Lead Production Chef - Plum Market

Plum Market • Ann Arbor, MI

13h

About The Position

The Prepared Foods Production Lead is a key leader within the department, responsible for overseeing the daily execution of hot and cold food production, team coordination, and service excellence. As the right hand to the Prepared Foods Team Leader, the Production Lead ensures that all production tasks are completed efficiently and consistently, while maintaining Plum Market’s high standards for quality, food safety, and Guest satisfaction. This role also supports training, supervision, and operational leadership across all production areas, stepping in as department lead when needed.

Requirements

• At least 5 years of cooking experience in high-volume food production or scratch-prep kitchens.
• Previous leadership experience in a culinary, deli, or foodservice setting.
• Proven ability to lead, delegate, and train team members effectively.
• Experience with perishable inventory management, food safety, and sanitation protocols.
• Strong multitasking and time management skills.
• Calm, confident demeanor under pressure with strong problem-solving abilities.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, Outlook, Word).
• Flexibility to work a variety of shifts including early mornings, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Physical ability to stand and walk for up to 4 hours without a break.
• Ability to bend and stoop to grasp objects, climb ladders, lift up to 50 lbs. unassisted, and push/pull carts weighing up to 100 lbs. unassisted.

Nice To Haves

• ServSafe Manager certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead all hot and cold food production efforts, ensuring consistent quality, presentation, and timeliness.
• Conduct daily walk-throughs to assess production needs, inventory rotation, and departmental standards.
• Supervise and delegate tasks to the Production Team, FOH Team, and other supporting roles.
• Work various shifts to support team performance and departmental coverage.
• Oversee catering production and partner with the Catering Coordinator to ensure successful execution.
• Support inventory management, ordering, and rotation in coolers, freezers, and dry storage.
• Assist with onboarding, training, and development of team members, providing clear, constructive feedback.
• Address Guest and team concerns with professionalism and care.
• Ensure strict compliance with all health, safety, sanitation, and food handling guidelines.
• Serve as acting department leader when the Prepared Foods Team Leader is off duty.
• Uphold and model Plum Market’s service standards, values, and operating procedures.

Benefits

• Flexible Scheduling – Full-time and part-time positions available with a variety of retail shifts to support work-life balance.
• Comprehensive Training – We invest in our Team Members with exceptional training programs.
• Competitive Holiday Pay – Earn time and a half for working on five federally recognized holidays: New Year’s Day, Memorial Day, Fourth of July, Labor Day, and Thanksgiving.
• Career Growth Opportunities – As a growing company, we provide promotional pathways, so you can grow with us!
• Comprehensive Benefits Package – Medical, dental, and vision coverage for you and your family.
• 401(k) with Company Match – Available after just six months.
• Team Member Discounts – Enjoy 20% off grocery purchases and 50% off Team Member meals.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed