Culinary Lead

Sweetgreen is a national restaurant brand that is dedicated to creating healthier communities by connecting people to real food. Established in 2007, Sweetgreen has revolutionized the fast food experience by focusing on fresh, flavorful ingredients and fostering strong relationships with farmers and local communities. With a commitment to sustainability and wellness, Sweetgreen prioritizes quality food that nourishes both body and environment. The company has grown into a recognized leader in the fast casual dining sector by emphasizing transparency, community engagement, and innovative food preparation techniques that set it apart from traditional quick-service restaurants.

Joining Sweetgreen means becoming part of a movement that values both personal and professional growth. The company invests in the development of its people across all levels, from restaurant team members to corporate support staff, creating opportunities for advancement and leadership. Sweetgreen fosters an inclusive, equitable work environment that welcomes diversity and promotes equality regardless of gender, race, age, religion, or veteran status. They also comply with federal programs such as E-Verify and provide accommodations as required by law, ensuring fair and lawful employment practices.

The Culinary Lead role, also known as Kitchen Lead at Sweetgreen, is a critical position focused on food quality and kitchen operations within the restaurant. This is not a people management position; instead, the Culinary Lead acts as the food quality expert who ensures that every dish prepared meets Sweetgreen's high standards for flavor, safety, and presentation. The role involves hands-on cooking and preparation using kitchen tools and ovens (excluding traditional grills and fryers), emphasizing smart, clean, and efficient cooking processes.

The Culinary Lead leads by example through crafting excellent food, providing coaching to teammates, and maintaining consistent quality. While not responsible for scheduling or performance reviews, this role is the go-to resource during shifts for kitchen execution and food safety. The ideal candidate for this role thrives in busy, high-volume kitchens such as fast casual, quick service, or corporate dining environments and enjoys sharing their passion for food quality and preparation techniques with others.

This position is an excellent stepping stone for those looking to grow into leadership roles like Shift Leader or General Manager, with a clear career path typically ranging between 2 to 3 years for high performers. Sweetgreen offers competitive wages, opportunities for tips depending on location and role, and benefits including medical, dental, and vision plans for both part-time and full-time employees. Additional perks include paid vacation, wellness time, parental leave, free meals every shift, a 401(k) retirement plan, and access to a team member merchandise shop.

Sweetgreen’s Kitchen Leads uphold rigorous food safety, cleanliness, and operational excellence standards, working alongside Shift Leaders and Managers to maintain these practices throughout every shift. This role requires a detail-oriented and physically capable individual who can manage prep timing, par levels, and troubleshoot food quality issues promptly. Those passionate about kitchen leadership but not interested in full-scale people management will find this role especially fulfilling.

Overall, Sweetgreen is redefining fast food with a focus on healthy, fresh, and responsibly sourced menu offerings. The Culinary Lead plays a vital role in ensuring the brand’s promise is fulfilled every day in the kitchen, contributing directly to the company’s mission to build healthier communities and foster a better food future for all.