Jaylia McGary

Passionate and driven culinary professional with a lifelong dream of becoming a chef. Graduated with honors from Santa Barbara City College with an associate's degree in advanced culinary arts.

Experience includes roles as a Pastry cook at San Ysidro Ranch, Baker at Hook and Press Donuts, and a Chef at Santa Barbara Airport in the First Class Lounge. Along with working full-time, founded Jay's Kitchen, a catering and private chef service in Goleta and Santa Barbara. Committed to continuous improvement in culinary arts and dedicated to achieving personal and professional goals. Authorized to work in the US for any employer.

Line Cook at RH (2025-01 – Present)

• Prepared and cooked a variety of dishes according to recipes, quality standards, and presentation guidelines
• Collaborated with the kitchen team to plan daily specials and seasonal menu changes
• Maintained a clean and organized work station, following sanitation guidelines at all times
• Assisted in training new line cooks on cooking techniques, recipe execution, and safety procedures
• Operated various kitchen equipment such as grills, fryers, ovens, etc., ensuring their proper functioning
• Adhered to portion control guidelines while plating dishes for consistent portion sizes
• Followed all food safety regulations including temperature monitoring and labeling of prepared foods
• Communicated effectively with servers regarding special requests or modifications from customers
• Worked efficiently under pressure during busy service periods to meet customer demands without compromising quality
• Collaborated with the chef in developing new recipes or modifying existing ones based on customer feedback or ingredient availability
• Ensured that all dishes leaving the kitchen were visually appealing by garnishing plates appropriately
• Maintained knowledge of current menu items, ingredients used, allergens present, and any dietary restrictions or preferences upon request from customers

Private Chef/Caterer at Jay's Kitchen (2023-12 – Present)

Founded and operates Jay's Kitchen, a boutique catering and private chef service specializing in personalized culinary experiences started for clients in Goleta and Santa Barbara. Will continue service in a new city once relocated.

• Deliver high-quality, customized meals directly to clients, ensuring exceptional taste and presentation
• Created and managed the company website, showcasing services, menus, and client testimonials to attract and inform potential customers
• Cater small gatherings and manage all aspects of food preparation, service, and cleanup
• Handle financial aspects of the business, including budgeting, invoicing, and expense tracking
• Maintain meticulous organization to ensure smooth operations and timely delivery of services
• Communicate closely with clients to understand their preferences, dietary needs, and event details, ensuring a personalized and memorable experience
• Obtained necessary business licenses and certifications, including passing health inspections, to operate legally and uphold food safety standards
• Operate independently with strong self-initiative, managing all aspects of the business without additional employees

Chef at Primrose Schools (2024-08 – 2024-11)

• Oversaw the organization of kitchen operations to maximize efficiency during peak hours
• Implemented cost-saving measures such as portion control strategies without compromising quality or customer satisfaction
• Developed creative solutions for accommodating dietary restrictions or allergies while maintaining flavor profiles
• Managed food waste reduction initiatives by implementing efficient production processes
• Created and executed innovative menus, incorporating seasonal ingredients and culinary trends
• Ensured consistent quality of food preparation by implementing standardized recipes and cooking techniques
• Led menu planning meetings to discuss new dishes, specials, or modifications based on customer feedback

Chef at Santa Barbara Airport (2024-04 – 2024-08)

• Operate the hotline, ensuring timely preparation and presentation of meals for travelers
• Prepare and cook meats, vegetables, hamburgers, and other menu items according to established recipes and quality standards
• Clean and maintain grills, flat tops, fryers, and other kitchen equipment to ensure sanitary and efficient operations
• Perform opening and closing procedures for the kitchen, including setup and cleanup
• Manage breakfast service, including preparation and serving of breakfast items
• Review order sheets, receive inventory, and assess stock levels to determine necessary orders
• Work 12-hour shifts, demonstrating flexibility and dedication to meeting operational needs
• Train new cooks, guide kitchen procedures, and assist with scheduling and recruitment
• Handle dishwashing duties, maintain cleanliness in the kitchen and dining areas, and dispose of trash properly

Teaching Assistant at Isla Vista Youth Projects (2023-10 – 2024-02)

