Kitchen Manager

Vin de Syrah is a vibrant wine bar located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, one of San Diego's most popular and historic downtown districts. Catering to a diverse clientele, this establishment is known for its wide variety of wines and spirits, alongside live music performances and DJ nights that create an exciting social environment. The bar also features delectable small bites that complement their exquisite beverage offerings, making Vin de Syrah a favored destination for wine enthusiasts and nightlife lovers alike. Open nightly from Tuesday through Sunday, the venue thrives on providing memorable experiences in a sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere. Staff at Vin de Syrah are part of a dynamic team focused on excellent customer service, quality, and a passion for the culinary and beverage arts.

The role of Kitchen Manager at Vin de Syrah is a critical leadership position within the kitchen operations, directly reporting to the Executive Chef. This role demands a person who is deeply familiar with the workings of a fast-paced kitchen environment and who is capable of proactive problem-solving and authoritative delegation. The Kitchen Manager at Vin de Syrah must effectively oversee the Heart of the House staff, ensuring all kitchen tasks and responsibilities are executed with precision and efficiency.

This position involves a multifaceted set of duties, including hiring kitchen staff, managing food purchasing and stock levels, and overseeing staff training related to food preparation and safety. The Kitchen Manager ensures all dishes meet the highest standards by monitoring food quality, portion sizes, and timely preparation and service. Maintaining cleanliness, proper food disposal, and strict adherence to sanitary codes fall under their purview as well. The role requires a constant focus on optimizing kitchen profitability through diligent management of food costs, waste control, and employee scheduling.

Beyond managerial responsibilities, the Kitchen Manager actively monitors food safety practices and kitchen sanitation to maintain compliance with health regulations at the state and local levels. They are also pivotal in sustaining workplace safety by managing injury and illness documentation, enforcing safety protocols including use of personal protective equipment, and overseeing the cleaning and maintenance programs within the kitchen facility. The position demands hands-on involvement in kitchen repairs and equipment maintenance to ensure a safe and efficient working environment.

Staff development forms another cornerstone of this role. The Kitchen Manager is responsible for delivering comprehensive training programs for kitchen staff, supporting their professional growth through coaching, performance evaluations, and ongoing education about food safety and preparation techniques. Effective communication skills are crucial, as this person needs to provide clear instructions on daily specials, portion control, cooking methods, and overall food presentation to foster consistency and excellence in the kitchen team’s output.

The successful candidate will bring at least three years of experience in high-volume full-service restaurant kitchens, a high school diploma or equivalent, and key certifications such as ServSafe. Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and point-of-sale systems is considered an advantage. The job is physically demanding, requiring the ability to stand, walk, bend, lift up to 50 pounds, and work in a sometimes noisy environment. Compensation for this hourly role ranges from $22.00 to $25.00, reflecting the essential managerial expertise needed to help maintain Vin de Syrah's vibrant dining and entertainment experience. This role is ideal for a motivated kitchen professional eager to make a substantial impact in a lively, established venue in San Diego’s bustling Gaslamp Quarter.