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Kitchen Leader

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
Part-time
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Day Shifts
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Benefits

Tuition Assistance
Free Food
Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Digital Tips
Paid Time Off
holiday closures
competitive compensation
Opportunities for advancement

Job Description

Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is a renowned fast-casual restaurant chain dedicated to cultivating a better world by serving responsibly sourced, classically cooked, real food made from wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Chipotle stands out in the fast-food industry by reshaping the typical fast-food experience, emphasizing quality, transparency, and sustainability. With locations across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, Chipotle is unique among large restaurant companies because it owns and operates all its restaurants in both North America and Europe. Its commitment to responsible sourcing, food integrity, and innovation places it at the forefront of the food industry. The company thrives on a values-driven, people-first philosophy that fosters respect and growth opportunities for all employees, creating a diverse and inclusive workplace environment. Chipotle’s mission is not only to deliver delicious food quickly but also to drive conversations and change in the future of farming and food sustainability, making better food accessible to everyone.

The role of Kitchen Leader at Chipotle is a pivotal position that blends culinary skills with leadership development. The Kitchen Leader will receive hands-on training in food preparation, including grilling meats, sautéing vegetables, and ensuring each dish meets Chipotle’s high standards for taste and quality. This position involves more than cooking – the Kitchen Leader plays a crucial role in managing kitchen operations by ordering food supplies, maintaining cleanliness and organization of the workspace, and ensuring equipment is well maintained and in excellent working condition. Additionally, the Kitchen Leader acts as a mentor to crew members, helping them develop their skills and preparing them to take on future leadership roles within the kitchen. This leadership facet requires fostering a positive team atmosphere, encouraging cooperation between back-of-house and front-of-house staff, and translating the company’s Food With Integrity philosophy into everyday practices. The job is active and fast-paced, requiring Kitchen Leaders to be on their feet, tackling tasks proactively and supporting teammates to meet the restaurant's goals consistently.

Employment type typically includes full-time or part-time options, with competitive compensation aligned with industry standards. Employees enjoy comprehensive benefits, including tuition assistance that covers up to 100% for select degrees or up to $5,250 per year, free meals during shifts, medical, dental, and vision insurance, paid time off, holiday closures, and digital tips. There are clear pathways for advancement, evident in the fact that 80% of the managers started their journey as crew members, showcasing Chipotle’s commitment to internal growth and development. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about food quality, leadership, and contributing to a forward-thinking company that is actively shaping the future of fast food and sustainable food systems.

Job Requirements

  • Have the ability to understand and articulate Chipotle’s Food With Integrity philosophy
  • Have the knowledge and ability to speak, write, and understand the primary language(s) of the work location
  • Have a high school diploma
  • Have restaurant experience

Job Qualifications

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Previous restaurant or food service experience preferred
  • Strong communication skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced team environment
  • Leadership potential with a willingness to train and mentor others
  • Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation
  • Ability to follow company policies and procedures
  • Ability to speak, write, and understand the primary language(s) of the work location

Job Duties

  • Ensuring food quality by cooking and prepping food to order, and following kitchen procedures
  • Monitoring food waste and inventory levels, and resolving food quality issues
  • Supporting a strong team dynamic between back of house Crew and front of house Crew
  • Developing Crew members to be future Kitchen Leaders
  • Communicating with Crew members and customers effectively in order to ensure great customer service and throughput
  • Ensuring the kitchen is properly cleaned and sanitized
  • Monitoring kitchen equipment and ensuring it is kept in good repair
  • making sure malfunctioning equipment is repaired as quickly as possible
  • Ensuring that the kitchen itself and all Crew members meet the necessary guidelines to ensure there are no injuries or accidents
  • Filling out Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS) and Inventory Rotation (FIFO)

Job Criteria

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)


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