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Cooks, Fast Food

SOC 35-2011.00Job Zone 2 · Some Preparationv.26.05

Context coveredThis framework covers competencies for fast-food cooks working in quick-service restaurant kitchens, spanning food preparation, cooking equipment operation, beverage service, supply management, sanitation, and team coordination from entry-level crew to lead or shift-supervisor roles.

Sources:O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.SkillsCrosswalkSkillsCrosswalk — O*NET enrichment + adjacency index. Opens in new tab.
Emerging
Entry / Apprentice
  1. Food order slips and verbal instructions — read and interpret under direct supervisor guidance in a fast-food kitchen environment.
  2. Large-volume cooking equipment such as grills, fryers, and griddles — operate under close supervision following posted safety protocols.
  3. Fruits, vegetables, and raw ingredients — wash, cut, and portion according to prep sheets in a supervised fast-food kitchen.
  4. Specialty foods such as sandwiches, tacos, or pizza — assemble following standardized recipes with step-by-step coaching from a lead cook.
  5. Fountain drinks and basic beverages — prepare and serve according to posted portion and recipe guides during a supervised shift.
  6. Food preparation surfaces, cooking tools, and utensils — clean and sanitize following a checklist under the direction of a shift supervisor.
  7. A single customer order — cook and plate accurately while staying within the designated station under direct oversight.
  8. Incoming supply deliveries — assist in receiving, checking quantities, and stocking shelves under supervisor direction.
  9. Active listening skills — apply when receiving verbal food orders from crew members or customers in a high-noise counter environment.
  10. Basic food safety and hygiene rules — follow consistently during all prep tasks on the first weeks of employment in a quick-service restaurant.
Developing
Mid-level / Established
  1. Multiple simultaneous customer orders — cook and track accurately with minimal oversight during a standard fast-food lunch or dinner rush.
  2. Grills, deep-fat fryers, and griddles — operate and adjust temperature settings independently to maintain food quality during routine shifts.
  3. Specialty menu items such as fish and chips, sandwiches, or wraps — prepare using established methods within required service times without prompting.
  4. Beverages including coffee, fountain drinks, and shakes — prepare and serve consistently to brand standards across a full shift without supervisor direction.
  5. Supply orders and delivery records — compare received items against purchase orders and flag discrepancies to the shift manager.
  6. Food prep areas and cooking surfaces — clean and sanitize on a scheduled rotation, adapting to unexpected spills or equipment issues during a shift.
  7. Verbal instructions from crew leads or customers — interpret and act on quickly and accurately in a fast-paced, noisy quick-service environment.
  8. Standardized portion sizes and presentation specs — apply reliably across all menu items during peak and off-peak periods with reduced supervision.
  9. Point-of-sale POS software — use to read incoming orders and confirm completed tickets at a fast-food service station.
  10. Personal stress and pace demands — manage effectively to maintain accuracy and cooperation during high-volume service periods.
Proficient
Senior / Expert IC
  1. All station cooking tasks including grills, fryers, and prep — execute autonomously across a full shift while adapting to menu changes or equipment issues.
  2. Complex or high-volume multi-order sequences — coordinate and complete efficiently, maintaining food quality and ticket time standards without supervision.
  3. Non-routine prep scenarios such as menu substitutions or allergen requests — handle calmly and accurately, applying food safety knowledge in a live service environment.
  4. Supply ordering and inventory levels — monitor independently, place routine orders, and reconcile delivery discrepancies to prevent stock shortages.
  5. Food safety standards and health code requirements — uphold across all preparation and service activities, identifying and correcting violations before they escalate.
  6. New or seasonal specialty menu items — learn quickly, master preparation methods, and produce consistently during regular production shifts.
  7. Preparation schedules for the full kitchen — organize and execute to ensure all stations are stocked and ready before service windows open.
  8. Beverage and food quality standards — evaluate throughout a shift, adjusting equipment calibration or prep technique when output falls below brand specifications.
  9. Verbal and written communication with suppliers and crew — conduct clearly and professionally to coordinate deliveries and resolve order problems.
  10. Customer-facing service situations involving complaints or special requests — resolve effectively and calmly, demonstrating strong service orientation and self-control.
Advanced
Lead / Principal / Executive
  1. Kitchen crew performance and daily assignments — direct and coordinate across all stations to meet throughput, quality, and safety targets during every service period.
  2. On-the-job training for new and developing cooks — design and deliver using standardized methods, equipment demonstrations, and real-time coaching on the fast-food kitchen floor.
  3. Shift-level supply and cost management — oversee ordering, receiving, and waste reduction practices to keep food and labor costs within budget targets.
  4. Food safety and sanitation compliance across the entire kitchen — lead by example and hold all team members accountable to health code and brand standards.
  5. Point-of-sale and operational software tools — leverage for scheduling, inventory tracking, and reporting to support efficient restaurant management decisions.
  6. Station workflows and prep procedures — evaluate continuously and recommend or implement process improvements that reduce ticket times and improve order accuracy.
  7. Team morale and cooperation during high-stress service periods — cultivate through visible leadership, constructive feedback, and a consistent optimistic presence.
  8. Escalated customer service issues including quality complaints or allergen concerns — resolve with authority, documenting outcomes and adjusting procedures to prevent recurrence.
  9. Cross-functional coordination with front-of-house staff and management — facilitate to align kitchen output with service pace, promotional events, and peak-hour planning.
  10. Organizational standards and brand expectations — champion across the entire team, setting the tone for dependability, attention to detail, and consistent product quality.

