Cook/Kitchen Manager

Gourmand Market is a boutique gourmet market located in the vibrant SouthPark area of Charlotte. This establishment offers much more than just a place to eat; it is a multifaceted destination featuring a café, full bar, retail and gift shop, and event space. Gourmand Market has cultivated a unique and integrated experience for its guests, who visit for coffee and pastries, dine-in meals, grab-and-go food options, curated retail items, fine wine and cocktails, catering services, cooking classes, tastings, and community events. Because the concept is intentionally small and highly integrated, every employee is immersed in learning the fundamentals of neighboring roles, which promotes a dynamic and communicative working environment. This approach ensures a seamless guest experience, with clear communication flowing across all departments.

The role available at Gourmand Market is a hands-on kitchen leadership position that is central to the success of the food service operation. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to lead by example and actively participate in line execution while managing prep, production, food safety, inventory, and team accountability. This is a full-time position offering competitive compensation ranging between $18 and $22 per hour, depending on experience. The schedule is flexible but requires availability during daytime and evening hours, including weekends, holidays, and events, with a workplace located on-site in SouthPark, Charlotte. Reporting directly to the owner and designated operations lead, this role is poised to make a significant impact on the daily operational flow of the kitchen and the overall guest experience.

This position is ideal for a professional who combines strong culinary skills with polished judgment and an ability to organize and act with urgency. It demands leadership that doesn't just supervise from the sidelines but engages actively in all facets of kitchen operation. The person in this role will work alongside the team, ensuring that food is prepared and presented consistently and efficiently according to the highest standards. Responsibilities include managing prep and production for multiple programs such as made-to-order meals, grab-and-go items, the deli, frozen selections, and catering services. A critical aspect of the job is maintaining rigorous food safety and presentation standards, keeping the kitchen organized and production-ready at all times.

The kitchen leader will be responsible for maintaining recipes, portion standards, labels, shelf life controls, and compliance with Date Code Genie regulations. They will monitor inventory levels, establish par counts, prepare orders, and proactively communicate any shortages before they escalate into problems. Proper food safety protocols such as FIFO rotation and sanitation standards must be upheld vigilantly. Additionally, this role involves using software tools like Toast and XtraCHEF to support menu management, costing, and production processes. The ability to train, direct, and hold kitchen staff accountable during shifts is paramount, alongside maintaining temperature logs and ensuring the kitchen is always inspection-ready.

This position also requires clear coordination with front-of-house, retail, coffee, bar, and event teams to ensure smooth operations and a unified guest experience. Effective problem-solving skills are needed to make appropriate ingredient substitutions and operational adjustments when approved products, staffing, or equipment are unavailable. The role demands a focus on reducing food waste while preserving quality, safety, consistency, and presentation. Continuous improvement of kitchen standard operating procedures, checklists, and production systems falls within the scope of responsibilities.

Successful candidates typically bring two or more years of experience in line, prep, or production kitchens, with prior leadership or sous-chef experience preferred. A strong working knowledge of food safety, sanitation protocols, labeling, storage, and allergen awareness is required. ServSafe Manager certification is preferred or candidates should be willing to obtain this certification promptly. A polished and professional appearance appropriate for a food production environment is expected, along with strong communication skills to provide clear directions and share information across departments. The ideal candidate is a quick learner, highly organized, demonstrates sound judgment, and is aware of the fast-paced kitchen environment.

Leadership qualities are essential for this role; candidates should have a mindset geared toward ownership, pacing, coaching decisively, and enforcing standards. The ability to work independently, prioritize competing demands, and solve problems without constant supervision are critical traits. Physical stamina to stand and move throughout shifts and safely handle routine kitchen lifting and production tasks is necessary.

Overall, success in this role is measured by maintaining organized, timely, and consistent service and production. The kitchen remains inspection-ready at all times, not just before visits. Inventory issues, waste, and quality concerns are caught early and addressed strategically. Employees receive clear direction, meaningful training, and consistent accountability. Ultimately, this kitchen leadership role strengthens the guest experience and helps uphold the visual and operational standards that make Gourmand Market a standout destination.

Working at Gourmand Market means joining a supportive and accountable culture where ideas, judgment, and measurable effort truly matter. Team members benefit from broad cross-training, flexible scheduling designed to support work-life balance, competitive pay, and meaningful opportunities to grow and lead as the business expands. This role offers more than a job; it offers a chance to be part of a distinct and evolving culinary community in SouthPark, Charlotte.