Kitchen Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Job Description: Kitchen ManagerReports To: Cafe General Manager, Blue Mango Executive TeamJob Status: Full Time, Hourly, Non-ExemptALMA ("soul" in Spanish and Portuguese) is a neighborhood coffeehouse built around the heart of a farmers market - rooted in community, seasonal produce from local farms and makers, and genuine hospitality. With an excellent coffee program, baked goods, savory menus, takeout, and a small beer and wine list, we aim to be a warm and welcoming spot for both locals and tourists in San Luis Obispo. We are currently seeking a kitchen manager to join our team!The Role: Reporting to the Cafe GM, the Kitchen Manager acts as the "point person" for all back of house activity. You will bridge the gap between the kitchen and FOH leadership, ensuring that all dine-in guests and takeout/catering orders alike receive the same level of quality. This is a role for a leader who enjoys the craft of a small kitchen. You'll be responsible for directing the flow of orders, keeping prep on track, and mentoring the team to keep our standards high without losing the personal touch that defines our cafe.Our three core values shape everything we do: Authenticity, Respect, & Enthusiasm. Primary Duties and Responsibilities:Service Leadership & FlowAct as the go-to person in the kitchen during your shift, keeping the team on track so that orders come out at the right paceLead by example with warmth and genuine hospitality, inspiring the team to make every guest feel welcome and valuedManage the daily rhythm of prep, cooking, and plating to deliver high quality dishes throughout the shiftHelp the team stay updated on daily specials or menu changes based on seasonal changesSupport expediting as needed; monitor ticket times and menu availability, communicating with FOH teamKeep the opening/closing docs updated and make sure the next shift knows exactly what's prepped and what's 86'dProactively prioritize orders, adjust workflow, and prevent service bottlenecksAddress operational issues in real time and escalate to GM as appropriateQuality Standards & Food SafetyEnsure all recipes, prep, and food execution meet established specifications and quality standardsSet the standard for a clean kitchen by modeling excellent food safety habits and making sure the team treats our equipment with careKeep an eye on our facility/equipment, noting any maintenance needs in MaintainXOversee and monitor daily prep levels and product usage to avoid shortages, over prep, or unnecessary wasteExecute orders with a focus on all service channels, from plated meals to catering and deliveryTraining & Team DevelopmentSupport the training and development of the BOH team, helping new hires feel confident in their rolesAssist the GM with BOH coaching, performance accountability, and participating in the hiring and onboarding processModel reliability and accountability in your attendance, communication, and overall work ethicKeep positive, professional relationships across both FOH and BOH teams Required Skills and Abilities:1-2 years of supervisory experience in a cafe, coffeehouse, or kitchen environmentA genuine passion for great food, seasonal produce, specialty coffee, and local sourcingStrong leadership and communication skills with a coach's mentality and the ability to give feedback with compassion and directnessA natural ability to anticipate the needs of guests and the teamComfortable using Toast POS and Google Workspace for daily reporting, ordering, and inventoryDedication to creating a positive, productive environment that reflects our culture and standardsProactive and self-motivated, with strong integrity and a collaborative mindsetPractical knowledge of how to manage labor, waste, and food costs to support the kitchen's successExperience with scheduling, labor compliance, and basic HR responsibilities like training and coachingStrong understanding of food safety and sanitation; ServSafe Manager certification required (training + exam provided)A proactive, reliable leader who stays composed and professional during busy shiftsOrganized and accurate when it comes to ordering, inventory counts, and shift documentationEnergized by ambitious goals and always looking for ways to improveFlexible availability, including mornings, weekends, and holidays Physical Requirements:High level of stamina to work on feet for extended periods (be able to work in a standing, upright position for long periods of time up to 8 hoursAbility to occasionally lift, move, and transport furniture, equipment, and deliveries up to 50 pounds Disclaimer: This description includes essential functions. Additional functions and requirements may be assigned by supervisors as deemed appropriate. In accordance with California law and the Americans with Disabilities Act, requirements may be modified to reasonably accommodate disabled individuals. We are an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive and welcoming workplace for all. We welcome applicants from a wide variety of identities, ideas, perspectives and experiences and encourage people from underrepresented backgrounds to apply. ALMA offers reasonable accommodations to job applicants with disabilities.