AI-at-Work Competency Framework

Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Authoritative source data identified for 998 occupations

How a worker at each mastery level uses, directs, and evaluates AI tools in this occupation. Each statement cites its evidence inline; click a citation chip to verify the source.

Emerging
  1. Basic order-tracking familiarity — references a tablet-based AI order display to confirm customer requests and reduce mishearing during peak service periods Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Developing
  1. Prep-list interpretation — reads AI-generated prep schedules and quantity forecasts to stage ingredients before rush hours, cross-checking against actual ticket volume Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
  2. Supplier communication support — uses an AI text assistant to draft or review supply order messages, ensuring item counts and delivery windows match kitchen needs Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
Proficient
  1. Simultaneous-order coordination — applies AI-assisted kitchen display sequencing to manage several concurrent orders, maintaining cook times without relying on memory alone Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
  2. Equipment monitoring handoff — monitors fryer temperature alerts and grill cycle notifications surfaced by digital monitoring tools, intervening manually when readings fall outside safe parameters WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  3. Recipe adherence verification — consults AI-curated recipe steps for specialty items such as tacos or sandwiches to confirm portion sizes and preparation sequence, correcting deviations before plating Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab..
Advanced
  1. Workflow bottleneck diagnosis — analyzes AI-generated throughput reports across grill, fryer, and prep stations to identify recurring slowdowns and proposes station layout or staffing adjustments to management Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab. Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab..
  2. Training facilitation — guides newer cooks through AI-supported instructional prompts for standardized preparation methods, evaluating whether AI guidance matches real kitchen conditions and flagging inaccuracies to supervisors Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab. WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab..
Evidence pack
AEI usage
Task observations: 475
Augment share: 47.5%
Time saved: 87.4%
AI autonomy: 3.62
SAFI positioning
Top skill: Active Listening
Score: 42.2 / 100
Quadrant: Q2_ai_augmented
precision: exact
WEF cluster
Technology Use, Monitoring and Control
technology_use_monitoring_control
Sources:Anthropic Economic IndexAnthropic Economic Index — release_2026_03_24. Opens in new tab.WEF Skills TaxonomyWEF Skills Taxonomy 2021 — Building a Common Language for Skills at Work. Opens in new tab.Jadhav & Danve, 2026Skill Automation Feasibility Index — Jadhav & Danve, 2026 (arXiv:2604.06906). Opens in new tab.

Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework

Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Subscriber feature

Ten durable-skill domains mapped to four proficiency/role levels for each occupation. Each statement is aligned to the Pathsmith taxonomy, derived from trusted grounding data and mapped to occupation-specific O*NET tasks and skills.

