Benefits:

Fun work environment

Employee discounts

Job Summary

Push Start Play is looking for a hands on Kitchen Operations Manager to lead kitchen execution at the largest arcade in Texas.

This is not a traditional restaurant kitchen. Our menu is intentionally streamlined and focused on pizza, fried foods, and fast casual service. Our recipes, equipment, and operational systems are already established—we need a leader who can execute those systems consistently, train staff effectively, maintain food quality standards, and keep the kitchen running efficiently.

This role is responsible for kitchen staffing, training, inventory management, food quality, sanitation, and daily execution.

This is a highly hands on role, and during many shifts you may be the primary kitchen team member on duty. Our kitchen is intentionally designed for efficiency with a streamlined menu focused on pizza and fried items, this is not a scratch kitchen or a complex restaurant operation. During peak weekends and high-volume periods, additional kitchen support may be scheduled.

When kitchen staffing allows, this role may also occasionally serve as Manager on Duty outside of the kitchen based on business needs, leadership coverage, and scheduling demands.

This role is ideal for someone who enjoys leadership, thrives in fast-paced environments, and is comfortable balancing both kitchen ownership and broader operational flexibility.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Operations

Execute daily food service operations

Prepare pizzas and fried menu items

Maintain food quality, speed, and consistency

Ensure recipes and operational procedures are followed correctly

Monitor ticket times and maintain efficient service flow

Handle prep responsibilities and maintain proper product levels

Leadership & Training

Train and coach kitchen team members on recipes, prep procedures, cleanliness, and food safety standards

Hold kitchen staff accountable to operational expectations

Assist with staffing decisions and scheduling input

Help create a positive and accountable kitchen culture

Inventory & Ordering

Manage inventory counts

Place orders and maintain proper stock levels

Receive deliveries and verify product accuracy

Monitor food waste and product usage

Food Safety & Cleanliness

Ensure compliance with food safety standards

Maintain sanitation procedures and cleaning expectations

Ensure proper food storage and temperature compliance

Report equipment issues when needed

Operational Flexibility

Cross train in broader venue operations

Occasionally serve as Manager on Duty outside the kitchen when business needs require it

Support front-of-house operations when needed

Assist with guest concerns and overall operational flow

Schedule Expectations

Nights, weekends, and holidays are required

Some daytime availability is required for inventory ordering and receiving deliveries

Schedule flexibility is essential based on operational needs

Leadership availability during peak business periods is expected

Qualifications

Previous kitchen leadership experience preferred

Strong organizational and communication skills

Experience with inventory management preferred

Comfortable working independently and leading others

Ability to thrive in fast-paced environments

Food safety knowledge required

Restaurant, entertainment venue, bowling, theater, or similar experience is a plus

Must have or be willing to obtain Manager's Food Certification and TABC

We’re an entertainment business, and team energy matters here. We’re looking for leaders who can stay positive, solution-focused, and professional under pressure while helping create a fun environment for both guests and staff.

Pay

Why Push Start Play?

Push Start Play is the largest arcade in Texas, featuring hundreds of games, food, drinks, and unique entertainment experiences. We’re continuing to grow and are looking for strong leaders who want to help build something exciting while making a real impact on daily operations.