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Lead Line Cook/Sous Chef Metro Cafe - 4.1 Santa Monica, CA Job Details Full-time $24 - $30 an hour 22 hours ago Benefits 401(k) Qualifications Kitchen health and safety standards Teamwork Sautéing Team leadership Meat preparation Supervising experience Food safety sanitizing procedures Seafood Organizational skills Managing kitchen staff Kitchen stations Food Handler Certification Time/Temperature control for safety (TCS) Communication with kitchen staff

Full Job Description Lead Line Cook Position Title:

Lead Line Cook Location:

Metro Cafe Employment Type:

Full-Time Position Summary Metro Cafe is seeking an experienced and dependable Lead Line Cook with strong dinner experiance. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who can work efficiently in a fast-paced environment, maintain high food quality standards, and help supervise daily kitchen operations. This position requires availability on weekends and holidays , as these are essential business days. Key Responsibilities Prepare and execute dinner menu items according to established recipes, portion sizes, and quality standards. Lead and support line cooks throughout dinner service while maintaining a positive and productive kitchen environment. Prepare steaks, seafood, pasta, sauces, sautéed dishes, vegetables, and other dinner specialties. Ensure proteins are cooked accurately to guests' requested temperatures. Maintain consistent plating, presentation, portion control, and ticket times. Organize daily preparation and ensure every station is properly stocked before dinner service. Monitor food quality, kitchen cleanliness, inventory levels, and food waste. Assist with ordering, receiving, and inventory management. Train and mentor kitchen staff on recipes, cooking techniques, plating standards, and food-safety procedures. Maintain compliance with all Health Department regulations and sanitation requirements. Ensure food is properly stored, dated, labeled, and rotated according to FIFO procedures. Complete dinner-service closing duties and ensure the kitchen is properly cleaned and prepared for the following day. Work closely with management and ownership to maintain menu consistency and efficient kitchen operations. Qualifications Minimum three years of line-cook experience, including at least one year in a leadership or supervisory role. Strong dinner-service experience required. Knowledge of steaks, seafood, pasta, sauté dishes, sauces, vegetables, and proper plate presentation. Ability to prepare proteins accurately to requested temperatures. Experience organizing and operating a fast-paced dinner line. Understanding of proper cooking temperatures, food handling, and sanitation procedures. Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure during busy service periods. Strong organizational, leadership, and communication skills. Reliable transportation and an excellent attendance record. California Food Handler Card required or ability to obtain one upon hire. Physical Requirements Ability to stand for extended periods. Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds. Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment with exposure to heat and kitchen equipment. Schedule Requirements Must be available to work weekends, holidays . Flexible schedule including opening, closing, and peak business hours. Preferred Skills Experience with American and European cuisine. Experience with inventory management and food cost control. Knowledge of basic sauce preparation and cooking techniques. Experience in training and developing kitchen staff. Compensation & Benefits Competitive hourly wage based on experience. Growth opportunities within the company. Employee meal during shifts. Supportive team environment and long-term career opportunities. Metro Cafe is an Equal Opportunity Employer and values teamwork, professionalism, and a passion for great food and hospitality.

Job Type:

Full-time Pay:

$24.00 - $30.00 per hour

Benefits:

401(k)

Work Location:

In person