Kitchen Manager

Metropolitan Market, LLC is a premier grocery store chain located in the Pacific Northwest, known for its commitment to quality, exceptional customer service, and vibrant community presence. As a company, Metropolitan Market specializes in providing a diverse selection of fresh, prepared foods alongside quality grocery items, serving customers who appreciate culinary excellence and personalized service. Founded to bridge the gap between specialty food service and community grocery shopping, the company has built its reputation on superior product offerings, knowledgeable staff, and an enjoyable shopping experience. The stores feature thoughtfully curated gourmet prepared foods, fresh produce, and artisan products sourced from local and global suppliers, reinforcing their dedication to freshness, sustainability, and food safety.

This role is based in Mercer Island and is a critical leadership position within the Prepared Foods Department at Metropolitan Market. Reporting to the Prepared Foods Team Leader and Assistant Team Leader, this position involves managing daily operations, product management, and ensuring the highest standards of food safety, quality, and customer satisfaction within the department. As an Assistant Team Leader, you will play a vital role in assisting with merchandising, sales growth, inventory control, and labor management while also focusing on personnel development and training. The position is structured to support both organizational goals and team member growth, requiring a blend of hands-on culinary expertise, effective leadership, and communication skills.

As a key contribution to the Prepared Foods Department, you will oversee the development of appealing product displays designed to attract customer interest and drive sales. Your responsibilities will include ensuring consistency and adherence to recipe guidelines in food preparation, maintaining product freshness and portion control, and managing inventory levels to optimize sales while minimizing waste. You will be involved in ordering and vendor relations to maintain appropriate stock and cost controls.

Your leadership will extend to coaching, training, and providing constructive feedback to team members, fostering a productive and motivated work environment. Knowledge of food safety regulations, including HACCP and Department of Health standards, is paramount in this role, ensuring that all food products meet safety and sanitation requirements. This position also involves active participation in promotions and marketing efforts to enhance customer engagement and support company goals.

The ideal candidate will have a minimum of two years in chef, sous chef, or kitchen management roles with supervisory experience and a strong background in customer service. You must demonstrate excellent time management, problem-solving abilities, and a passion for food and culinary arts. Effective communication skills, both verbal and written, are essential, as is the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Metropolitan Market offers a competitive salary starting at $27.15 per hour along with an extensive benefits package including medical, dental, and vision insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and career development opportunities. This is a full-time role committed to fostering a safe, inclusive, and equal opportunity workplace. The company requires all employees to have a valid Washington State Food Workers Card and is committed to nondiscrimination and equal employment opportunity for all individuals, regardless of race, gender, or other protected statuses.