Kitchen Operations Manager

Kitchen Operations Manager

We're launching an exciting new fast-casual concept in New York City and are looking for a Kitchen Operations Manager to help build something special from the ground up.

This is not a traditional Executive Chef or culinary innovation role. Our menu is intentionally streamlined, allowing our leaders to focus on what matters most—developing people, creating efficient systems, delivering consistent quality, and building an incredible culture.

If you're passionate about leading teams, coaching future leaders, and running an organized, high-performing operation, we'd love to meet you.

What You'll Do

As the Kitchen Operations Manager, you'll be responsible for creating a kitchen that operates with speed, consistency, and excellence every day.

Responsibilities include:

• Lead, coach, and develop an hourly team through positive, hands-on leadership
• Hire, onboard, train, and retain top talent while fostering a strong team culture
• Ensure every guest receives consistent, high-quality food with every order
• Drive food safety, sanitation, cleanliness, and health department compliance
• Manage inventory, ordering, food cost, waste, and labor efficiency
• Build schedules that support the business while developing your team
• Create systems and processes that improve execution and efficiency
• Lead by example—working alongside your team during peak service
• Partner with ownership to continuously improve operations as the company grows

We're Looking For Someone Who...

• Has management experience in a high-volume fast casual or QSR environment
• Is a strong people developer who enjoys coaching and mentoring others
• Leads with humility, accountability, and a "no ego" mentality
• Can build trust, create culture, and hold teams accountable
• Thrives in fast-paced, high-energy environments
• Is organized, detail-oriented, and solutions-driven
• Understands food safety, inventory management, labor management, and operational excellence
• Stays calm under pressure and enjoys solving problems
• Wants to grow with an expanding company

Bonus Points If You Have Experience With

While this role is primarily kitchen-focused, we're looking for someone who is comfortable supporting the overall operation when needed, including:

• Employee scheduling and labor management
• Payroll administration
• POS systems and basic technology troubleshooting
• Third-party delivery platforms
• Guest recovery and customer service
• Opening and closing restaurant operations
• Cross-training both Front of House and Back of House teams

What Success Looks Like

Our ideal leader isn't the most creative chef in the room—they're the person who can build a team that people love working for.

You're someone who develops future leaders, creates structure without bureaucracy, takes ownership of problems, communicates with respect, and isn't afraid to jump onto the line during a busy lunch rush. You understand that great operations start with great people.

If you're excited about helping build a growing brand from the beginning while making a meaningful impact on the culture and success of the business, we'd love to hear from you.