Culinary Lead — Flexible Hours & Inspiring Classes

CSC Generation; Portland (OR); On-site; USD 45,000 - 48,000; Full time

Job summary

Sur La Table in Portland, OR is seeking a Culinary Lead to inspire customers through hands-on coaching, classes and events, while building a high-performing culinary team. You will balance culinary expertise with business acumen to drive sales and deliver exceptional guest experiences.

The role emphasizes teaching, brand representation, safety compliance, and ongoing staff development in a fast-paced retail environment. Flexibility for evenings and weekends is required.

Qualifications

• ,
• Must be 21 years of age or older at the time of employment.
• A degree in culinary arts is preferred; however, candidates with extensive culinary experience and demonstrated technical proficiency will be considered in lieu of formal education.
• 1-2 years of progressively responsible kitchen management experience.
• Valid Food Manager Certification.
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
• Passion for community engagement and providing exceptional customer experiences.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and retail systems preferred.

Responsibilities

• Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing culinary team.
• Lead, coach, and inspire associates to exceed performance expectations and uphold a positive team culture.
• Provide in-the-moment coaching and feedback to elevate performance and team engagement.
• Represent Sur La Table’s brand and culture by creating memorable, educational experiences that inspire repeat visits and customer loyalty.
• Ensure outstanding cooking class experience in every session by following provided recipes and game plans while holding employees accountable for quality and execution.
• Work with store leadership to increase foot traffic and store engagement through cooking classes and private events.
• Ensure exceptional customer experience by leading a customer-focused, Guest Obsessed culture in both the kitchen and retail sales floor.
• Assist with driving sales growth by implementing strategies to enhance the culinary and retail business.
• Analyze key performance metrics daily and leverage insights to optimize store performance.
• Consistently meet or exceed culinary program goals by delivering exceptional classes that drive customer engagement and sales.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Coaching

Problem-solving

Customer experience

Education

Culinary arts degree preferred

Tools

Microsoft Office

Retail systems

Job description

Sur La Table in Portland, OR is seeking a Culinary Lead to inspire customers through hands-on coaching, classes and events, while building a high-performing culinary team. You will balance culinary expertise with business acumen to drive sales and deliver exceptional guest experiences.

The role emphasizes teaching, brand representation, safety compliance, and ongoing staff development in a fast-paced retail environment. Flexibility for evenings and weekends is required.