Lead Cook

Cristo Rey Kansas City•Kansas City, MO

About The Position

The Lead Cook oversees the daily operations of Cristo Rey Kansas City High School’s food service program, providing students and staff with nutritious, appealing, and cost-effective meals in a safe and welcoming environment. The role is responsible for menu planning, meal preparation, food safety compliance, inventory management, budget oversight, and supervision of food service personnel. The Lead Cook supports the school’s mission and values while maintaining high standards of customer service, sanitation, and operational excellence. The position also supports meal and refreshment preparation for school events and builds positive relationships with students, faculty, staff, and families. It upholds the school’s mission, values, and Catholic identity while respecting the faith-based educational environment and the diverse backgrounds of its community.

Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent.
At least three years of institutional, school, restaurant, or cafeteria food service experience.
Strong knowledge of large-scale food preparation, production, and service operations.
Thorough understanding of food safety, sanitation standards, and allergy management practices.
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Effective time management and ability to prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced environment.
Leadership and team-building skills, including the ability to lead, train, and motivate kitchen staff.
Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
Ability to work independently and collaborate effectively with team members and school staff.
Ability to maintain accurate inventory, purchasing, and food production records.
Ability to follow and enforce workplace safety, sanitation, and operational procedures.
Commitment to high-quality food service and a clean, organized kitchen.
Proficiency in basic computer applications, including email, inventory management, and online ordering systems.

Nice To Haves

Culinary training, food service certification, or related coursework.
Prior lead experience.

Responsibilities

Develop nutritious, cost-effective menus that meet school nutrition standards and accommodate dietary needs, allergies, and special food requirements.
Prepare and oversee daily meal production, ensuring food quality, appropriate portions, and timely service.
Manage meal service operations, including serving-line setup, lunch flow, and food temperatures during service.
Maintain a clean, sanitary kitchen and ensure compliance with local, state, and federal food safety regulations, inspections, and standards.
Manage inventory, verify deliveries, monitor food and supply costs, and minimize waste through inventory controls and menu planning.
Maintain temperature logs, sanitation records, inventory records, and other required food safety, storage, and compliance documentation.
Ensure kitchen equipment is maintained, safe, and operational, and report equipment needing repair.
Lead kitchen staff and volunteers to provide adequate meal-service coverage and efficient operations.
Build positive relationships with students, faculty, staff, and families and promote healthy eating and a welcoming dining environment.
Assist with meal and refreshment preparation for school events, staff meetings, donor functions, admissions events, retreats, and other programs as requested.
Support and uphold the school’s mission, values, and Catholic identity, respecting its faith-based educational environment and the diverse backgrounds of its students and families.