Kitchen Manager

Embark Recruiting Solutions; Columbus (OH); On-site; USD 42,000 - 54,000; Full time

Job summary

Embark Recruiting Solutions is seeking a hands-on Kitchen Manager in Columbus, OH to lead the back-of-house team in a fast-paced sports bar environment. You will oversee daily kitchen operations, ensure food quality and consistency, manage staffing, inventory, and cost controls, and maintain high standards even during peak times.

You should bring 2+ years of kitchen leadership experience, a hands-on leadership style, and strong communication skills.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of kitchen leadership experience (Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef, Chef, or similar).
• Experience in high-volume restaurant or sports bar environments preferred.
• ServSafe or other food safety certification is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Lead, train, coach, and develop kitchen staff; create a positive, team-oriented culture.
• Oversee day-to-day back-of-house operations and lead during service; ensure on-time, accurate prep and plating.
• Maintain recipe, portion, quality, and presentation standards; ensure readiness for each shift.
• Manage inventory, cost control, and adherence to food safety and cleanliness procedures.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Staff coaching

Food safety

Job description

Kitchen ManagerColumbus, OHDirect Hire / Full TimePosition Overview:We’re looking for a hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead our back-of-house team in a fast-paced, high-volume sports bar environment. This is a great opportunity for an experienced kitchen leader who enjoys being on the floor, developing a team, and making sure every shift runs smoothly. The Kitchen Manager will oversee daily kitchen operations, food quality and consistency, staffing, cleanliness, inventory, and overall execution. The right person will be a strong leader who can set the tone for the kitchen, keep the team motivated, and maintain high standards even when business gets busy.Key Responsibilities:Lead the Team• Lead, train, coach, and develop kitchen staff.• Create a positive, respectful, and team-oriented kitchen culture.• Set clear expectations and hold the team accountable to established standards.• Delegate responsibilities effectively and make sure the kitchen is properly staffed and prepared.• Provide hands-on coaching and feedback during service.• Assist with interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and training new team members.Run the Kitchen• Oversee day-to-day back-of-house operations and lead the kitchen during service.• Ensure food is prepared and served accurately, consistently, and on time.• Maintain recipe, portion, quality, and presentation standards.• Ensure prep is completed and the kitchen is ready for each shift.• Keep communication strong between the kitchen and front-of-house teams.• Stay calm and make good decisions during busy shifts and high-volume periods.• Jump in and work alongside the team when needed.Food Safety & Cleanliness• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen.• Ensure proper food handling, storage, labeling, rotation, and temperature procedures.• Follow all health department and food safety requirements.• Ensure kitchen equipment and work areas are properly maintained.• Address cleanliness or safety issues immediately.Inventory & Cost Control• Assist with ordering and receiving food and kitchen supplies.• Monitor inventory levels and product usage.• Maintain portion control and minimize food waste.• Conduct inventory counts and help manage food costs.• Ensure products are properly stored and rotated.What We’re Looking For• 2+ years of kitchen leadership experience as a Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef, Chef, or similar role.• Experience in a high-volume restaurant, sports bar, casual dining, or similar environment preferred.• Strong understanding of commercial kitchen operations and food safety.• A hands-on leadership style and the ability to lead by example.• Someone who can coach a team while also holding people accountable.• Organized, dependable, and able to stay composed under pressure.• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.• Comfortable working nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.• ServSafe or other food safety certification is a plus.Why This Role?This is an opportunity for a kitchen leader who wants to be part of a team, have a voice in the operation, and take ownership of the kitchen. We’re looking for someone who takes pride in great food, a clean and organized kitchen, and building a team that enjoys working together.If you’re an experienced kitchen leader who thrives in a busy environment and enjoys the energy of a sports bar, we’d like to hear from you.