1Communication8 statements
Emerging
  1. Order receipt acknowledgment — reads food order slips and repeats back verbal instructions to confirm accuracy before beginning preparation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Coworker coordination — communicates basic food readiness status to team members using standard kitchen callouts during a shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Multi-order status update — relays concurrent order progress to front-of-house staff using clear, concise language during peak service periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Supply delivery communication — receives and confirms delivery of supplies by reviewing invoices and communicating discrepancies to a supervisor O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Customer-facing beverage service — explains available drink options and upsell items to patrons using friendly, efficient verbal communication at the counter Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-station coordination — communicates ticket timing and item availability across grill, fryer, and prep stations to maintain order flow during high-volume rushes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team briefing facilitation — leads pre-shift lineup to communicate daily specials, equipment status, and safety reminders to all kitchen staff Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Escalation communication — articulates food safety concerns or equipment failures clearly and promptly to management, preventing service disruptions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
2Leadership8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task ownership — takes responsibility for completing assigned prep tasks such as washing and cutting vegetables without requiring repeated direction Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Initiative in restocking — identifies when condiment or supply levels are low and takes action to replenish without being asked Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. New crew support — guides newly onboarded team members through specific food preparation steps such as sandwich assembly or fryer operation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Order prioritization — makes independent decisions about which concurrent orders to advance first based on ticket time and item complexity Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Station leadership — takes charge of a specific cooking station such as the grill or deep-fat fryer during a rush, directing nearby staff to maintain output targets Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability modeling — holds self to consistent cleanliness and preparation standards, setting visible expectations for colleagues on the same shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Shift mentorship — coaches developing cooks through specialty food preparation methods such as taco assembly or pizza building, improving team-wide consistency Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Process improvement advocacy — identifies recurring bottlenecks in order flow and proposes adjusted station assignments or prep sequences to a manager Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
3Metacognition8 statements
Emerging
  1. Mistake recognition — identifies personal errors in food preparation such as incorrect portion size or wrong toppings and self-corrects before service Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Learning check — reflects on which preparation steps caused slowdowns during a shift and asks a supervisor for clarification or guidance Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill gap identification — recognizes which cooking equipment or specialty food methods require additional practice and seeks opportunities to improve on slower shifts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Order-reading self-monitoring — pauses to re-read food order slips when working multiple tickets simultaneously to verify accuracy before plating Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Pace self-regulation — monitors personal task completion rate during a rush and adjusts prep sequencing strategies to reduce ticket times without sacrificing quality Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety habit reflection — regularly evaluates personal adherence to food safety protocols such as temperature checks and handwashing frequency to catch compliance gaps Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Performance debriefing — after high-volume service periods, independently reviews what preparation sequences worked and revises personal approach for the next shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Cross-training self-direction — maps personal skill gaps across all kitchen stations and develops a self-directed plan to achieve competency in each role Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
4Critical Thinking8 statements
Emerging
  1. Order accuracy verification — cross-checks prepared items against the food order slip before packaging to identify discrepancies Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment problem recognition — notices when a griddle or fryer is not reaching proper temperature and reports it rather than proceeding with compromised equipment O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Substitution decision-making — evaluates available ingredients when a standard item is out of stock and determines an appropriate substitute or communicates the shortage Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Food quality assessment — inspects prepared specialty foods such as sandwiches and tacos against recipe standards and rejects items that do not meet specifications Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Simultaneous order triage — analyzes multiple in-flight orders to determine optimal cooking sequence across grill, fryer, and prep stations, minimizing total wait time Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Supply order evaluation — reviews inventory levels against anticipated demand and makes evidence-based decisions about quantities to order from suppliers O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Root cause analysis — investigates recurring food quality complaints or preparation errors, identifies systemic causes such as equipment calibration or training gaps, and proposes corrective actions Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Safety risk assessment — evaluates kitchen conditions including wet floors, equipment wear, and chemical storage against public safety standards and implements precautionary measures O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
5Collaboration8 statements
Emerging
  1. Shared workstation etiquette — keeps prep areas clean and organized so that coworkers sharing the same surface can work without interference Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Assist on request — responds promptly when a teammate signals they need help during a rush without disrupting personal task completion Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Station handoff coordination — communicates the status of partially prepared orders and equipment conditions clearly when transitioning between shifts or stations Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Beverage and food pairing teamwork — coordinates with front-counter staff to ensure beverages and food items are completed and packaged together for customer pickup O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Rush-period team synchronization — works in coordinated rhythm with grill, fryer, and assembly teammates to fulfill simultaneous orders without duplication or omission Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Cleaning task collaboration — participates in and contributes equitably to end-of-shift cleaning of food preparation areas, cooking surfaces, and utensils O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Cross-functional workflow design — collaborates with management and front-of-house staff to redesign order handoff procedures that reduce customer wait time during peak hours Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Conflict de-escalation — addresses interpersonal friction between kitchen team members in a constructive way that maintains shift productivity and morale Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
6Character8 statements
Emerging
