Culinary Lead

Sweetgreen is a national restaurant brand that has revolutionized the fast food industry by focusing on fresh, flavorful, and real food. Founded in 2007, Sweetgreen is committed to building healthier communities by connecting people with nutritious food options and fostering sustainable relationships with local farmers and suppliers. The company emphasizes the importance of quality, innovation, and community engagement in everything it does. As a leader in the fast-casual dining space, Sweetgreen has grown to become a beloved destination for health-conscious customers seeking quick, delicious meals made from wholesome ingredients. Sweetgreen is also deeply invested in its employees' growth and development, providing clear career pathways and opportunities to advance within the company. They maintain an inclusive and equitable work environment, welcoming people from diverse backgrounds and ensuring nondiscrimination in all aspects of employment.

The Culinary Lead position at Sweetgreen, also known as the Kitchen Lead, is a crucial role dedicated to maintaining the highest standards of food quality and kitchen execution. Unlike traditional restaurant kitchen roles, this position does not involve people management such as scheduling or performance reviews. Instead, the Culinary Lead serves as the food quality expert during shifts, setting and upholding standards for how food is prepared, cooked, and presented. This role requires a hands-on approach to kitchen work, including prepping and cooking food using tools like knives and ovens, but without the use of grills or fryers. Culinary Leads work closely with Shift Leaders and Managers to ensure operational excellence and food safety. This role is ideal for individuals who love food craftsmanship, take pride in consistent food execution, and want to develop leadership skills within the kitchen without managing a team.

The Culinary Lead has a significant impact on the day-to-day operations of the kitchen by overseeing food quality and coaching teammates in real-time to enhance performance. They manage prep timing and par levels to keep kitchen flow smooth and are proactive in identifying and resolving issues related to food quality. Sweetgreen offers a supportive environment where top-performing Culinary Leads have a clear path to advance to General Manager positions within two to three years, making this role a strategic opportunity for growth within the company. The role is typically part-time or full-time with a minimum of 30 hours per week and offers competitive wages, tips depending on location, and a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision, paid vacation, wellness time, parental leave, and 401(k) options. Sweetgreen also provides perks like free meals every shift and access to a Team Member Merch Shop, where employees can earn and purchase custom branded gear.

This opportunity welcomes individuals with experience in fast casual or high-volume kitchens such as QSR, full service, or corporate dining and values candidates who are passionate about food quality, consistency, and kitchen craftsmanship. Sweetgreen is dedicated to equity and inclusivity, ensuring all employees have the chance to thrive and contribute to the company’s mission of reshaping the future of fast food. Joining Sweetgreen means becoming part of a movement focused on health, sustainability, and community impact, while also investing in your personal and professional growth within a dynamic and supportive environment.