Kitchen Lead

Reports To: Head Chef / Kitchen Management

Position Summary

The Kitchen Lead works closely with the Head Chef to ensure daily kitchen operations run smoothly, efficiently, and consistently. This position helps oversee daily tasks, assists with food ordering and inventory management, and takes the lead in kitchen operations in the absence of the Head Chef.

We are looking for an experienced, dependable, and hands-on kitchen professional who can confidently work multiple stations, support the kitchen team, and maintain high standards for food quality, cleanliness, organization, and execution. The ideal candidate is a well-rounded cook with strong leadership skills, a team-oriented attitude, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced restaurant environment.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Operations & Leadership

• Work alongside the Head Chef to manage and complete daily kitchen tasks.
• Lead kitchen operations in the absence of the Head Chef, ensuring service runs smoothly and efficiently.
• Assist with delegating tasks, prioritizing prep work, and keeping the kitchen team organized.
• Set a positive example through strong work ethic, accountability, communication, and teamwork.
• Step into any kitchen position as needed to support service and maintain consistent ticket times.

Food Ordering & Inventory

• Assist the Head Chef with food orders, inventory counts, and stock organization.
• Monitor product levels and communicate shortages, waste, and ordering needs to management.
• Help maintain appropriate pars and ensure ingredients are stored, rotated, and handled properly.
• Support cost-control efforts by minimizing waste and following portioning and preparation standards.

Food Quality & Kitchen Standards

• Ensure all food is prepared and presented according to established recipes and quality standards.
• Maintain proper food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness practices throughout every shift.
• Ensure prep lists, station setups, and closing duties are completed accurately and on time.
• Help maintain an organized, clean, and service-ready kitchen.
• Identify operational issues and communicate solutions to the Head Chef or management.

Team Support & Training

• Assist with training and supporting kitchen team members.
• Help ensure employees understand their responsibilities, station procedures, and kitchen standards.
• Promote accountability, professionalism, and a collaborative team environment.
• Communicate effectively with front-of-house staff and management to support a successful service.

Qualifications & Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of professional kitchen experience.
• Minimum of 2 years in a supervisory, lead cook, or kitchen leadership role.
• Proven ability to work multiple kitchen stations confidently and independently.
• Strong understanding of kitchen preparation, cooking techniques, food safety, and sanitation.
• Experience assisting with food ordering, inventory, and product rotation preferred.
• Ability to lead a team, delegate tasks, and make sound decisions during busy services.
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Dependable, punctual, and able to work nights, weekends, and holidays as required.
• Ability to remain calm, efficient, and professional in a fast-paced environment.

Expectations for Success

The Kitchen Lead is expected to be a hands-on leader who is willing to jump in wherever needed. This person must be capable of managing multiple responsibilities, supporting the Head Chef, and taking ownership of kitchen operations when leadership coverage is needed.

The successful candidate will help create a kitchen environment built on consistency, accountability, teamwork, and pride in the food we serve.

Pay: $22.00 - $25.00 per hour

Work Location: In person