  1. Punctuality and readiness — arrives to shift on time, in uniform, and ready to begin prep tasks without prompting Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Honest error reporting — discloses a food preparation mistake such as an incorrect item or undercooked product immediately rather than allowing it to reach a customer Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Food safety integrity — adheres to temperature, storage, and hygiene protocols consistently regardless of shift pace or supervision level Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Accountability for waste — takes responsibility for food waste caused by personal preparation errors and adjusts technique to reduce recurrence Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Consistent professionalism — maintains a respectful, composed demeanor with both coworkers and customers during high-stress service periods Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Ethical supply handling — accurately records supply deliveries and reports overages or shortages rather than adjusting records to avoid scrutiny Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Standards advocacy — upholds and openly promotes food safety and quality standards even when pressured by time constraints or peer shortcuts Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Mentorship integrity — provides honest, constructive feedback to developing cooks about preparation technique without disparaging or discouraging them Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
7Creativity8 statements
Emerging
  1. Garnish improvisation — adapts presentation of a specialty food item within allowed parameters when standard materials are temporarily unavailable Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Problem-solving initiative — devises a workaround for a minor equipment limitation such as a malfunctioning portion scoop during service rather than halting production Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Preparation efficiency innovation — experiments with adjusted prep sequencing during slow periods to identify faster methods for cutting and washing vegetables Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Beverage customization — suggests or assembles non-standard drink combinations within menu guidelines in response to a customer's specific request Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Station layout optimization — rearranges tools and ingredients on the prep surface in a novel configuration that improves reach and reduces wasted motion during a rush Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Specialty food variation — applies core preparation technique for items such as sandwiches or tacos to produce a limited-time variation when directed, adapting steps creatively Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Process prototype proposal — designs and pitches a new prep workflow to management based on observed inefficiencies, complete with a rationale and trial plan Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Training material creation — develops simple visual aids or step-by-step guides for specialty food preparation methods to accelerate onboarding of new crew members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
8Growth Mindset8 statements
Emerging
  1. Feedback acceptance — receives correction on food preparation technique from a supervisor without defensiveness and applies the adjustment immediately Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Willingness to cross-train — volunteers to learn a new station such as the fryer or grill during a slow period rather than remaining in a comfort zone Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Skill repetition commitment — practices a difficult preparation task such as consistent portion control or proper fryer basket technique across multiple shifts until mastery is achieved Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Rush challenge reframing — treats high-volume service periods as opportunities to improve speed and accuracy rather than as sources of frustration Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Constructive setback response — after a service error such as a missed order or improperly cooked item, analyzes what went wrong and adjusts approach for subsequent orders Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Menu change adaptation — embraces new specialty food items or preparation methods introduced by management and works to master them within the expected timeline Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Continuous improvement leadership — actively seeks performance feedback from managers and peers after each shift and documents personal growth targets to review weekly Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Peer growth investment — encourages struggling teammates to persist through difficult preparation tasks by sharing personal learning strategies and offering hands-on support Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
9Mindfulness8 statements
Emerging
  1. Task focus during prep — maintains attention on the current cutting or washing task without drifting, reducing errors and ingredient waste Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Stress awareness — recognizes personal signs of overwhelm during a rush and applies a brief grounding technique such as a deliberate breath before continuing Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Order-by-order presence — focuses fully on the current ticket rather than becoming preoccupied with the queue, reducing mid-preparation errors on simultaneous orders Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Emotion regulation under pressure — manages frustration when orders back up or a coworker makes an error, maintaining a composed demeanor that does not disrupt service Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Intentional safety compliance — pauses before operating large-volume equipment such as fryers or griddles to confirm safety conditions rather than proceeding on autopilot Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
  2. Customer interaction attentiveness — listens with full attention when receiving verbal food orders, reducing mishearing errors and the need for order corrections Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Shift-wide attentional modeling — demonstrates and encourages deliberate, focused work habits across the kitchen team, reducing collective error rates during sustained rushes Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Proactive environment awareness — continuously monitors the kitchen environment for emerging hazards such as grease spills or open flames and intervenes before incidents occur Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
10Fortitude8 statements
Emerging
  1. Rush endurance — sustains adequate output on the grill or fryer through a continuous high-order period without abandoning assigned tasks Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Discomfort tolerance — continues working effectively in the heat and noise of the kitchen environment during a demanding shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Developing
  1. Recovery after error — bounces back quickly from a preparation mistake or customer complaint without losing pace or morale for the remainder of the shift Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained repetition commitment — maintains accuracy and care through repeated identical tasks such as assembling dozens of the same sandwich item without quality degradation Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Applying
  1. Adversity navigation — continues meeting food preparation standards during understaffed shifts by prioritizing tasks, managing pace, and communicating clearly with available team members Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Equipment failure response — maintains composure and shifts workflow when critical equipment such as a fryer goes offline mid-shift, adapting output to available resources Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab. O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Exceeding
  1. Team morale anchoring — provides steady, calming presence for teammates during exceptionally difficult shifts such as equipment failures combined with peak demand, preventing team breakdown Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
  2. Sustained excellence under chronic pressure — maintains preparation quality and safety compliance consistently across weeks of high-volume operations without relying on supervisory reminders Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.
Sources:Pathsmith Durable SkillsPathsmith Durable Skills Framework — America Succeeds + CompTIA. Opens in new tab.O*NET v30.2O*NET Resource Center — Occupational Information Network, v30.2 (Sept 2025). Opens in new tab.
Show O*NET source anchors30 anchors · skillscrosswalk.com

