Kitchen Manager: Chef-Driven Food. People-First Culture.

Hospitality Confidential is pleased to present an exciting Kitchen Manager opportunity with a growing, chef-driven restaurant group operating a high-volume, neighborhood-focused concept in Manhattan Beach, California. This role is responsible for overseeing day-to-day kitchen operations while partnering closely with restaurant leadership to maintain exceptional food quality, operational consistency, and team performance in a fast-paced environment.About the RoleThe Kitchen Manager will serve as the operational leader for all back-of-house functions at a high-volume, chef-driven fast casual restaurant. This is a deeply hands-on role focused on kitchen execution, food quality, staff development, inventory management, and maintaining a seamless relationship between front and back of house operations.This position is ideal for a culinary-focused leader who thrives working alongside the team during service, enjoys mentoring and developing staff, and can balance operational excellence with financial performance. The Kitchen Manager will work closely with restaurant leadership and ownership to uphold brand standards, maintain a positive workplace culture, and support the continued growth of the business.Kitchen & Operational LeadershipOversee all daily kitchen operations, including opening and closing proceduresEnsure the restaurant is fully prepped, staffed, and ready for service each dayMaintain active involvement during service, supporting the team and ensuring smooth kitchen flowStep into all positions as needed, including sandwich production, expediting, cashiering, dishwashing, and food runningOversee successful execution of menu changes, specials, and catering fulfillmentEnsure all food meets company standards for consistency, presentation, and qualityMaintain organization, cleanliness, and FIFO systems throughout all kitchen areasCoordinate with restaurant leadership to ensure seamless communication between FOH and BOHSupport equipment maintenance and identify operational repair needs proactivelyTeam Development & LeadershipLead, coach, and develop hourly kitchen staff while fostering a positive workplace cultureParticipate in hiring, onboarding, training, and performance managementProvide clear expectations, accountability, and consistent feedbackHelp maintain team morale and support retention during periods of growth and transitionTrain staff on proper food preparation techniques, urgency, organization, and execution standardsFoster a collaborative "one team" environment between front and back of house operationsFinancial & Administrative ManagementAssist with labor management and scheduling aligned with business needsManage inventory, ordering, receiving, and cost controlsMaintain accurate pars and inventory recordsAudit employee punches and assist with payroll-related administrative functionsReview operational performance metrics and identify opportunities for improvementSupport profitability goals through labor and cost management initiativesGuest Experience & StandardsSupport a high standard of hospitality and guest interactionRespond to guest feedback and operational issues in real timeMaintain a clean, organized, and welcoming restaurant environmentEnsure consistent execution and quality during high-volume service periodsSupport catering operations and large-format orders as neededHealth, Safety & ComplianceEnsure strict adherence to all food safety, sanitation, and health regulationsTrain staff on proper safety procedures and equipment usageMaintain a safe, secure, and healthy working environmentEnsure compliance with labor laws, meal and rest break policies, and workplace proceduresQualifications / Requirements4+ years of experience as a Kitchen Manager or similar culinary leadership roleExperience in high-volume, quality-driven restaurant concepts preferredStrong culinary and kitchen operations backgroundHands-on leadership style with a willingness to work alongside the team during serviceExperience managing labor, inventory, ordering, and cost controlsAbility to remain calm and professional under pressureStrong communication, organization, and problem-solving skillsExperience with restaurant systems such as POS and scheduling/payroll platforms preferredAbility to lead teams, maintain accountability, and foster a positive cultureMust be available to work evenings, weekends, and peak business hoursTypical schedule is approximately 50 hours per week, 5 days on-siteBread production or baking experience is a plus, but not requiredCompensation & BenefitsBase Salary Range: $72,000–$75,000 (flexible based on experience)$350 monthly health stipend$100/month cell phone reimbursementFull dining comp at restaurant locationsReserved parking10 days paid vacation401(k) eligibility after 1 year (no employer match)Standard California sick time policyEqual Employment OpportunityOur client is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. They do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender (including gender identity or expression), pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, marital status, domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking victim status, ancestry, national origin, alienage or citizenship, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information or predisposition, or any other characteristic protected by applicable law.J-18808-Ljbffr