Culinary Lead

Sweetgreen is a national restaurant brand dedicated to building healthier communities by connecting people to real food. Since its inception in 2007, Sweetgreen has set itself apart by reimagining fast food to be fresh, flavorful, and deeply rooted in relationships with farmers and local communities. Their mission centers on providing nutritious, sustainably sourced food that not only satisfies appetites but also fosters a positive impact on health and the environment. As a rapidly growing company, Sweetgreen is committed to developing its people across all locations, from restaurants to support centers, creating an inclusive and empowering workplace where food, people, and purpose come together.

The role of Culinary Lead at Sweetgreen, also known as Kitchen Lead, is pivotal to maintaining the brand's high standards for food quality. Unlike traditional restaurants, Sweetgreen kitchens operate without grills or fryers, focusing instead on smart systems and cooking techniques that uphold the integrity and freshness of the ingredients. The Culinary Lead is the food quality expert on shift, responsible for how food is prepped, cooked, and presented. This position does not involve people management tasks like scheduling or performance reviews. Instead, the Culinary Lead leads by example through craftsmanship, coaching, and ensuring consistency in every shift. They serve as the go-to person for food quality and smooth kitchen execution, partnering closely with Shift Leaders and Managers to uphold food safety, cleanliness, and operational excellence.

The Culinary Lead’s responsibilities include overseeing food quality to ensure every item meets Sweetgreen’s standards for flavor, food safety, and presentation; prepping and cooking hot food to standard using kitchen tools and ovens without the use of flames or fryer oil; providing real-time feedback to teammates to help improve food execution; managing prep timing and par levels to keep kitchen operations efficient and smooth; and proactively identifying and fixing any issues that could impact food quality during the shift. This role is ideal for individuals who love working in a kitchen environment, take great pride in delivering consistent and high-quality food, enjoy training peers, and seek leadership responsibility without full people management duties. Experience in high-volume kitchens, such as fast casual, quick-service restaurants, full service, or corporate dining, is highly valued.

Sweetgreen offers competitive wages and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision options for both part-time and full-time team members, paid vacation, wellness time, parental leave, and a free meal each shift. Additionally, the role offers tips depending on location and a clear career path to Shift Leader and General Manager positions within 2-3 years, making it an excellent opportunity for growth within the food service industry. The company fosters a culture of inclusivity, equality, and support, providing equal job opportunities to all applicants and employees regardless of demographic or background, and actively participates in federal employment verification programs. By joining Sweetgreen as a Culinary Lead, you are not just embarking on a job but joining a movement dedicated to a healthier future for communities and yourself.