Kitchen Manager | Smith Tower

Columbia Hospitality•Seattle, WA

2d•$80,500 - $82,000•Onsite

About The Position

At Smith Tower Observatory and Bar, the Kitchen Manager is the back-of-house leader responsible for driving kitchen excellence across all service areas—including daily operations, special events, and bespoke catering experiences. In partnership with senior leadership, the Kitchen Manager oversees menu development, team performance, and kitchen operations, ensuring each guest encounter reflects quality, creativity, and consistency. This role champions a culture of hospitality, safety, and innovation, while delivering elevated food experiences that define the Smith Tower standard.

Requirements

Culinary arts degree or equivalent training, with at least 7 years in the industry and 2+ years in a management role within a comparable environment.
Strong written and verbal communication skills to address sensitive inquiries and operational needs.
Proficiency in managing according to employment and industry-relevant laws.
Demonstrated conflict management and negotiation abilities in a dynamic work environment.
Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and other relevant software.
Able to do menu costing, analyze product mix, and ensure financial profitability.
Professional, enthusiastic demeanor with a focus on team engagement and client satisfaction.
Exceptional organizational skills with a reliable and punctual work ethic.
Necessary State Food Handler’s License(s) and WA State MAST Permit

Responsibilities

Oversees all aspects of daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency, consistency, and adherence to food safety and quality standards.
Leads the recruitment, onboarding, and continuous development of the culinary team, cultivating a high-performing culture grounded in accountability, creativity, and excellence.
Partners closely with the Food & Beverage Manager and Sales & Events Manager to execute special events/banquets, private events, and catered experiences with precision and innovation.
Participates in daily event briefings and contract reviews to ensure alignment and flawless execution across departments.
Facilitates monthly back-of-house team meetings to share updates, celebrate achievements, and drive engagement.
Drives operational success through strong collaboration with the greater Food & Beverage team, ensuring an elevated guest experience that surpasses expectations.
Champions a safe and well-maintained work environment by upholding safety protocols and swiftly addressing any hazards or equipment concerns, and to ensure that back-of-house areas are ready for unscheduled health inspections.
Develops and maintains all culinary menus in alignment with brand standards, obtaining final approval from senior leadership.
Develops unique event concepts and themed menus, providing culinary leadership to support the planning and execution of bespoke experiences.
Maintains clear and proactive communication across departments, ensuring alignment and awareness of changes, challenges, or guest needs.
Responds professionally and promptly to guest, client, or team feedback, fostering positive relationships and reinforcing service excellence.
Upholds security standards and operational integrity, protecting company assets and proprietary information.
Reviews and audits kitchen team payroll daily for accuracy and compliance.
Conducts monthly food and beverage inventories, maintaining cost control, and accountability.
Embodies a service-forward mindset, ensuring every team member delivers with responsiveness, enthusiasm, and follow-through.
Completes administrative duties related to the position with precision, timeliness, and attention to detail.
Strives to innovate and elevate culinary offerings, maintaining a relentless focus on quality and guest satisfaction.
Exemplifies Columbia Hospitality’s core values and mission through leadership, service, and everyday interactions.
Other Duties as assigned by Management.

Benefits

Downtown Seattle Parking Benefit
Get Paid Daily (Make any day payday)
Paid Time off & Holiday Pay (Because Balance Matters)
Benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, 401K
HSA/FSA Plans -with employer contribution
Values Based Culture (#OMGLIFE)
Culture Add (Creating Space for Fresh Perspectives)
Referral Bonus (Get Paid to Recruit)
Discounted Lodging, Dining, Spa, Golf, and Retail (Yes, Discounted Travel!)
Employee Assistance Program
“Columbia Cares” Volunteer Opportunities
Committee Participation Opportunities (Fun, Philanthropic, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion)
Task Force Work Opportunities (Grow your career in idyllic locations across the globe)
Online Learning Platform to Help You Grow!
Third Party Perks (Including discounts on Pet Insurance, Rental Cars, Movie and Concert Tickets, Theme Park and Attractions & so much more)