Culinary Lead: Precision Kitchen Champion

Sweetgreen; New York (NY); On-site; USD 21,000 - 29,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tips (subject to location)

Competitive wages

Medical, dental, and vision options

Paid vacation, wellness time, parental

Free meal every shift

401(k)

Job summary

Sweetgreen is seeking a Culinary Lead to own food quality in a fast-paced kitchen. You’ll set standards for prep, cooking, and presentation, lead by example, and coach teammates on execution without people-management duties.

There are no grills or fryers—this role focuses on craft, smart systems, and consistent, real food. Top performers have a pathway to General Manager within 2–3 years.

Qualifications

• Food safety knowledge and certification required.
• Experience in high-volume kitchens (fast casual, QSR, or similar).
• Ability to coach peers through real-time feedback and maintain standards.

Responsibilities

• Own food quality and ensure every item meets standards for flavor, safety, and presentation.
• Prep and cook hot food using knives, tools, and ovens (no grills or fryer oil).
• Mentor teammates on food execution and ensure smooth kitchen operations.
• Manage prep timing and par levels to handle volume.
• Advocate for food quality and uphold safety and cleanliness with the team.
• Partner with Shift Leaders and Managers to maintain operational excellence.

Skills

Food safety knowledge

Leadership (non-manager)

Real-time feedback

High-volume kitchen experience

Education

Food Handler or ServSafe certification

Tools

Knives

Kitchen tools

Ovens

Job description

Sweetgreen is seeking a Culinary Lead to own food quality in a fast-paced kitchen. You’ll set standards for prep, cooking, and presentation, lead by example, and coach teammates on execution without people-management duties.

There are no grills or fryers—this role focuses on craft, smart systems, and consistent, real food. Top performers have a pathway to General Manager within 2–3 years.