Kitchen Operations Manager

Pasadena, CA, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Health Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

training programs

Career advancement opportunities

Mentorship programs

Flexible Work Options

Job Description

Aramark is a renowned global leader in food and facilities services, proudly serving millions of guests daily across 15 countries. With a commitment to creating positive impacts for employees, partners, communities, and the planet, Aramark operates with a strong dedication to diversity, inclusion, and equal employment opportunities. The company values each team member’s growth and sense of belonging, fostering a rewarding work environment where everyone is encouraged to reach their fullest professional potential. Aramark is known not only for its wide range of food service and hospitality operations but also for its focus on sustainable practices and corporate responsibility, ensuring a positive legacy for future generations.

The role of Kitchen Operations Manager at Aramark is a pivotal position responsible for overseeing all aspects of kitchen operations within a professional food service environment. This leadership role focuses on managing kitchen personnel, coordinating daily culinary activities, and ensuring the highest standards of food preparation and service. Working closely under the guidance of the General Manager, the Kitchen Operations Manager helps elevate customer service standards and delivers exceptional dining experiences. This position requires a blend of culinary expertise, team development, safety compliance, and financial management.

Serving as a key figure in the culinary team, the Kitchen Operations Manager drives both operational excellence and creativity in menu development. They forecast food consumption, procure supplies, and standardize recipes to guarantee consistent quality throughout food offerings. With a keen eye for food presentation and flavor balance, they establish quality benchmarks that enhance guest satisfaction. Beyond culinary skills, this role demands strong leadership capabilities, mentoring junior staff, and fostering a motivated kitchen team ready to meet fast-paced challenges.

The Kitchen Operations Manager also upholds rigorous safety and sanitation standards, maintaining kitchen equipment and ensuring compliance with food safety regulations to create a safe work environment. Additionally, they oversee the successful execution of special catering events and provide culinary instruction to help develop the skills of kitchen personnel. The position is intertwined with achieving financial objectives by managing budgets and controlling costs effectively.

Aramark supports this role by providing comprehensive training, leadership development programs, and growth opportunities to help each Kitchen Operations Manager succeed and build a fulfilling career in the culinary and hospitality industry. The company’s dedication to employee development and inclusion creates a positive workplace culture where innovation and excellence thrive, making Aramark an ideal employer for culinary professionals passionate about making a difference.

Job Requirements

Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in culinary or kitchen leadership
2-3 years of post-high school education or equivalent
Culinary training preferred but not required
Strong leadership and team management skills
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
Ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
Effective communication skills

Job Qualifications

Minimum of 2-3 years of experience in a related culinary or kitchen leadership role
2-3 years of post-high school education or equivalent professional experience
Culinary training preferred but not required
Strong knowledge of food service principles, culinary operations, and kitchen management practices
Proven ability to lead teams and resolve challenges in a fast-paced kitchen environment
Effective verbal, reading, and written communication skills

Job Duties

Manage, train, and supervise kitchen staff while coordinating daily culinary operations
Oversee daily kitchen activities to ensure efficient service delivery and consistent quality standards
Forecast food consumption and procure required food supplies accordingly
Select, refine, and standardize recipes to maintain consistent quality and execution
Establish presentation techniques, quality benchmarks, and plan and price menus
Ensure kitchen equipment is operating properly and maintained according to standards
Maintain sanitation and food safety practices to ensure a safe and compliant kitchen environment
Manage special catering events and provide culinary instruction or demonstrations as needed
Serve as a mentor to junior kitchen staff by sharing culinary techniques and operational best practices