Central Kitchen Production Lead

Northgate Gonzalez Markets, Inc.; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Northgate Gonzalez Markets, Inc. is seeking a seasoned Kitchen Operations Lead to plan, implement, and manage central kitchen and Puestos production across store locations in California. You will train cooks, ensure recipe execution, and maintain sanitation, inventory, and cost controls.

This role requires strong leadership, bilingual communication preferred, and the ability to work across departments to optimize throughput, quality, and service while upholding GMP policies and safety standards.

Qualifications

• Must have strong leadership and supervisory skills.
• Must have current Food handlers certification.
• Must have excellent communication and mentoring abilities.
• Bi-lingual English–Spanish highly desirable.
• Experience in back-of-house kitchen operations.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs.
• Proficiency in Excel, Word, and Outlook.

Responsibilities

• Train and certify Puesto Team Leaders, Leads, and BOH associates with consistent practice.
• Plan and execute daily recipe production for Puestos in central kitchen.
• Maintain sanitary conditions and prevent cross-contamination.
• Monitor inventory and control costs while maintaining quality and safety standards.
• Collaborate with other departments to improve operational efficiencies.
• Lead by example to ensure exceptional customer service and teamwork.

Skills

Leadership

Supervisory experience

Customer service

Communication skills

Problem solving

Team coordination

Attention to detail

Mentoring

Excel

Word

Outlook

Tools

Microsoft Excel

Microsoft Word

Outlook

Job description

Northgate Gonzalez Markets, Inc. is seeking a seasoned Kitchen Operations Lead to plan, implement, and manage central kitchen and Puestos production across store locations in California. You will train cooks, ensure recipe execution, and maintain sanitation, inventory, and cost controls.

This role requires strong leadership, bilingual communication preferred, and the ability to work across departments to optimize throughput, quality, and service while upholding GMP policies and safety standards.