Christopher Pagano
Grand Junction
Summary
Passionate culinary professional skilled in leading teams in high-volume environments while maintaining quality and accuracy. Thrives in fast-paced settings, providing support as needed to ensure seamless operations. Committed to utilizing fresh, high-quality ingredients and scratch cooking to deliver exceptional experiences.
Overview
18
18
years of professional experience
Work History
Cook Shift Leader
Vail Resorts Inc
Vail
11.2025 - 04.2026
- Supervised kitchen staff during shifts to ensure smooth operations.
- Managed inventory and organized kitchen supplies for efficiency.
- Prepared and cooked meals according to Vail Resorts' quality standards.
- Trained new cooks on menu items and safety protocols.
- Maintained cleanliness and safety of kitchen equipment and workspaces.
Sous Chef
Grand Teton Lodge Company
Moran
05.2025 - 10.2025
- Prepared and presented high-quality dishes for guests at the Ranch House restaurant in Colter Bay
- Developed weekly specials featuring original recipes and high-quality ingredients to enhance menu offerings.
- Trained new kitchen staff on cooking techniques and safety protocols.
- Managed inventory and placed orders to ensure ingredient availability and minimize waste.
- Directed kitchen staff in day-to-day operations including food production, sanitation, safety practices, and personnel management.
- Provided hands-on training to kitchen workers in various culinary techniques to enhance their skills.
- Coordinated kitchen employee scheduling to optimize coverage and reduce labor costs.
Lead Line Cook
Elance Retirement Community
St Petersburg
04.2024 - 05.2025
- Trained new cooks on food safety standards and cooking techniques to ensure compliance and consistency.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen equipment and workstations, promoting a safe and efficient cooking environment.
- Kept stations stocked and ready for use, supporting seamless kitchen operations.
- Maintained high food safety standards to meet the specific needs of at-risk residents.
Lead Line Cook
Postcard Inn On The Beach
St. Pete Beach
03.2022 - 04.2024
- Supervised kitchen staff to ensure efficient food preparation and service.
- Trained new cooks on food safety standards and cooking techniques.
- Prepared dishes in fast-paced environment working with teammates to maintain high customer satisfaction rate.
- Assisted banquet Sous Chef with event menu creation, production, and service.
- Single-handedly ran a pop-up taco bar next to the beach on weekends during live music events.
Lead Line Cook
Golden Dinosaurs Vegan Deli
Gulfport
03.2020 - 03.2022
- Single-handedly ran the line during service, a job usually requiring 2 people.
- Assisted prep team with food preparation.
- Occasionally worked the counter, taking orders, and assisting guests with their needs.
Line Cook
Grand Plaza Hotel Beachfront Resort & Conference Center
St. Pete Beach
01.2016 - 02.2020
- Prepared high-quality dishes that met hotel recipes and presentation standards, ensuring guest satisfaction.
- Operated kitchen equipment safely and efficiently, facilitating smooth service during peak hours.
- Maintained cleanliness and organization of kitchen areas in compliance with health regulations.
- Assisted in training new cooks on proper cooking techniques and safety protocols.
- Cooked multiple orders simultaneously, maintaining quality and timing during busy periods.
Cook
Roseline's Cafe and Bakery
Augusta
06.2010 - 12.2015
- Managed kitchen operations, led bakery production, and ensured consistent stock availability for seamless service.
- Harvested vegetables, tended to chickens, and contributed to planting and cultivating crops.
Cook
Firehouse Bagel and Deli
Branchville
01.2009 - 05.2010
- Managed breakfast line, maintaining food quality and accuracy in high-volume service
- Supported baker in bagel and pastry production, starting production as early as 3 A.M.
Dishwasher/Food Prep
Sweet Jane's Restaurant
Johnsonburg
04.2008 - 01.2009
- Cleaned and sanitized dishes, utensils, and kitchen equipment to maintain hygiene standards.
- Assisted Chef/Owner in food preparation and service to support timely meal delivery.
Education
Associate of Science - Business Management
Sussex County Community College
Newton, NJ06-2015
Skills
- Inventory management
- Meal preparation
- Culinary training
- Kitchen sanitation
- Food safety practices
- Team leadership
- Customer service
- Staff scheduling
- Menu planning
- Attention to detail
- Knife Skills
Timeline
Cook Shift Leader
Vail Resorts Inc
11.2025 - 04.2026
Sous Chef
Grand Teton Lodge Company
05.2025 - 10.2025
Lead Line Cook
Elance Retirement Community
04.2024 - 05.2025
Lead Line Cook
Postcard Inn On The Beach
03.2022 - 04.2024
Lead Line Cook
Golden Dinosaurs Vegan Deli
03.2020 - 03.2022
Line Cook
Grand Plaza Hotel Beachfront Resort & Conference Center
01.2016 - 02.2020
Cook
Roseline's Cafe and Bakery
06.2010 - 12.2015
Cook
Firehouse Bagel and Deli
01.2009 - 05.2010
Dishwasher/Food Prep
Sweet Jane's Restaurant
04.2008 - 01.2009
Associate of Science - Business Management
Sussex County Community College