Kitchen Manager

Kitchen Manager We are seeking a strong, hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead our kitchen operations. This is not a clipboard position—we're looking for someone who can run a line, lead by example, coach a team, and keep service moving efficiently under pressure. If you take pride in serving quality food, thrive in a fast-paced environment, and believe in holding yourself and your team to high standards, we'd love to meet you. What You'll Do Lead Daily Kitchen Operations Oversee all kitchen operations. Lead by example while working alongside the team. Ensure the kitchen operates efficiently from opening responsibilities through closing. Maintain a positive, professional, and accountable work environment. Manage Service Lead the kitchen during high-volume dinner service. Control ticket times and maintain smooth service flow. Prioritize orders while communicating effectively with Expo and Front of House. Quickly identify and solve production issues before they affect guests. Jump into any station when needed, including grill, fry, sauté, prep, or expo. Food Quality & Consistency Ensure every plate leaving the kitchen meets Memories' quality, presentation, and portion standards. Taste and verify recipes as needed to maintain consistency. Monitor proper cooking temperatures, seasoning, and plating. Prevent waste by maintaining proper portion control and food handling procedures. Team Leadership Direct, coach, and support line cooks throughout each shift. Train new kitchen staff on recipes, equipment, and station expectations. Hold team members accountable to performance and cleanliness standards. Foster teamwork, urgency, professionalism, and respect throughout the kitchen. Address performance concerns promptly and communicate them to ownership when necessary. Kitchen Organization & Sanitation Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen at all times. Ensure all Health Department regulations and food safety standards are followed. Monitor proper labeling, dating, rotation, and storage of all products. Make sure stations remain stocked and organized throughout service. Hold staff accountable for completing opening, shift, and closing work. Inventory & Prep Management Ensure prep lists are completed accurately and on time. Monitor inventory levels throughout the shift. Communicate product shortages before they become emergencies. Assist with ordering, receiving, and inventory counts as assigned. Minimize waste while maintaining product availability. Closing Responsibilities Ensure all closing duties are completed thoroughly every night. Verify equipment is cleaned properly and safely shut down. Leave the kitchen fully prepared for the following day's service. Report maintenance or equipment concerns immediately. Communication Communicate clearly with ownership and Front of House managers throughout each shift. Keep everyone informed of product shortages, equipment issues, staffing concerns, and operational challenges. Work collaboratively with management to continuously improve kitchen performance. What We're Looking For 2+ years of leadership experience (Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef, Lead Line Cook, or similar role) Proven ability to run a busy, high-volume kitchen while maintaining food quality and ticket times Strong leadership skills with the confidence to coach, motivate, and hold staff accountable Excellent organizational and time-management abilities Calm under pressure with strong problem-solving skills Reliable, dependable, and consistently professional Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and Health Department regulations Ability to lift 50 pounds and remain on your feet for extended periods Availability to work evenings, weekends, and some holidays as business demands (Business is Closed on Easter, July 4th, Thanksgiving & Christmas Day) What Sets You Apart High-volume, full-service restaurant experience Strong expo and ticket management skills Experience with ordering, inventory control, food cost, and waste reduction Ability to train and develop kitchen staff Passion for creating an organized, efficient, and positive kitchen culture A mindset of continuous improvement and attention to detail Schedule Primarily PM shifts Wednesday through Sunday Nights, weekends, and some holidays required Compensation & Growth Competitive pay based on experience Performance-based growth opportunities Why Memories? We're looking for someone who wants to build something—not just punch a clock. You'll have the opportunity to make an impact on our kitchen culture, mentor your team, and help shape the future of one of Carroll County's busiest independent restaurants that has been in business for over 30 years!