
Nikolai Trujillo
Chef
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About
am a dedicated professional with nearly a decade of experience supporting nonprofit organizations through employment, volunteer service, and community advocacy. Throughout my career, I have developed strong skills in program support, team leadership, operations, relationship building, and serving diverse populations with compassion and respect. My background has given me firsthand experience working in mission-driven environments where adaptability, collaboration, and a commitment to community impact are essential.
I am passionate about helping organizations fulfill their missions, building meaningful connections with the people they serve, and contributing to programs that create lasting positive change. I bring a strong work ethic, a service-oriented mindset, and a genuine commitment to supporting both organizational goals and community needs.
Experience
Lead Cook / Cook III at Family Promise of Tualatin Valley (2025-10 – 2026-05)
- Create, manage, and order inventory
- Manage multiple departments
- Help manage portion and cost control
- Coach and instruct volunteers with preparation and service of food
- Create and manage system to help with efficiency and budget
- Plan and execute meals for shelter guests
Private Chef at Independent Contractor (2019-06 – 2025-03)
- Active reduce food costs by reducing food waste by 35 percent
- Manage staff to ensure food safety and health regulations were routinely met
- Created and executed specialty menus for events
- Hire, train and supervise staff when needed
- Applied knowledge of various cuisines and flavor profiles
- Use Excel to keep track of food costs
Executive Chef at Le Menu (2019-05 – 2021-12)
- Directed kitchen operations, ensuring quality and compliance
- Managed and trained culinary staff for efficiency and collaboration
- Designed seasonal menus aligned with brand identity
- Controlled inventory, budgeting, and cost efficiency
- Improved kitchen workflow and reduced waste
- Partnered with front-of-house to enhance guest experience
Education
BBA in Finance – University of New Mexico (2019-08)
AAS in Culinary Arts – Central New Mexico Community College (2015-08 – 2019-05)