Lead Cook

Luna Grill•La Quinta, CA

11d•$21 - $21•Onsite

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 service speed. The role combines hands-on cooking with shift leadership, including training team members, monitoring food safety logs, coordinating station assignments, and maintaining compliance with Luna Grill standards. Compensation varies by region and market: California locations (Los Angeles, Orange County, San Diego, and Inland Empire) pay $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; Mesa, Arizona, pays $18.00–$20.00 per hour, up to $23.00 per hour with tips. Luna Grill describes its culture as people-first, emphasizing teamwork, respect, hospitality, standards, and growth from within.

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 in English and Spanish is 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.
Maintain compliance with Luna Grill standards.