Zingerman's Delicatessen logo

Deli Catering Kitchen Manager

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Range $58,000.00 - $62,000.00
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Work Schedule

Day Shifts
Weekend Shifts
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Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401k plan
Paid Time Off
Employee Meals
Employee Discounts

Job Description

Zingerman's Delicatessen is a renowned and highly respected food establishment known for its exceptional quality, unique culinary offerings, and outstanding customer service. Located in Ann Arbor, Michigan, Zingerman's is more than just a delicatessen; it is a community-focused business that has grown into a collection of specialty food businesses that share the same dedication to excellence and authentic experience. The deli has a rich history of crafting superior sandwiches, artisanal foods, and catering services that emphasize fresh, local ingredients and innovative techniques. With a strong commitment to diversity, inclusion, and cultivating a positive work environment, Zingerman's Delicatessen continues to be a leader in the gourmet food industry. The company fosters a culture where employees feel valued, respected, and empowered to contribute their unique talents and creativity. It promotes ongoing learning, collaboration, and servant leadership across all departments, making it an exceptional place to grow professionally.

The position of Catering Kitchen Manager at Zingerman's Delicatessen offers a significant leadership opportunity within this dynamic and thriving company. This full-time, salaried role comes with an annual base salary between $58,000 and $62,000, plus an additional 3% share of service fees, which typically amount to around $5,000 per year. The schedule requires approximately 45 to 50 hours each week, including mornings, some evenings, weekends, and holidays, with a few exceptions such as Christmas Day and Thanksgiving, when the business is closed. The role is central to the smooth operation of the catering production kitchen and requires a hands-on leader who can manage all aspects of kitchen production, employee training, and communication with related departments, including the deli kitchen, sandwich line, specialty foods, and purchasing departments.

The Catering Kitchen Manager is responsible for delivering exceptional catering experiences for all guests and staff, upholding the highest standards of food quality and service. Key duties include hiring and training the catering production staff, coaching team members, conducting performance reviews, and fostering a positive work environment rooted in Zingerman's principles of Servant Leadership and Stewardship. The manager also oversees inventory management, ordering supplies, coordinating cleaning and maintenance of kitchen equipment, and working alongside other department managers to ensure seamless collaboration and communication. This role requires strong organizational skills, the ability to problem-solve in real time, and a passion for event planning and operational excellence. It also involves supporting and stepping in to assist kitchen and sandwich line staff as needed, ensuring that the team always meets production goals and customer expectations.

Zingerman's values leaders who inspire teamwork, generate energy and enthusiasm, and drive results while promoting a no-drama workplace. Candidates for this role should have experience in high-end restaurant management or supervision, strong computer skills with programs such as Caterease and Google Docs, and Serv-Safe food certification. The successful applicant will demonstrate exceptional interpersonal and communication abilities, strong problem-solving skills, and a reputation for maintaining positive relationships with customers, vendors, and colleagues. Additionally, familiarity with continuous improvement methodologies like Lean management and Open Book Management is highly desirable.

Working at Zingerman's comes with many benefits, including medical, dental, vision coverage, and a 401k plan. Employees enjoy paid time off, daily meals from the deli sandwich menu, opportunities for advancement, and exclusive discounts across all Zingerman's businesses. The company’s commitment to a diverse and inclusive work environment ensures that everyone feels welcomed and valued, making Zingerman's not only a great place to work but also a company dedicated to community and personal growth.

Job Requirements

  • Minimum high school diploma or equivalent
  • 2-3 years experience in the restaurant industry, preferably high-end
  • 1-2 years experience in a managerial or supervisory capacity
  • Serv-Safe food certification
  • Ability to work 45-50 hours per week including mornings, some evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Strong computer proficiency including Caterease and Google Docs
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Physical ability to stand, walk, bend, stoop for extended periods
  • Ability to safely lift up to 40 lbs
  • Valid driver’s license without restrictions
  • Outgoing personality and leadership style consistent with company principles
  • High emotional intelligence and ability to work in a no-drama environment

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum 2-3 years experience in a high-end restaurant
  • Minimum 1-2 years experience in a manager or supervisor role
  • Serv-Safe food certification
  • Strong computer skills including Caterease, Google Docs, HRIS
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience in event planning and managing details
  • Inventory and costing experience preferred
  • Leadership that inspires teamwork, enthusiasm, and drives results
  • Experience in training and development of staff members
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a management team
  • Ability to deliver excellent customer service and Zingerman's Experience
  • Willingness to work holidays, weekends, and events
  • Desired experience with Lean management, continuous improvement, and Open Book Management

Job Duties

  • Bring all guests and staff amazing Zingerman's Catering and Events experiences
  • Arrive on time for all scheduled shifts, meetings, and classes
  • Hire, train, coach, and review performance of Catering Production staff following Servant Leadership principles
  • Resolve customer complaints and escalate as necessary
  • Provide hands-on help to kitchen and sandwich line staff when needed
  • Revise Catering training documents as needed
  • Lead cleaning and maintenance of Catering kitchen equipment and fixtures
  • Maintain organized and properly rotated Catering walk-in
  • Assist in menu creation and revision
  • Establish positive working relationships with Deli management team
  • Communicate menu details and changes effectively with kitchen and production staff
  • Manage monthly inventory and ordering produce
  • Place orders with Specialty Foods department
  • Execute events according to specifications
  • Assist in creating vision for Catering Department future
  • Work at other locations and venues as needed outside of the Deli
  • Establish strong relationships with catering sales, event, and service staff captains

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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