O*NET enrichment · skillscrosswalk.com

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Source anchors that ground each statement

Related titles
Cook · Deep Fat Fryer Operator · Fast Food Cook · Fast Food Fry Cook · Fast Food Worker · Food Service Cook · Fry Cook · Fryer · Fryline Attendant · Grill Cook · Grill Line Cook · Hotel and Restaurant Baker
RAPIDS apprenticeships
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O*NET skills
Active ListeningService Orientation
Knowledge domains
Administration and ManagementTransportationCommunications and MediaCustomer and Personal ServicePublic Safety and SecurityEnglish Language
Abilities
Oral ComprehensionNear VisionInformation OrderingSpeech Recognition
Work styles
DependabilityAttention to DetailStress ToleranceCooperationSelf-ControlOptimism
Technology
Point of sale POS softwareSpreadsheet softwareElectronic mail softwareWord processing software
Tasks · seed anchors for statements
  1. Order and take delivery of supplies.
  2. Cook the exact number of items ordered by each customer, working on several different orders simultaneously.
  3. Prepare specialty foods, such as pizzas, fish and chips, sandwiches, or tacos, following specific methods that usually require short preparation time.
  4. Operate large-volume cooking equipment, such as grills, deep-fat fryers, or griddles.
  5. Wash, cut, and prepare foods designated for cooking.
  6. Prepare and serve beverages, such as coffee or fountain drinks.
  7. Clean food preparation areas, cooking surfaces, and utensils.
  8. Read food order slips or receive verbal instructions as to food required by patron, and prepare and cook food according to instructions.
CIP education codes
12.050012.050112.050312.050412.050912.0507

Sources: O*NET v30.2 (CC BY 4.0), SkillsCrosswalk.com, LER.me, Anthropic Economic Index, SAFI (Jadhav & Danve, 2026), WEF Skills Taxonomy 2021, Pathsmith Durable Skills Framework. © 2026 EBSCOed.