CEDAR HOUSE - Lead Kitchen

Job description

Lead Kitchen

As Lead Kitchen, you are a vital leader in our culinary team, combining hands-on cooking responsibilities with oversight and coordination of the back-of-house operations. You will ensure the kitchen runs smoothly, meals are consistently prepared to the highest standards, and the team works efficiently and collaboratively. This role requires both culinary skill and strong leadership to maintain quality, safety, and team performance

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare ingredients for cooking, including chopping vegetables, cutting meat, and gathering spices
• Assist in the cooking process by following recipes and instructions from the head cook
• Cook food items according to established standards and recipes
• Ensure food is cooked evenly and at the correct temperature
• Plate and present dishes in an appealing and appetizing manner
• Maintain a clean and organized work area
• Follow all safety and sanitation procedures

Leadership & Operations

• Serve as the point of contact for kitchen staff during shifts, answering questions and resolving issues as they arise.
• Assign and oversee prep and line duties to ensure timely service and balanced workload.
• Communicate clearly with front-of-house staff to ensure coordination between kitchen and service.
• Monitor kitchen flow and jump in where needed to maintain efficiency.
• Train new kitchen staff and provide ongoing guidance to improve performance and consistency.
• Lead by example in enforcing kitchen policies, food safety protocols, and workplace standards.
• Conduct pre-shift and end-of-shift checks for readiness, cleanliness, and inventory needs.
• Assist in managing inventory, food prep lists, and daily station checklists.

Skills:

• Proven experience as a line cook, prep cook, or lead cook.
• Solid understanding of kitchen operations and food preparation techniques.
• Knowledge of food safety standards, ServSafe certification a plus.
• Strong communication and leadership skills.
• Ability to multitask, prioritize, and maintain composure in high-pressure environments.
• A team-first attitude with a passion for mentoring and helping others succeed.
• Dependable and punctual with a strong work ethic and attention to detail.
  

Please note that this position may also involve assisting with catering events as needed.

If you are passionate about cooking and enjoy working in a dynamic kitchen environment, we would love to hear from you!

Job Type: Full-time

Expected hours: No less than 30 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
  
• Employee discount
• Health insurance (for qualified applicants)
• Paid sick time
  

Shift:

• 8 hour shift
• Day shift
• Evening shift
• Morning shift
• Night shift

Experience:

• Restaurant experience: 3 years (Preferred)

License/Certification:

• Food Safety Certification (Preferred)

Shift availability:

• Day Shift (Preferred)
• Night Shift (Preferred)