Kitchen Manager / Culinary Operations Manager

Watchdog Cafeteria

Kitchen Manager / Culinary Operations Manager

Washington, DC
Full Time
Paid
  • Responsibilities

    Benefits:

    Bonus based on performance

    Free food & snacks

    Opportunity for advancement

    Paid time off

    Benefits/Perks

    Flexible Scheduling

    Competitive Compensation

    Career Advancement Opportunities

    Job Summary

    We are seeking an experienced, hands-on Kitchen Manager / Culinary Operations Manager to lead daily food service operations in a professional dining facility located within a secure government office building in Downtown Washington, DC.

    This position requires a leader who can successfully manage kitchen operations, develop weekly menus, supervise staff, control food costs, minimize waste, maintain food safety standards, and deliver an exceptional dining experience for a diverse customer base.

    The ideal candidate understands how to balance customer satisfaction, operational efficiency, food quality, labor productivity, and profitability.

    This is a working management position. The successful candidate will actively participate in food production while overseeing daily kitchen operations.

    Responsibilities:

    Create innovative menus according to the seasonal availability of ingredients and customer expectations

    Prepare and plate food according to kitchen specifications

    Assist Executive Chef with kitchen operations with a goal of increasing revenue and profit

    Supervise and coordinate all food preparation and presentation

    Provide training and leadership for kitchen staff

    Maintain appropriate levels of inventory and negotiate with vendors to get high-quality products at the best price

    Follow all food safety rules and regulations

    Open and prepare kitchen operations daily beginning at 5:00 AM

    Lead breakfast and lunch production and service

    Supervise kitchen staff and assign daily responsibilities

    Maintain high standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation

    Train, coach, and develop kitchen employees

    Ensure daily operational readiness and service excellence

    Maintain a clean, organized, and professional kitchen environment

    Experience with Catering & Special Events up to 200 people

    Qualifications:

    High school diploma/GED

    Minimum 3 years of kitchen leadership experience

    Certification from culinary school preferred

    ServeSafe or Food Handler’s Certification

    Advanced knowledge of culinary techniques and recipes

    Ability to remain calm and thrive under pressure

    Excellent management and leadership skills