Kitchen Manager

Job Description

Kitchen Manager

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Wondergate | San Diego, CA

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Full-time · On-site · $30 per hour

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About the Role

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Wondergate is seeking a hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead daily kitchen operations and deliver consistent, high-quality food in a fast-paced hospitality and nightlife environment.

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Reporting to the General Manager, you will oversee food preparation, kitchen staff, inventory, cleanliness, and food safety while controlling costs and keeping service running smoothly. You will actively cook, prep, and plate alongside your team, setting the standard for quality, efficiency, and professionalism.

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This position requires full-time, on-site work in San Diego, including late nights, weekends, and holidays.

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Responsibilities

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• Lead daily kitchen operations, including preparation, service, opening, and closing.
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• Prepare and plate food to established recipes, portion sizes, and presentation standards.
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• Supervise, train, and coach kitchen staff to maintain consistent quality and efficient service.
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• Coordinate kitchen scheduling and shift coverage with the General Manager.
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• Manage ordering, receiving, storage, stock rotation, and inventory counts.
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• Monitor food costs, kitchen labor, portions, and waste; identify and implement improvements.
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• Contribute menu ideas and recipe improvements, coordinating changes and pricing with leadership.
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• Maintain kitchen cleanliness, sanitation, temperature records, and inspection readiness.
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• Ensure proper food handling, allergen procedures, labeling, and storage.
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• Coordinate with front-of-house staff on ticket times, special requests, and menu availability.
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• Monitor equipment condition and promptly report maintenance or safety concerns.
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• Maintain an organized kitchen and a professional, accountable working environment.
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Qualifications

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• Minimum of three years of relevant culinary experience, including kitchen leadership or supervisory responsibilities.
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• Experience as a Kitchen Manager, Kitchen Lead, Sous Chef, or comparable supervisor.
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• Strong cooking skills and the ability to lead a team during busy service.
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• Working knowledge of inventory management, purchasing, food costs, and waste control.
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• Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and allergen handling.
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• Current food-safety credentials appropriate to the position.
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• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
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• Ability to remain calm under pressure and resolve problems quickly.
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• Culinary training preferred; equivalent practical experience welcome.
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• Availability to work full-time on-site in San Diego, including late nights, weekends, and holidays.
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Compensation & Benefits

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• $30 per hour
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• Full-time position
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• 401(k) retirement plan
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• Two weeks of paid time off annually
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• Paid sick leave
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• Employee perks
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• Career advancement opportunities
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• Collaborative work environment
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How to Apply

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Submit your résumé and a brief cover letter describing your kitchen leadership experience, the types of kitchens you have worked in, and your availability. Include examples of how you have maintained food quality, developed kitchen staff, or improved kitchen efficiency.