Kitchen Manager: Chef-Driven Food. People-First Culture.

Hospitality Confidential•Los Angeles, CA

7d•Onsite

About The Position

Hospitality Confidential is pleased to present an exciting Kitchen Manager opportunity with a growing, chef-driven restaurant group operating a high-volume, neighborhood-focused concept in Manhattan Beach, California. This role is responsible for overseeing day-to-day kitchen operations while partnering closely with restaurant leadership to maintain exceptional food quality, operational consistency, and team performance in a fast-paced environment. The Kitchen Manager will serve as the operational leader for all back-of-house functions at a high-volume, chef-driven fast casual restaurant. This is a deeply hands-on role focused on kitchen execution, food quality, staff development, inventory management, and maintaining a seamless relationship between front and back of house operations. This position is ideal for a culinary-focused leader who thrives working alongside the team during service, enjoys mentoring and developing staff, and can balance operational excellence with financial performance. The Kitchen Manager will work closely with restaurant leadership and ownership to uphold brand standards, maintain a positive workplace culture, and support the continued growth of the business. The role requires a strong presence during peak service periods, a calm and professional demeanor under pressure, and a commitment to fostering a collaborative, team-oriented environment.

Requirements

4+ years of experience as a Kitchen Manager or similar culinary leadership role
Experience in high-volume, quality-driven restaurant concepts preferred
Strong culinary and kitchen operations background
Hands-on leadership style with a willingness to work alongside the team during service
Experience managing labor, inventory, ordering, and cost controls
Ability to remain calm and professional under pressure
Strong communication, organization, and problem-solving skills
Experience with restaurant systems such as POS and scheduling/payroll platforms preferred
Ability to lead teams, maintain accountability, and foster a positive culture
Must be available to work evenings, weekends, and peak business hours

Nice To Haves

Bread production or baking experience is a plus, but not required

Responsibilities

Oversee all daily kitchen operations, including opening and closing procedures
Ensure the restaurant is fully prepped, staffed, and ready for service each day
Maintain active involvement during service, supporting the team and ensuring smooth kitchen flow
Step into all positions as needed, including sandwich production, expediting, cashiering, dishwashing, and food running
Oversee successful execution of menu changes, specials, and catering fulfillment
Ensure all food meets company standards for consistency, presentation, and quality
Maintain organization, cleanliness, and FIFO systems throughout all kitchen areas
Coordinate with restaurant leadership to ensure seamless communication between FOH and BOH
Support equipment maintenance and identify operational repair needs proactively
Lead, coach, and develop hourly kitchen staff while fostering a positive workplace culture
Participate in hiring, onboarding, training, and performance management
Provide clear expectations, accountability, and consistent feedback
Help maintain team morale and support retention during periods of growth and transition
Train staff on proper food preparation techniques, urgency, organization, and execution standards
Foster a collaborative “one team” environment between front and back of house operations
Assist with labor management and scheduling aligned with business needs
Manage inventory, ordering, receiving, and cost controls
Maintain accurate pars and inventory records
Audit employee punches and assist with payroll-related administrative functions
Review operational performance metrics and identify opportunities for improvement
Support profitability goals through labor and cost management initiatives
Support a high standard of hospitality and guest interaction
Respond to guest feedback and operational issues in real time
Maintain a clean, organized, and welcoming restaurant environment
Ensure consistent execution and quality during high-volume service periods
Support catering operations and large-format orders as needed
Ensure strict adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and health regulations
Train staff on proper safety procedures and equipment usage
Maintain a safe, secure, and healthy working environment
Ensure compliance with labor laws, meal and rest break policies, and workplace procedures