Culinary Lead

Sweetgreen is a national restaurant brand that has been redefining fast food since 2007 by offering fresh, flavorful, and real food options rooted in strong relationships with farmers and local communities. Committed to building healthier communities, Sweetgreen focuses on connecting people to wholesome food through its innovative approach to sustainable and quality-driven restaurant experiences. The company has a clear dedication not only to food but also to its people, providing equal opportunities for all employees and fostering an inclusive culture. Sweetgreen's growth is inspired by its mission to bring food, people, and purpose together, making it a meaningful place to work and grow. The brand offers a supportive and enriching environment where team members can advance and develop professionally along the culinary career path, particularly in leadership roles within the kitchen and restaurant operations.

The Culinary Lead position, or Kitchen Lead as it is sometimes called at Sweetgreen, is a vital role focused on ensuring the highest standard of food quality in the kitchen. This role is not a people management position but rather one of a food quality expert, responsible for how food is prepped, cooked, and presented during each shift. The Culinary Lead champions consistency, craft, and food safety, setting the benchmark for delicious, safe, and aesthetically appealing dishes without operating traditional restaurant equipment like grills or fryers. Instead, the kitchen relies on smart systems and kitchens designed specifically for fresh, health-conscious food preparation.

This role is instrumental in the day-to-day kitchen operations and works collaboratively with Shift Leaders and Managers to maintain food safety, cleanliness, and overall operational excellence. The Culinary Lead provides coaching and guidance to teammates to continuously improve kitchen execution and food presentation. Individuals passionate about food quality, eager to lead by example, and enthusiastic about working in high-volume kitchens will find this role fulfilling. There is a structured progression for Culinary Leads, with top performers encouraged and supported on a pathway to becoming General Managers within approximately two to three years, highlighting the investment Sweetgreen makes in its team’s professional development.

Sweetgreen values team members who are detail-oriented, environmentally aware in kitchen operations, and capable of working hands-on in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. With competitive wages, tips (dependent on location and role), and comprehensive benefits, including medical, dental, and vision insurance options for both part-time and full-time employees, the position offers solid financial and personal growth opportunities. Additional perks include paid vacation, wellness time, parental leave, a free meal every shift, 401(k) plans, and access to exclusive Sweetgreen merchandise. This role appeals to those who want to blend their passion for great food with leadership responsibilities that do not include full people management.