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Marukai Corporation

Sushi Department Leader/Assistant Department Leader

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Hourly
Full-time
Part-time
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Compensation

Type:
Hourly
Rate:
Range $25.00 - $30.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Weekend Shifts
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Benefits

Competitive hourly wage or salary
Health Insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Paid Time Off
Employee Discounts
Opportunities for career advancement

Job Description

Tokyo Central, a renowned retailer dedicated to bringing authentic Japanese flavors and premium groceries to the East Bay, is thrilled to announce the grand opening of its brand-new location in Emeryville, California. Known for its commitment to quality, cultural authenticity, and exceptional customer service, Tokyo Central has become a beloved destination for those seeking genuine Japanese culinary experiences and specialty grocery items.

The new Emeryville location will uphold this tradition by offering a wide assortment of fresh, high-quality Japanese groceries alongside a dynamic and expertly crafted sushi department. The company prides itself on creating a warm and welcoming environme... Show More

Job Requirements

  • Must be at least 18 years old
  • High school diploma or GED preferred
  • Must be legally authorized to work in the United States
  • Willingness to work a flexible schedule including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays
  • Must be dependable and punctual for all scheduled shifts
  • Ability to stand and walk for 8+ hours per shift
  • Able to lift, push, and carry up to 40 pounds regularly
  • Comfortable working in cold, wet, and fast-paced food prep environments
  • Manual dexterity and precision handling knives and cutting tools
  • Basic knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices
  • Willingness to follow strict hygiene standards (gloves, hairnets, handwashing, etc.)
  • Ability to properly clean and sanitize workstations and equipment
  • Comfortable using digital scales, label machines, rice cookers, and knives
  • Ability to read and follow written recipes and production schedules accurately
  • Capable of learning inventory rotation systems (FIFO) and tracking product freshness
  • Positive, courteous, and helpful attitude toward customers and coworkers
  • Ability to communicate effectively in English (verbal and written)
  • Willingness to take direction and work as part of a team
  • Strong attention to detail and pride in producing quality, visually appealing food items

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum 18 years of age
  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Ability to stand, bend, and lift up to 50lbs for extended periods
  • Availability to work flexible hours including weekends, evenings, and holidays
  • Strong communication and interpersonal skills
  • Commitment to food safety and hygiene standards
  • 1+ year experience in sushi preparation, Japanese cuisine, or food service preferred
  • Culinary training or certification in food handling (SERV Safe or equivalent) preferred
  • Knowledge of Japanese ingredients, traditional preparation methods, and knife skills preferred
  • Bilingual skills (e.g., English/Japanese, English/Spanish) a plus

Job Duties

  • Prepare a wide range of sushi including nigiri, sashimi, maki rolls, poke bowls, and specialty items according to established recipes, portion sizes, and presentation standards
  • Ensure all sushi products are prepared fresh daily and meet or exceed food safety and quality standards
  • Operate sushi rice cookers, sushi knives, and other kitchen equipment safely and efficiently
  • Maintain knowledge of sushi ingredients, cutting techniques, and food pairing best practices
  • Monitor freshness and rotate ingredients using FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory practices
  • Interact with customers in a friendly, knowledgeable, and professional manner
  • Provide recommendations on menu items, answer questions about ingredients or dietary concerns, and fulfill special requests when possible
  • Offer samples and promote new or seasonal items to enhance the customer experience and drive sales
  • Maintain a clean and organized work area at all times, including sushi prep areas, refrigerators, cutting boards, and display cases
  • Adhere strictly to food safety protocols and hygiene standards in compliance with local health department regulations
  • Ensure all products are properly labeled with ingredients, allergens, expiration dates, and pricing
  • Assist in ordering, receiving, and stocking sushi ingredients and supplies
  • Monitor inventory levels to minimize waste and ensure product availability
  • Set up and maintain attractive and well-stocked sushi displays that align with department and company merchandising standards
  • Accurately label, package, and date products for retail display
  • Work closely with other kitchen team members, department leads, and store staff to ensure smooth operations and consistent quality
  • Attend department meetings and participate in training sessions to improve skills and product knowledge
  • Assist with cross-functional duties as needed, including special events, catering, or seasonal promotions

Job Qualifications

Experience

Entry Level (1-2 years)

Job Location