Lead Cook
About The Position
Luna Grill is hiring Lead Cooks in California, Texas, and Arizona. The Lead Cook oversees back-of-house production during assigned shifts, coaches team members, and helps ensure smooth kitchen operations while maintaining food quality, safety, accuracy, and speed of service. The role combines hands-on cooking with shift leadership, including training team members, monitoring food safety logs, coordinating station assignments, and ensuring compliance with Luna Grill standards. Compensation varies by region and market: California (Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and Inland Empire) pays $20.50 per hour, up to $24.00 per hour with tips; Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas pays $14.00–$16.00 per hour, up to $19.00 per hour with tips; and Mesa, Arizona pays $18.00–$20.00 per hour, up to $23.00 per hour with tips. Luna Grill describes itself as a people-first brand that values culture, standards, teamwork, respect, and hospitality. The Lead Cook sets the pace in the kitchen, helps maintain food safety and quality, and supports the development of other cooks while continuing to cook. Luna Grill participates in E-Verify and is an equal opportunity employer.
Requirements
- At least 1 year of kitchen leadership experience in a high-volume or fast-casual environment.
- Strong understanding of food preparation, portion control, and recipe consistency.
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation best practices.
- Positive, dependable team player who thrives under pressure.
- Must be at least 18 years old.
- Strong knowledge of kitchen operations, food safety, and sanitation.
- Reliable and professional, with the ability to communicate clearly.
- Ability to work productively with minimal supervision.
Nice To Haves
- High school diploma or GED preferred.
- Bilingual English/Spanish skills are a plus.
Responsibilities
- Prepare, cook, and plate menu items according to Luna Grill recipes and portion standards.
- Operate grills, fryers, ovens, and other kitchen equipment safely and efficiently.
- Maintain food quality, safety, and sanitation standards.
- Set up, organize, and maintain a clean workstation throughout the shift.
- Support the kitchen team with preparation, stocking, and closing duties.
- Direct and assist team members during shifts to ensure smooth operations.
- Communicate effectively with leadership and teammates to keep service running efficiently.
- Assist with dishwashing, kitchen maintenance, and other tasks as needed.
- Train team members, monitor food safety logs, and coordinate station assignments.
- Ensure compliance with Luna Grill standards.
Benefits
- Flexible scheduling for work-life balance.
- Career growth opportunities and promotion from within.
- Tip pool participation.
- Free healthy shift meal.
- Referral bonus program.
- Recognition and rewards for performance and teamwork.
- Luna Grill employee discounts.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
Education Level
No Education Listed
