Culinary Lead

Sweetgreen is a national restaurant brand committed to building healthier communities by connecting people to real food. Established in 2007, Sweetgreen has transformed the fast-food industry by reimagining it with a focus on fresh, flavorful meals that emphasize sustainable relationships with farmers and local communities. Known for its innovative approach to fast casual dining, Sweetgreen prioritizes food quality, environmental responsibility, and social impact. As the brand continues to expand across the United States, it remains dedicated to developing its employees both in its restaurants and corporate support centers. Joining Sweetgreen means becoming part of a movement where food, people, and a shared purpose come together to create healthier futures for everyone.

The Culinary Lead, also known as the Kitchen Lead at Sweetgreen, is a pivotal position responsible for ensuring food quality in the kitchen. Unlike a traditional people manager role, the Culinary Lead focuses solely on food preparation standards without having to manage scheduling or conduct performance reviews. This role is essential to maintaining Sweetgreen's high standards for flavor, food safety, and presentation. Culinary Leads serve as experts in kitchen operations, guiding and coaching team members to consistently deliver excellent food every shift. The position requires hands-on involvement in prepping and cooking hot food using kitchen tools, knives, and ovens—however, it distinctly excludes the use of grills or fryers, emphasizing Sweetgreen’s commitment to healthier food preparation methods.

As the advocate for food quality on each shift, the Culinary Lead identifies and resolves issues quickly while managing kitchen workflow by staying ahead of volume and timing prep according to restaurant needs. Collaboration with Shift Leaders and Managers ensures that food safety, cleanliness, and operational excellence are upheld throughout shifts. This role is ideal for candidates who thrive in fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environments such as fast casual, quick service, or corporate dining, and who take pride in consistent, clean kitchen execution.

Sweetgreen offers Culinary Leads a clear path to progression, with successful team members often advancing to General Manager roles within two to three years. Employment offers competitive wages, with additional perks like tips (depending on location), medical, dental, and vision benefits for part-time and full-time employees, paid vacation and parental leave, free meals every shift, 401(k) options, and access to a team merchandise shop. The company also fosters an inclusive, supportive culture aligned with equal opportunity employment policies.

This role demands physical stamina, attention to detail, and a consistent commitment to food safety practices, including ServSafe or Food Handler certification. Candidates must be able to work a minimum of 30 hours per week and be authorized to work in the United States. Sweetgreen stands out as an employer that offers leadership opportunities without the pressures of full people management, making it a great fit for those passionate about culinary craft and food service excellence.