Kitchen Leader

maman lexington; New York (NY); On-site; USD 70,000 - 85,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Healthcare options

401k

Paid time off

In-store discounts

Professional development

Job summary

Maman in New York is seeking a Kitchen Leader to oversee all kitchen operations, uphold quality and safety standards, and lead the back-of-house team. The role focuses on daily execution, inventory management, and ensuring profitability without compromising guest experience.

You will train staff, manage inventory, and support menu rollouts in collaboration with regional leadership. Fluency in English and Spanish is required for effective team leadership.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of kitchen leadership or senior BOH experience preferred.
• Fluent in English and Spanish.
• Strong understanding of food safety and health regulations.
• Ability to lead in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Excellent leadership and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Own daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, production, and quality standards.
• Ensure consistent execution of recipes, presentation, and portioning.
• Maintain cleanliness of all kitchen areas and prep spaces.
• Lead menu rollouts and staff training for new items.
• Support events and ensure food requirements and standards are met.
• Hire, onboard, and coach BOH team members.
• Ensure scheduling, uniforms, and staff policies are followed.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Problem-solving

Time management

Bilingual English/Spanish

Job description

Maman - Kitchen Leader

maman is a french bakery, café and leading lifestyle brand founded in 2014 by owners elisa marshall & benjamin sormonte, with locations across north america and canada. inspired by family traditions, and the highest quality ingredients, maman offers a selection of delicious baked goods {including their famous nutty chocolate chip cookie}, coffee, fresh breakfast, and lunch options spanning from hearty salads & sandwiches to savory quiches. in addition to hosting intimate events, maman has partnered with leading brands for partnerships and activations. from baby showers and birthday parties to engagements, we’re able to help celebrate customers & make new beautiful memories. in september 2021, maman founders elisa marshall & benjamin sormonte released the highly anticipated maman: the cookbook.

our ideal candidate is an experienced culinary professional who brings energy, respect, and passion to their everyday interactions. you are a natural leader and problem solver who thrives taking full ownership of all back of house operations. you maintain operational excellence by upholding the highest standards of quality, consistency, safety, and brand integrity, and are fluent in both english and spanish.

Position Summary

The Kitchen Leader is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring consistent food quality, safety, and efficiency while leading and developing the back of house team. This role owns daily kitchen execution, inventory management, compliance with health and safety standards, and supports profitability goals without compromising guest experience. The Kitchen Leader also plays a key role in training, scheduling, and developing future culinary leaders. In partnership with regional leadership and General Managers, they foster a collaborative, four-walls culture in their location.

Essential Responsibilities

Kitchen Operations & Food Quality

• Own daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, production, and overall quality standards
• Ensure consistent execution of recipes, presentation, and portioning standards
• Maintain cleanliness of all kitchen areas, including line and prep spaces
• Actively work and lead all menu rollouts, overseeing preparation, execution, and staff training
• Support flawless execution of location events, ensuring all food requirements and standards are met

Safety & Compliance

• Ensure compliance with all health, safety, and sanitation regulations as directed by State and local governments
• Keep all back of house areas inspection-ready at all times and maintaining passing grade according to local and state regulations
• Uphold sanitation, cleanliness, and safety protocols at all times
• Obtain and maintain a valid Food Handler’s Certificate within one month of starting the role

Inventory, Ordering & Cost Control

• Manage monthly inventory
• Place orders with all our suppliers and on MarginEdge commissary products
• Monitor and control food costs while identifying areas of waste or excess
• Ensure kitchen operations align with budget and profitability goals

Leadership & Team Development

• Hire, onboard, train, and develop BOH team members
• Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and performance documentation as needed
• Ensure alignment with company standards including scheduling, uniforms, and staff meal policies
• Ensure proper scheduling and staffing coverage to meet business needs
• Review and address timekeeping accuracy, including coaching on compliance with company policies

Qualifications & Skills

• 2+ years of kitchen leadership or senior BOH experience preferred
• Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and Health Department regulations
• Proven experience managing inventory, ordering, and food cost control
• Ability to lead in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
• Excellent leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Strong organizational and time management skills
• Ability to work flexible hours, including weekends, holidays, menu rollouts and peak business days
• Bi-lingual in English and Spanish

What We Offer

At maman, we’re proud to provide a supportive and people-first environment where leaders can thrive and grow. Our Regional Culinary Directors enjoy:

• A collaborative culture that values teamwork, initiative, and continuous improvement
• Competitive salary and growth opportunities within a fast-growing brand
• Comprehensive healthcare options, 401k, commuter benefits and more
• Paid time off and a flexible, supportive work environment
• Ongoing professional development, training, and opportunities for internal mobility
• Sweet perks cookies, coffee, and in-store discounts
• A company culture where we roll up our sleeves, support one another, and celebrate shared success

Experience

• Kitchen lead: 2 years (Preferred)
• Supervising Experience: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification

• Food Handler Certification (Required)

Work Location

In person