• Develop and implement age-appropriate lesson plans that stimulate physical, emotional, intellectual, and social growth in children
• Create a safe, nurturing, and engaging learning environment for children aged 3-5 years
• Monitor and assess each child's progress, providing individualized attention and support as needed
• Foster positive relationships with children, parents, and colleagues, ensuring open communication and collaboration
• Organize and lead activities that promote creativity, critical thinking, and cooperative play
• Maintain classroom discipline and manage challenging behaviors using positive guidance techniques
• Conduct regular parent-teacher conferences to discuss children's development and address any concerns
• Ensure compliance with state licensing regulations and preschool policies regarding health, safety, and educational standards
• Participate in ongoing professional development to stay current with best practices in early childhood education

PM Baker at Hook and Press Donuts (2023-04 – 2023-10)

• Prepare and bake a variety of donuts, pastries, and other baked goods according to established recipes and quality standards
• Mix, knead, and shape dough to produce consistent and high-quality products
• Operate and maintain bakery equipment, including mixers, ovens, fryers, and other tools
• Monitor the baking process, ensuring products are baked to the correct temperature and appearance
• Decorate and finish donuts with glazes, icings, and toppings to enhance their visual appeal
• Ensure cleanliness and organization of the kitchen and bakery area, adhering to health and safety regulations
• Manage inventory of baking ingredients and supplies, placing orders as needed to maintain stock levels
• Collaborate with team members to meet daily production goals and ensure customer satisfaction
• Assist with developing new recipes and menu items based on customer preferences and trends

Pastry Cook at San Ysidro Ranch (2022-03 – 2023-03)

• Perform thorough prep work in the kitchen, ensuring all ingredients and components are ready for daily service
• Create and execute a variety of pastry items, including coating Alaskas, pulling cookies, making muffin batters, and cutting bread
• Prepare and maintain bread leaven, chocolate sauces, and other foundational elements of pastry dishes
• Spin and scoop ice cream, ensuring perfect texture and flavor for each service
• Ensure proper storage and handling of all products, including placing bowls in the freezer and bagging lemon curd
• Prepare and design chocolate writing plates for an elegant presentation
• Quickly and efficiently prepare and plate orders to meet high standards of quality and presentation for service
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workstation, adhering to all health and safety regulations
• Collaborate with the culinary team to ensure a smooth and seamless service, anticipating and addressing any potential issues

Babysitter at Babysitting (2018-11 – Present)

• Provided attentive and nurturing care for children ranging from newborn to age 12
• Changed diapers, prepared and fed meals, and ensured children were clean and comfortable
• Bathed and assisted with bedtime routines, promoting a calming and secure environment
• Facilitated early childhood development by teaching walking, speaking, and introducing basic educational concepts such as animals, shapes, numbers, and letters
• Engaged children in age-appropriate activities to stimulate cognitive and social skills
• Ensured the safety and well-being of up to 4 children simultaneously, maintaining constant supervision
• Managed household tasks related to childcare, including light housekeeping and organizing play areas
• Communicated effectively with parents regarding daily activities, progress, and any concerns

Karate Teacher at Macomber Karate (2020-10 – 2022-06)

• Lead and instruct students, primarily children, in martial arts classes, focusing on techniques such as kicks, punches, throws, escapes, and self-defense
• Foster a positive and supportive learning environment that promotes discipline, respect, self-confidence, and physical fitness
• Teach fundamental principles of karate, emphasizing work ethic, discipline, honor, and perseverance
• Plan and execute engaging and age-appropriate lesson plans that cater to varying skill levels and learning styles
• Demonstrate proper techniques and provide individualized feedback to students to improve their skills and development
• Ensure safety during classes, enforcing rules and guidelines for sparring, exercises, and techniques
• Organize and oversee belt testing and promotions based on student's progress and mastery of the curriculum
• Collaborate with parents to discuss students' progress, achievements, and areas for improvement
• Participate in professional development workshops and training to enhance teaching skills and knowledge of martial arts

Associate's degree in Advanced Culinary Art – Santa Barbara City College (2021-08 – 2023-05)