Culinary Lead — Precision Kitchen Quality

sweetgreen; Northbrook (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Tips

Competitive wages

Leadership progression

Medical vision dental

Paid vacation

Parental leave

Free meal

401(k)

Merchandise shop

Job summary

Sweetgreen in Northbrook, IL is seeking a Culinary Lead to own food quality, prep, and presentation, leading by example through craft, coaching, and consistency.

This non-manager role sets the standard for food prep and quality across shifts, without creating schedules or conducting reviews. It offers growth toward Shift Leader and Manager positions and emphasizes safety, teamwork, and operational excellence.

Qualifications

• Must meet physical requirements and be able to stand for long periods.
• Must be 18 years or older and authorized to work in the United States.
• Ability to maintain attention to detail and food safety standards.

Responsibilities

• Own food quality by ensuring every item meets Sweetgreen standards for flavor, safety, and presentation.
• Prep and cook hot foods using knives and kitchen tools (no grills or fryers).
• Provide real-time feedback to teammates to improve food execution.
• Manage prep timing and par levels to handle high-volume demand.
• Advocate for quality on shift and address issues quickly.
• Partner with Shift Leaders and Managers to uphold safety and operational excellence.

Skills

Food quality management

Leadership without people management

Coaching and training peers

High-volume kitchen experience

Job description

Sweetgreen in Northbrook, IL is seeking a Culinary Lead to own food quality, prep, and presentation, leading by example through craft, coaching, and consistency.

This non-manager role sets the standard for food prep and quality across shifts, without creating schedules or conducting reviews. It offers growth toward Shift Leader and Manager positions and emphasizes safety, teamwork, and operational excellence.