Kitchen Manager

Job Description

Kitchen Manager

Zest Culinary Services (formerly MMI Dining Systems) is seeking a Kitchen Manager to lead our culinary team at our contract location in Jackson, MS.


This is an ideal opportunity for someone who loves the hospitality industry but is looking for a better work-life balance. Our normal schedule is Monday through Friday, with weekends and holidays off. While occasional emergencies may require weekend coverage a few times each year, this position offers a consistent weekday schedule.

As the Kitchen Manager, you will oversee all food and beverage operations, including food preparation, restaurant service, banquet and catering operations, and lounge service. This hands-on leadership role is responsible for delivering an exceptional guest experience while maintaining high standards for food quality, sanitation, and operational efficiency.

Responsibilities include:

• Leading and developing the kitchen and food service team
• Preparing and overseeing high-quality food production
• Creating innovative menus while managing food costs
• Managing inventory, ordering, and receiving
• Ensuring compliance with all food safety and sanitation standards
• Overseeing banquet and catering food operations
• Managing labor costs and departmental budgets
• Maintaining quality, consistency, and outstanding guest satisfaction

Qualifications:

• At least three years of management or supervisory experience in a hotel or full-service restaurant preferred
• Strong culinary skills with the ability to lead by example in the kitchen
• Experience training and developing both front-of-house and back-of-house team members
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards
• Experience with inventory management, food cost control, budgeting, and P&L statements
• Excellent leadership, organizational, and communication skills

Zest Culinary Services fosters a worker environment that is inclusive as well as diverse, where our team members can be themselves. Zest Culinary Services is an Equal Opportunity Employer and a member of E-Verify. All qualified applicants, including minorities, women, protected veterans and individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply.