Kitchen Manager

Hooters, Inc.; The Villages (FL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Leadership development programs

Growth and promotional opportunities

Career advancement opportunities

Fun, energetic team environment

Employee discounts

Referral program

Brand commitment to hospitality andex

Job summary

Tacos & Tequila Cantina in Florida is seeking a Kitchen Manager to lead back-of-house operations, ensure menu quality, and coach a high-performing culinary team.

You will manage inventory and costs, uphold food safety standards, and collaborate with front-of-house leadership to deliver an exceptional guest experience.

This role offers a fast-paced, energetic environment with opportunities for growth and leadership development.

Qualifications

• Proven leadership of back-of-house teams in high-volume dining.
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards and sanitation.
• Experience with inventory, ordering, and food cost control.
• Ability to coach, motivate, and develop staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Kitchen Team: Recruit, train, coach, and develop a high-performing back-of-house team; set expectations and provide feedback; lead by example during service.
• Deliver Exceptional Food Quality: Ensure menu items are prepared per recipes and standards; maintain consistency and quality across shifts.
• Drive Food Safety & Sanitation: Maintain a clean, safe kitchen compliant with health regulations; enforce proper handling and labeling.
• Manage Costs & Inventory: Oversee ordering, receiving, inventory, and storage; monitor labor to meet budget.
• Support Restaurant Success: Collaborate with FOH leadership and assist with menu rollouts and operational initiatives.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Food safety

Inventory management

Team development

Operations efficiency

Communication

Problem solving

Flexibility

Job description

Tacos & Tequila Cantina is redefining Tex-Mex with bold flavors, fresh ingredients, handcrafted tortillas, and an energetic atmosphere that keeps guests coming back for more. Our menu blends funky, unconventional Tex-Mex with Americana favorites, complemented by signature margaritas and an extensive selection of premium tequilas. Fresh, local ingredients, vibrant flavors, great music, and a passionate team create the one-of-a-kind experience that sets us apart.

At Tacos & Tequila Cantina, we are committed to delivering exceptional food, unforgettable hospitality, and Over-the-Top Service. Our culture is built around our core values of Teamwork, Accountability, Communication, and Over-the-Top Service (T.A.C.O.), and we're looking for leaders who are passionate about culinary excellence and developing high-performing teams.

Benefits Include:

• Employee discounts
• Referral program
• Tenure & recognition awards
• Competitive compensation
• Growth and promotional opportunities
• Leadership development programs
• Fun, energetic team environment

What We're Looking For:

• Previous kitchen leadership or management experience in a high-volume restaurant environment
• Strong knowledge of food preparation, food safety, and sanitation standards
• Experience with inventory management, ordering, and food cost control
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop teams
• Strong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail
• ServSafe Manager Certification (or ability to obtain)
• Professional, positive, and results-driven leadership style
• Flexible availability, including nights, weekends, and holidays

Perks of the Role:

• Lead a passionate culinary team in a fast-growing restaurant concept
• Make a direct impact on food quality, guest satisfaction, and restaurant success
• Opportunities for career advancement and leadership growth
• Work in a fun, energetic, and team-focused environment
• Be part of a brand committed to innovation, hospitality, and excellence

Ready to lead the heart of the restaurant?

Bring your leadership, passion for great food, and commitment to excellence to Tacos & Tequila Cantina. Join us in setting new standards for tacos, hospitality, and unforgettable guest experiences.

Requirements

The Kitchen Manager is the leader of our back-of-house operations, responsible for ensuring exceptional food quality, kitchen efficiency, food safety compliance, and team performance. This role oversees all culinary operations, develops and coaches kitchen team members, manages inventory and food costs, and ensures every plate leaving the kitchen meets Tacos & Tequila Cantina standards.

What You'll Do:

Lead the Kitchen Team

• Recruit, train, coach, and develop a high-performing back-of-house team.
• Create a culture of accountability, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
• Set clear performance expectations and provide ongoing feedback and support.
• Lead by example during service and inspire excellence throughout the kitchen.

Deliver Exceptional Food Quality

• Ensure all menu items are prepared according to recipes, specifications, and presentation standards.
• Maintain consistency, freshness, and quality across every shift.
• Execute line checks and quality inspections to uphold brand standards.
• Partner with restaurant leadership to provide an outstanding guest experience.

Drive Food Safety & Sanitation

• Maintain a clean, safe, sanitary, and organized kitchen environment.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations and health department standards.
• Enforce proper food handling, storage, labeling, rotation, and temperature controls.
• Promote a culture where safety and cleanliness are non-negotiable.

Manage Costs & Inventory

• Oversee food ordering, receiving, inventory, and product storage.
• Control food costs through proper portioning, waste reduction, and inventory management.
• Monitor kitchen labor performance and scheduling to support business goals.
• Ensure products are available to meet operational needs while maintaining budget expectations.

Support Restaurant Success

• Collaborate with front-of-house leadership to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Assist with menu rollouts, recipe training, and operational initiatives.
• Identify opportunities to improve efficiency, profitability, and team performance.
• Help drive restaurant success through strong leadership and operational excellence.