kitchen manager, full time

About the role

The Kitchen Manager has overall day-to-day responsibility for Smithburg's kitchen operation. This is a hands-on management role working cooperatively with the Head Chef. The Kitchen Manager is expected to lead service, manage performance, drive standards and take ownership of prep, cleaning, food safety and the commercial and operational performance of the kitchen.

Key responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen during service
• Ensure every dish is prepared to Smithburg standards
• Take primary operational responsibility for kitchen food safety and cleanliness
• Take primary responsibility for the kitchen prep schedule
• Monitor food cost and identify adverse movements, control portion sizes and investigate excessive waste
• Contribute to kitchen rosters according to forecast sales and approved labour targets
• Set clear standards and expectations for the kitchen team, provide coaching and feedback, and train staff in recipes, equipment, food safety and kitchen procedures

About you

• Significant experience working in a busy commercial kitchen
• Previous responsibility for supervising or managing kitchen staff
• Strong service leadership skills
• Sound understanding of food safety requirements
• Experience with ordering, stocktakes and inventory control
• Understanding of food cost, yield, portion control and waste
• Ability to roster and deploy staff efficiently
• Strong organisational and prep-planning skills
• Experience in burgers, high-volume casual dining or diners with similar operations would be particularly relevant

About us

Smithburg is an all-day diner located at the South Melbourne Market. Our menu is built around smash burgers, lobster rolls, pancakes, margaritas and a good time. Our focus is matching warm, diner style service with casual food executed to an incredibly high standard.