Cook/ Kitchen Lead

Job Overview We are seeking a dependable, experienced, and hands-on Kitchen Lead to oversee daily kitchen operations for our cafe and wine bar. This role is ideal for a strong cook who can take ownership of kitchen execution, maintain high food quality standards, and lead service with confidence. As the Kitchen Lead, you will be responsible for coordinating kitchen workflow, managing prep and inventory, ensuring consistency across all menu items, and setting the standard for cleanliness, organization, and efficiency. You will work closely with ownership and front-of-house staff to deliver an exceptional guest experience during both cafe and evening wine bar service. Our menu features high-quality but approachable dishes including sandwiches, toasts, salads, small plates, pizza, pasta, desserts, and shareable items designed to complement our coffee and wine programs. Responsibilities Lead day-to-day kitchen operations during cafe and wine bar service Prepare and execute menu items consistently according to recipes and presentation standards Manage kitchen workflow and prioritize tickets to ensure timely and accurate service Maintain quality control on all food leaving the kitchen Organize daily prep production and ensure stations are fully stocked and service-ready Monitor inventory levels, prep needs, and product usage; communicate ordering needs to management Train, mentor, and support kitchen staff while fostering a positive team environment Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and health department standards Assist with scheduling, task delegation, and kitchen organization as the team grows Coordinate effectively with front-of-house staff regarding ticket times, menu availability, and guest requests Receive deliveries, verify product quality, and maintain proper storage and rotation procedures Identify opportunities to improve kitchen efficiency, consistency, and profitability Assist with menu development, specials, and recipe refinement Complete opening and closing procedures and ensure the kitchen is maintained to a high standard Qualifications 2+ years of experience as a Lead Cook, Kitchen Lead, Sous Chef, or senior line cook Proven ability to lead a kitchen during service and maintain composure under pressure Strong cooking skills and experience with sandwiches, salads, pasta, pizza, small plates, and cafe-style food Understanding of food cost awareness, waste reduction, and inventory management Excellent organizational, communication, and multitasking skills Ability to train and motivate team members Reliable, punctual, and accountable Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health department requirements Food Handler Certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days) Schedule & Availability Full-time preferred Morning, afternoon, evening, and weekend availability required Flexible scheduling based on business needs Compensation $18-$22 per hour depending on experience Growth opportunities as the business expands What We're Looking For We're looking for someone who thinks like an owner, leads by example, and takes pride in running a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen. The ideal candidate is a strong cook who can confidently lead service, solve problems independently, and help build kitchen systems from the ground up. This is an opportunity to play a key role in launching and growing a new cafe and wine bar concept.