Kitchen Manager

Harlem Children's Zone•New York, NY

20d•$55,000 - $61,000

About The Position

Harlem Children’s Zone (HCZ), a New York-based education and poverty-fighting organization, is seeking a Kitchen Manager (Lead Cook) for the Promise Academy Kitchen Department. This supervisory role oversees the culinary team and daily cooking and food preparation according to recipes and production guidelines, while ensuring compliance with food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures. The Kitchen Manager oversees or delegates responsibilities across kitchen operations and supports HCZ’s mission to break the cycle of intergenerational poverty by helping children and families thrive in school, work, and life. The role includes training and managing team members, scheduling and supervising staff, placing kitchen orders, maintaining safe and clean working conditions, controlling costs, and fostering teamwork and a positive, energetic environment. The schedule is Monday through Friday, 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Requirements

At least three years of high-volume cooking experience.
At least two years of kitchen management experience leading a staff of eight or more.
Valid NYC DOH Food Protection Certificate.
High school diploma or GED.
Ability to cook a wide variety of foods.
Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Strong interpersonal skills.
Ability to communicate with individuals at all levels of the corporation.
Ability to stay organized in a changing environment.
Ability to maintain a calm, professional demeanor during uncertainty or crisis.
Ability to stand for extended periods.
Ability to lift 40 pounds.
Frequent exposure to climate change.
Completes projects and assignments thoroughly, professionally, carefully, and promptly.
Adapts to high-pressure situations and is open to change.
Takes responsibility for personal growth and development.
Conducts themselves professionally and sets a professional standard for team members.
Understands and communicates the HCZ mission and core values.
Expresses ideas and conveys information clearly, effectively, and professionally.

Nice To Haves

Formal culinary training degree or certification.

Responsibilities

Oversee daily cooking and food preparation in accordance with recipes and production guidelines.
Ensure food safety, food handling, and sanitation procedures are followed.
Oversee or delegate responsibilities within the culinary operation.
Train and educate new team members on HCZ’s culture, philosophies, standards, and operations.
Create an experience that guests will want to repeat.
Manage supervised team members, including counseling, disciplining, and scheduling.
Place orders pertaining to the kitchen.
Maintain clean and safe working conditions in the kitchen.
Control costs through ongoing training and education of team members.
Attend weekly management meetings and host daily team meetings.
Build teamwork among team members and fellow managers.
Create a fun and energetic environment.