Kitchen Manager

Applebee's is a well-established and renowned restaurant franchise known for its casual dining experience that blends delicious food with a warm and welcoming atmosphere. As part of a global network of restaurants, Applebee's has built a reputation for delivering made-from-scratch meals and exceptional customer service. The company strives to create an inclusive culture that embraces diversity and the unique strengths of its associates, aiming to foster an environment where employees can thrive both professionally and personally.

The company places great emphasis on work-life balance, offering competitive pay, flexible work hours, and an extensive package of benefits including health, dental, and vision insurance as well as paid vacation. Applebee's also commits to providing extensive paid training to ensure associates are well-equipped to succeed and grow within the organization. Real advancement opportunities exist for motivated individuals, making it an excellent place for career development, especially within the hospitality and restaurant management sectors.

The role of the Kitchen Manager at Applebee's is pivotal in maintaining the high standards the brand represents. The Kitchen Manager oversees all back-of-house operations, ensuring cleanliness, sanitation, and compliance with safety regulations. Responsible for managing hourly associates, the Kitchen Manager leads by example, providing coaching, feedback, and development opportunities to the team. This role requires a hands-on approach to ensure that food quality meets Applebee's specifications and that operational procedures, including purchasing and cost controls, are diligently followed.

In addition to operational duties, the Kitchen Manager is tasked with administrative responsibilities such as handling company-mandated accounting and paperwork. The position demands a strong leadership presence in the kitchen to inspire and motivate staff, making certain that the team works efficiently and harmoniously to provide an excellent dining experience for guests. This leadership role is also vital in enforcing food safety, responsible alcohol service, and other regulatory compliance requirements.

Prospective candidates for the Kitchen Manager position should have a solid foundation of experience in restaurant or hospitality management, ideally with 2-3 years of supervisory or managerial roles such as kitchen manager, BOH Manager, general manager, or shift lead. The job necessitates certifications in food safety and responsible alcohol service, aligned with state regulations. Physically, candidates must be prepared for demanding work conditions, including standing and moving for extended periods and lifting moderate weights.

Applebee's is an equal opportunity employer committed to equitable hiring practices, including compliance with Ban the Box and Fair Chance Hiring policies. This role provides a fulfilling career path for those passionate about food service and leadership, supported by a company culture dedicated to respect, personal growth, and community engagement.