Culinary Operations Manager

Food for Thought•Lincolnwood, IL

3h•$70,000 - $75,000

About The Position

Food For Thought is seeking a Culinary Operations Manager to lead both front- and back-of-house performance across multiple café locations. This role is responsible for driving consistency in food quality, service execution, and overall operational standards while supporting team development and client satisfaction. You will partner closely with district leadership to implement menu initiatives, oversee daily operations, and ensure each location meets performance, safety, and hospitality expectations. This position is ideal for a hands-on leader who can balance culinary knowledge with strong business and team management skills in a fast-paced environment.

Requirements

5+ years of experience in food service or hospitality management
Proven ability to lead teams in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
Strong communication, leadership, and organizational skills
Proficiency with basic computer systems and reporting tools
Valid Food Service Manager Certification and Food Allergen Certification required

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts or related field
Experience managing multiple locations or teams
Strong understanding of budgeting, inventory management, and cost controls
Passion for culinary operations with a focus on quality and innovation
Ability to adapt and problem-solve in a dynamic environment

Responsibilities

Oversee daily front- and back-of-house operations across assigned café locations
Monitor customer experience and resolve service or quality concerns in a timely manner
Partner with the District Manager to execute menu updates, promotions, and operational initiatives
Serve as a primary point of contact for client communication and relationship management
Ensure full compliance with company SOPs, food safety standards, and HACCP guidelines
Manage financial performance, including food cost, labor, and controllable expenses against budget targets
Support hiring, training, and ongoing development of team members
Maintain operational consistency and accountability across all assigned locations
Perform additional duties as assigned to support business needs

Benefits

Excellent training
Employee Referral bonuses
Flexible scheduling
Career advancement opportunities
Competitive Pay
Anniversary Milestone Incentives
Paid Time Off
Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance – Includes Spouse and Domestic Partner Coverage (Blue Cross Blue Shield Provider)
Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA)
Health Savings Account (HSA)
Paid Life Insurance
Accidental Death and Dismemberment Insurance (AD&D) & Critical Illness Insurance
Short Term Disability
Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
Mental Health, Relationship Conflicts, Child and Eldercare, Substance Abuse, Grief and Loss
Assistance for you and household members
In Person Sessions
Unlimited phone access
Parental Leave – Equal benefits to Mothers and Fathers
401K Retirement Plan
FFT University - Over 70 courses designed to enhance your skills in life and on the job to help your career growth.
Employee Meal Plan
Employee Discounts (Pet Insurance, Entertainment, Travel, Company Discounts, and much more).