Kitchen Lead

Ollie’s Market & Deli is a new neighborhood market and deli opening soon! We’re focused on quality food, thoughtful preparation, and an inviting customer experience. We’re building a small, professional team and are looking for experienced people who take pride in their work and appreciate the details.

We are seeking a full-time Lead Prep Cook / Kitchen Lead to work directly alongside the chef/owner and take ownership of daily kitchen operations. You’ll be responsible for prep and production, sandwich preparation, catering fulfillment, receiving deliveries, and maintaining a clean, organized, efficient kitchen.

The chef will work alongside you and provide direction, but will also be managing the overall business. We’re looking for someone who is confident, organized, proactive, and comfortable working independently. You should notice what needs to be done and take care of it without waiting to be asked.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Execute daily prep and production according to established recipes and standards
• Prepare sandwiches, deli offerings, prepared foods, salads, and other menu items
• Execute catering orders accurately, efficiently, and on schedule
• Receive, inspect, label, date, organize, and properly store deliveries
• Maintain proper food handling, sanitation, and storage procedures
• Maintain a clean, organized, and service-ready kitchen
• Monitor prep levels and communicate production needs
• Assist with inventory management and waste control
• Communicate clearly with the front-of-house team regarding products, availability, and special orders
• Assist with opening and closing kitchen responsibilities
• Work with the chef/owner to prioritize daily production and catering needs
• Maintain consistent portioning, presentation, quality, and timing

REQUIREMENTS:

• 2+ years of professional kitchen experience required
• Lead cook, sous chef, kitchen manager, or comparable leadership experience preferred
• Strong understanding of culinary terminology, cooking techniques, and food preparation
• Ability to accurately follow recipes, production specifications, and portion standards
• Excellent communication and organizational skills
• Strong sense of urgency and attention to detail
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and work independently
• High standards for cleanliness, sanitation, and organization
• Reliable and punctual
• Professional attitude and strong work ethic
• ServSafe certification preferred
• Comfortable regularly lifting and carrying cases of food and supplies and remaining on your feet throughout the shift

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE:

You should be a competent, experienced kitchen professional who understands that getting the food right is only part of the job. Prep, labeling, organization, cleanliness, timing, communication, consistency, and presentation all matter.

You should see what needs to be done and take care of it. You should be comfortable working quickly when necessary without becoming careless, and take pride in leaving your workspace better than you found it.

We also believe Ollie’s should be an enjoyable place to work — a professional kitchen without unnecessary drama, a strong team environment, good food, mutual respect, and pride in what we’re building.

OUR CORE STANDARDS:
Professionalism, respect, cleanliness, organization, accuracy, communication, consistency, and urgency are essential to the Ollie’s culture.

COMPENSATION:
$18–$21/hour + tips + performance bonuses
Starting wage will be based on experience and qualifications.

SCHEDULE:

Closed Monday & Tuesday

• Wednesday–Friday: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM
• Saturday–Sunday: 8:00 AM–3:00 PM

Shifts include approximately 1–1.5 hours of pre-opening preparation and 30 minutes of post-close responsibilities. The chef will participate in opening and closing shifts as needed to help keep the position close to 40 hours per week.

Looking for applicants who can start immediately.