Associate Chef - Now Hiring

Sweetgreen is a nationally recognized restaurant brand that has been dedicated to fostering healthier communities by connecting people to real, wholesome food since 2007. Known for revolutionizing the concept of fast food, Sweetgreen offers fresh, flavorful meals that are thoughtfully prepared, focusing on sustainable sourcing and strong relationships with farmers and communities. Committed to nurturing growth among its team members, Sweetgreen emphasizes inclusivity, diversity, and equal opportunity, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds and ensuring they have opportunities for career advancement and professional development. The company not only provides nutritious food options but also fosters a welcoming environment where food, people, and purpose come together harmoniously.

The Culinary Lead role, known internally as Kitchen Lead, positions you as a pivotal expert in food quality within Sweetgreen's kitchen environment. Unlike traditional kitchen roles, this position features a unique approach that excludes grills and fryers, opting instead for efficient kitchens, smart systems, and the meticulous preparation of real food. Your core responsibility lies in owning the standards of food preparation, cooking, and presentation, guaranteeing that every food item meets Sweetgreen’s high expectations for flavor, food safety, and aesthetic appeal. You will lead by example through dedicated craftsmanship, consistent execution, and coaching your teammates to uphold these standards.

This role is distinct in that it does not involve people management tasks such as creating schedules or conducting performance reviews. Instead, it centers on setting the benchmark for how food is prepared during each shift, making you the go-to person for kitchen execution and food quality. Your expertise will help ensure smooth kitchen operations by managing prep timing, inventory par levels, and providing real-time feedback to team members to elevate their food execution skills. You will also collaborate closely with Shift Leaders and Managers to maintain high standards of food safety, cleanliness, and overall operational excellence.

Ideal candidates for the Culinary Lead role have a passion for kitchen work and take pride in producing consistent, high-quality food while maintaining a clean work environment. This position suits those who want leadership responsibility without the direct supervision of staff, enjoy mentoring peers, and thrive in a high-volume kitchen setting, be it fast casual, quick-service restaurants (QSR), full-service, or corporate dining. This role offers a career path with clear opportunities for advancement, where top-performing Kitchen Leads can move into General Manager positions within two to three years.

Sweetgreen’s benefits further enhance the experience with competitive wages, eligibility for tips depending on location and role, and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision plans for both part-time and full-time employees. Additional perks include paid vacation, wellness time, parental leave, free meals during shifts, a 401(k) plan, and access to an exclusive Team Member Merch Shop where employees can earn and purchase custom Sweetgreen gear. Sweetgreen values the physical readiness of its team members to meet the demands of the role, including comfort with standing for extended periods, handling weights, and upholding strict food safety protocols like Food Handler or ServSafe certification. This opportunity is not only a chance to contribute meaningful work that impacts community health but also a platform for personal and professional growth within an innovative and socially responsible company.