Kitchen Manager

Job Title: Kitchen Manager
Location: Red Bank, NJ
Job Type: Full-Time

We are looking for an experienced and driven Kitchen Manager to lead the culinary team at a high-end, interactive dining experience in Red Bank, NJ. The ideal candidate will be an energetic leader with a passion for exceptional food quality, team development, and operational efficiency. As the Kitchen Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing kitchen operations, maintaining high standards of food preparation and cleanliness, managing inventory, and ensuring the team delivers an unforgettable dining experience for guests.

Key Responsibilities:

Kitchen Operations: Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, ensuring food is prepared to the highest quality standards while maintaining consistency in presentation and taste
Staff Leadership & Development: Lead, train, and motivate kitchen staff, ensuring all team members are well-versed in cooking techniques, food safety, and restaurant standards. Provide continuous coaching and feedback to enhance team performance
Inventory & Ordering: Manage inventory, order supplies, and ensure stock levels are maintained to meet restaurant needs. Control food costs and minimize waste through proper storage, rotation, and portion control
Quality Control: Maintain strict quality control procedures, including regular tastings, quality checks, and ensuring that every dish that leaves the kitchen is perfect
Food Safety & Sanitation: Ensure the kitchen adheres to all health and safety regulations, including food safety, cleanliness, and sanitation standards. Oversee daily cleaning tasks and ensure the kitchen operates in a safe and sanitary environment
Scheduling & Labor Management: Develop and manage kitchen staff schedules to ensure adequate coverage during peak hours and events while controlling labor costs
Menu Development Support: Collaborate with the executive chef and front-of-house management to support menu planning and the introduction of new dishes or specials
Equipment & Maintenance: Monitor kitchen equipment to ensure proper maintenance and function. Troubleshoot and arrange for repairs as needed
Cost Management: Track food costs, portion sizes, and wastage, and implement strategies to meet budgetary goals without sacrificing food quality
Collaboration with Management: Work closely with the front-of-house management to ensure smooth communication between the kitchen and dining area, especially during busy periods
Staff Performance & Reviews: Conduct regular performance reviews, providing feedback and identifying opportunities for development and growth within the kitchen team

Qualifications:

3+ years of experience in kitchen management or similar role, ideally in a high-volume, upscale, or interactive dining environment
Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and manage a diverse kitchen team
Extensive knowledge of cooking techniques, food preparation, and culinary trends
Solid understanding of food safety, sanitation regulations, and kitchen best practices
Excellent communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with both kitchen and front-of-house teams
Experience with inventory management, cost control, and budgeting
Ability to work efficiently under pressure during peak times while maintaining high standards of food quality and cleanliness
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed
Culinary degree or equivalent experience preferred

What We Offer:

Competitive salary and performance-based incentives
Health, dental, and vision benefits
Paid time off and holiday pay
Employee meal discounts
Opportunities for career growth and advancement
A positive, high-energy work environment where team collaboration is encouraged

If you're an experienced Kitchen Manager looking to join a dynamic and growing team, we’d love to hear from you!