Kitchen Manager

Jefferson City Pizza Ranch; Jefferson City (MO); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Job summary

Jefferson City Pizza Ranch is seeking a hands-on Kitchen Manager who leads our back-of-house operations with a focus on food quality, safety, and team culture.

You'll support the General Manager, supervise line cooks, manage inventory, schedule shifts, and uphold standards during high-volume dinner and weekend rushes. A proactive leader with strong communication is essential.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Proven restaurant or kitchen management experience preferred.
• Strong communication, organization, and leadership abilities.
• Proficient with basic computer skills and kitchen management systems.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations to ensure quality, cleanliness, and speed.
• Interview, hire, and train back-of-house team members.
• Manage inventory, food ordering, and cost controls.
• Lead during high-volume dinner and weekend shifts.
• Uphold safety, sanitation, and food safety standards.
• Collaborate with management for smooth shift transitions.

Skills

Leadership experience

Communication

Multitasking

Organizational skills

Basic computer skills

Kitchen management systems

Education

High school diploma or equivalent

Tools

Qualtrics

Kitchen management systems

Job description

Who We Are

Founded in Hull, Iowa in 1981, Pizza Ranch® has grown from a single location into one of the nation’s premier fast-casual restaurant chains. With over 200 locations across thirteen states, our concept combines a crave-worthy buffet of pizza, crispy ranch chicken, salads, desserts, and a full-service delivery and takeout model—all designed to serve up legendary experiences.

At the heart of Pizza Ranch is our mission:
"To establish every Pizza Ranch® as a business ministry opportunity where our guests receive a legendary experience through quality food and service; and where we take a positive leadership position in the communities we serve and equip our employees with tools to lead happy and productive lives."

We believe in positively impacting every guest, team member, and community we serve. If you’re someone who thrives in a fast-paced, people-focused environment and enjoys making a difference through food, service, and leadership—this is the place for you.

The Role: Kitchen Manager

As a Kitchen Manager, you’re more than just a culinary leader—you’re the driving force behind our food quality, kitchen operations, and back-of-house team culture. You’ll lead by example, helping create a high-performing environment that consistently delivers outstanding food and guest satisfaction. You’ll support the General Manager & Assistant General Manager in running day-to-day operations while ensuring food standards, safety, and cleanliness stay top-tier.

This is a hands-on leadership role, ideal for someone who can jump in during high-volume dinner and weekend rushes, motivate a team, and keep everything running like a well-oiled machine.

Key Responsibilities Include (but are not limited to):

• Oversee daily kitchen operations to ensure food quality, cleanliness, and speed of service
• Conduct regular inventory and manage food ordering to meet budget and demand
• Perform routine safety and cleanliness walkthroughs and uphold food safety protocols
• Interview, hire, and train back-of-house team members
• Implement and enforce progressive discipline when needed
• Assist with labor and food cost control strategies
• Use Qualtrics guest feedback data to identify areas for improvement
• Lead by example during peak hours, especially nights and weekends, by working the line and engaging with the team
• Maintain a clean, organized, and compliant kitchen that meets local and company standards
• Collaborate with the management team to ensure smooth shift transitions and team alignment

What We Expect:

• Increase food quality and presentation standards
• Uphold guest service expectations in every back-of-house interaction
• Actively work and lead during high-volume night and weekend rushes
• Promote a culture of accountability, safety, and professionalism
• Identify and develop team members for future leadership roles

What You Bring to the Table:

• A passion for food quality, cleanliness, and team development
• Proven experience in restaurant or kitchen management (preferred)
• Strong communication and organizational skills
• Ability to multitask in a high-energy environment
• Proficiency in basic computer skills and kitchen management systems
• High school diploma or equivalent required
• A drive to serve others and a positive leadership attitude

Join the Pizza Ranch team and become part of something legendary.