Kitchen Manager / Chef

The company hiring for the Kitchen Manager position is a growing Australian business that has established itself as a high-quality concept with multiple locations in Texas and New York City. With a commitment to culinary excellence and operational efficiency, this company focuses on delivering outstanding food experiences while maintaining strong team culture and ownership values. The business is rapidly expanding, now seeking a dynamic and hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead the back-of-house (BOH) operations at a new location in the Clear Lake area of Houston, Texas. This role is designed for a strong operator who thrives in a fast-paced restaurant environment and is interested in career growth opportunities within an evolving brand.

This company offers a competitive compensation package, including a salary range of $70,000 to $75,000 annually plus bonus potential, along with comprehensive benefits. The role is suited for candidates who are passionate about kitchen management and committed to maintaining high standards of food quality and operational consistency.

The Kitchen Manager will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of the BOH operations, including receiving shipments, food preparation, production, line management, dishwashing, catering, and dispatch activities. This leadership position demands a practical and involved approach, requiring hands-on management and the ability to lead a diverse team effectively. The successful candidate will manage the recruitment, onboarding, scheduling, and daily supervision of kitchen staff, fostering a productive and motivated team environment.

Key performance indicators such as food costs (COGs), labor management, and inventory control will be critical areas of focus, with the Kitchen Manager expected to drive results through careful monitoring and continuous improvement. Expertise in managing these metrics, combined with a strong coaching style and accountability measures, will ensure that the kitchen operates smoothly and efficiently.

Compliance with department of health regulations, labor laws, and safety standards is essential. The candidate must ensure that all protocols are followed to maintain a safe, clean, and legally compliant kitchen environment. Knowledge of systems like Restaurant 365 and Toast will be advantageous, streamlining operations and enhancing reporting capabilities.

The ideal candidate will possess at least two years of restaurant management experience in quick service or full-service settings, with strong competence in team leadership and operational management. Bilingual proficiency in Spanish and English is preferred, enabling better communication with team members and fostering a more inclusive workplace.

Joining this team means becoming part of a collaborative and culture-driven organization that values ownership, follow-through, and direct impact on business outcomes. The Kitchen Manager will play a pivotal role in launching new locations and influencing the success of existing ones. This is a rare opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a growing concept while enjoying a rewarding and supportive work environment with competitive compensation and comprehensive employee benefits.