Kitchen Manager

Kitchen Manager

Columbus, OH

Direct Hire / Full Time

Position Overview:

We’re looking for a hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead our back-of-house team in a fast-paced, high-volume sports bar environment. This is a great opportunity for an experienced kitchen leader who enjoys being on the floor, developing a team, and making sure every shift runs smoothly. The Kitchen Manager will oversee daily kitchen operations, food quality and consistency, staffing, cleanliness, inventory, and overall execution. The right person will be a strong leader who can set the tone for the kitchen, keep the team motivated, and maintain high standards even when business gets busy.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead the Team

• Lead, train, coach, and develop kitchen staff.

• Create a positive, respectful, and team-oriented kitchen culture.

• Set clear expectations and hold the team accountable to established standards.

• Delegate responsibilities effectively and make sure the kitchen is properly staffed and prepared.

• Provide hands-on coaching and feedback during service.

• Assist with interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and training new team members.

Run the Kitchen

• Oversee day-to-day back-of-house operations and lead the kitchen during service.

• Ensure food is prepared and served accurately, consistently, and on time.

• Maintain recipe, portion, quality, and presentation standards.

• Ensure prep is completed and the kitchen is ready for each shift.

• Keep communication strong between the kitchen and front-of-house teams.

• Stay calm and make good decisions during busy shifts and high-volume periods.

• Jump in and work alongside the team when needed.

Food Safety & Cleanliness

• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen.

• Ensure proper food handling, storage, labeling, rotation, and temperature procedures.

• Follow all health department and food safety requirements.

• Ensure kitchen equipment and work areas are properly maintained.

• Address cleanliness or safety issues immediately.

Inventory & Cost Control

• Assist with ordering and receiving food and kitchen supplies.

• Monitor inventory levels and product usage.

• Maintain portion control and minimize food waste.

• Conduct inventory counts and help manage food costs.

• Ensure products are properly stored and rotated.

What We’re Looking For

• 2+ years of kitchen leadership experience as a Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef, Chef, or similar role.

• Experience in a high-volume restaurant, sports bar, casual dining, or similar environment preferred.

• Strong understanding of commercial kitchen operations and food safety.

• A hands-on leadership style and the ability to lead by example.

• Someone who can coach a team while also holding people accountable.

• Organized, dependable, and able to stay composed under pressure.

• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.

• Comfortable working nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.

• ServSafe or other food safety certification is a plus.

Why This Role?

This is an opportunity for a kitchen leader who wants to be part of a team, have a voice in the operation, and take ownership of the kitchen. We’re looking for someone who takes pride in great food, a clean and organized kitchen, and building a team that enjoys working together.

If you’re an experienced kitchen leader who thrives in a busy environment and enjoys the energy of a sports bar, we’d like to hear from you.