly line cook resume that highlights your culinary expertise and professionalism.

1. Resume Summary

Your resume summary is a brief section at the top of your resume that quickly communicates who you are, your core skills, and what you bring to the table. This section should be tailored to each job application to align with the employer’s needs and the job description.

Example: “Detail-oriented line cook with 3+ years of experience in high-volume kitchens. Proven ability to prepare diverse menu items efficiently, maintain quality standards, and assist in kitchen operations. Skilled in inventory management, food safety compliance, and multi-station cooking.”

2. Key Skills

Highlighting your key skills helps employers quickly identify your qualifications. Incorporate specific culinary and kitchen-related skills relevant to the line cook role. Use keywords found in job descriptions to optimize for ATS software.

• Food Preparation
• Grilling and Sautéing Techniques
• Inventory Management
• Food Safety & Sanitation (ServSafe Certified)
• Multitasking in High-Pressure Environments
• Knife Skills
• Team Collaboration
• Menu Execution
• Temperature Control
• Kitchen Equipment Operation (Ovens, Grills, Fryers)

3. Achievements

While many resumes list job responsibilities, highlighting achievements conveys your impact. Use quantifiable metrics to demonstrate how you contributed to the kitchen’s success, such as reducing food waste or accelerating service times.

Example Achievement: “Reduced food waste by 15% through improved inventory tracking and portion control, contributing to a 10% increase in kitchen profitability over six months.”

4. Tailor to Job

Customize your resume for each job by matching your skills and experiences with the requirements listed in the job description. This approach increases your chances of getting past ATS filters and catches the hiring manager’s eye.

5. Tools

• Commercial Ovens
• Industrial Fryers
• Grills and Griddles
• Food Processors
• Kitchen Display Systems (KDS)
• Point of Sale (POS) Systems
• Inventory Management Software
• Timers and Thermometers
• Knife Sharpeners
• Food Safety Monitoring Devices

6. Metrics

• Average number of meals prepared per shift
• Percentage reduction in food waste
• Time saved in food preparation or order turnaround
• Customer satisfaction ratings or positive feedback mentions
• Number of team members supported or trained

7. Education

• High School Diploma or GED
• Associate Degree or Certificate in Culinary Arts (if applicable)
• Food Safety Certifications (e.g., ServSafe)
• Relevant Workshops or On-the-Job Training

8. Format

• Use a clean, professional layout with clearly defined sections
• Keep font sizes between 10-12 points for readability
• Utilize bullet points for experience and skills
• Limit the resume to two pages maximum
• Avoid graphics and images that ATS systems cannot parse

9. Concise

Keep your descriptions clear and to the point. Focus on what sets you apart without overloading on unnecessary detail. Concise bullet points that start with strong action verbs tend to be more impactful and easier to scan.

10. Bonus

• Include any leadership roles such as shift lead or kitchen trainer to demonstrate responsibility and team skills.
• Consider adding a section for languages spoken if relevant to your workplace.
• Always proofread for spelling and grammar — errors can undermine your professionalism.
• Include references only upon request to save space.

Examples

• “Managed prep station during peak hours, consistently preparing over 150 dishes per shift with zero quality complaints.”
• “Trained 5 new line cooks, improving onboarding efficiency and reducing preparing errors by 20%.”

Conclusion

Creating a standout line cook resume involves more than listing duties. By emphasizing your measurable impact, leadership capabilities, and problem-solving skills, you illustrate your value beyond basic cooking tasks. Tailoring your resume to the job, using clear formatting, and incorporating relevant keywords will maximize your chances of securing interviews. Remember, a resume that showcases your contributions and professionalism opens doors to career growth and culinary success.