Kitchen Manager

Job Description

Job Description

KITCHEN MANAGER
Position Type: Full-Time Management
Reports To: General Manager

Position Overview

We are seeking a hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead our kitchen operations in a high-energy entertainment venue setting. The ideal candidate combines strong operational expertise with proven leadership skills and a passion for maintaining exceptional quality standards while managing food costs effectively.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Kitchen Operations

• Manage daily kitchen operations for high-volume food service
• Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and adherence to recipes and brand standards
• Oversee all food preparation and coordinate seamlessly with front-of-house and bar teams
• Monitor and control food costs, waste, and inventory levels
• Maintain full compliance with health department regulations and food safety standards
• Manage kitchen equipment maintenance and coordinate repairs promptly

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, hire, train, and develop a high-performing kitchen team
• Create and manage work schedules to optimize labor costs and service coverage
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and development
• Foster a positive, productive team culture and resolve conflicts professionally
• Implement and enforce safety training programs and protocols
• Lead by example with hands-on participation during peak service periods

Financial Management

• Monitor food costs and gross profit margins to achieve budget targets
• Collaborate on menu costing and pricing strategies
• Manage vendor relationships and make informed purchasing decisions
• Participate in budget planning and implement cost control initiatives

Administrative Duties

• Maintain accurate records of inventory, labor, and operational metrics
• Prepare daily, weekly, and monthly reports for management review
• Document safety incidents and corrective actions appropriately
• Participate in management meetings and strategic planning sessions

QUALIFICATIONS

Experience Required

• Minimum 3 years of kitchen management experience in high-volume restaurant operations
• 5+ years total professional foodservice experience
• Proven track record managing teams of 8+ employees
• Experience with food cost control and inventory management
• Preferred: Previous experience in bar/entertainment venue environments

Education & Certifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional training preferred
• ServSafe Manager Certification required (must obtain within 30 days if not currently certified)
• Valid driver's license

Skills & Competencies

• Strong leadership and team management capabilities
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Proficiency with POS systems and kitchen management software
• Solid understanding of food costs, inventory control, and P&L fundamentals
• Ability to perform effectively under pressure in fast-paced environments
• Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities
• Comprehensive knowledge of current food safety regulations and best practices

PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS & SCHEDULE

Physical Demands

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (8+ hours)
• Manual dexterity for food preparation and equipment operation
• Capable of working in a fast-paced, high-energy environment

Schedule Requirements

• Hours: Average 50 hours per week
• Shift: Primarily evenings/nights (typical shift: 3:00 PM - 12:00 AM)
• Availability: Must be flexible for nights, weekends, holidays, special events, and peak business periods

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

Salary & Time Off

• Base Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience
• Paid Time Off (Year One):
• • 15 days PTO
• Holiday Pay: All major holidays.

Work Environment

Fast-paced, high-energy entertainment venue with a dynamic team culture

Located in Detroit’s historic Corktown neighborhood, The Yard at Corktown is a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination that brings together great food, drinks, games, and social experiences under one roof. Designed to capture the feel of an oversized backyard gathering, The Yard features indoor and outdoor spaces where guests can relax, connect, and enjoy everything from axe throwing and darts to shuffleboard, cornhole, pinball, giant yard games, and hundreds of board games.
More than just a bar or restaurant, The Yard offers a unique social atmosphere that encourages friendly competition, group outings, and memorable celebrations. Guests can enjoy craft cocktails, beer, and a menu of crowd-pleasing favorites while taking advantage of over 12,000 square feet of entertainment space. Whether you're planning a corporate event, private party, date night, or casual get-together with friends, The Yard delivers an interactive experience unlike anywhere else in Detroit.
Known for its laid-back energy and welcoming vibe, The Yard at Corktown has become a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike. By combining food, drinks, games, and event space in a fun and approachable setting, it offers a fresh take on nightlife and social entertainment in the heart of Detroit.

Company Description

Located in Detroit’s historic Corktown neighborhood, The Yard at Corktown is a one-of-a-kind entertainment destination that brings together great food, drinks, games, and social experiences under one roof. Designed to capture the feel of an oversized backyard gathering, The Yard features indoor and outdoor spaces where guests can relax, connect, and enjoy everything from axe throwing and darts to shuffleboard, cornhole, pinball, giant yard games, and hundreds of board games.\r\nMore than just a bar or restaurant, The Yard offers a unique social atmosphere that encourages friendly competition, group outings, and memorable celebrations. Guests can enjoy craft cocktails, beer, and a menu of crowd-pleasing favorites while taking advantage of over 12,000 square feet of entertainment space. Whether you're planning a corporate event, private party, date night, or casual get-together with friends, The Yard delivers an interactive experience unlike anywhere else in Detroit.\r\nKnown for its laid-back energy and welcoming vibe, The Yard at Corktown has become a favorite gathering place for locals and visitors alike. By combining food, drinks, games, and event space in a fun and approachable setting, it offers a fresh take on nightlife and social entertainment in the heart of Detroit.