Kitchen Operations Lead Consistent Quality & Team Training

Pali Wine Co.; San Diego (CA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

Pali Wine Co. in San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood seeks a Kitchen Manager to lead daily kitchen operations and ensure a welcoming, wine-focused dining experience.

You will execute an established menu, train the kitchen team, manage prep and inventory, and deliver food within ticket-time standards. This role requires strong organization, clear communication, and daily accountability with leadership input on menu direction.

Qualifications

• Experience leading a kitchen team in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong cooking fundamentals and ability to execute standardized recipes.
• Experience managing prep, inventory, ordering, and service timing.
• Ability to train cooks and maintain consistent standards.
• Required food safety certification, or willingness to obtain it.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations and ensure consistent food quality across shifts.
• Oversee prep planning, production quantities, and station readiness.
• Monitor ticket times and coordinate order timing with service team to hit standards.
• Train, supervise, and schedule line cooks and kitchen staff; uphold cleanliness and professionalism.
• Manage purchasing, inventory, and cost controls to meet budgets.
• Collaborate with ownership and GM on menu implementation and approvals.
• Uphold food safety, sanitation, allergen procedures, and inspection readiness.
• Define measures of success: consistent quality, menu availability, and efficient service.

Skills

Kitchen leadership

Cooking fundamentals

Prep & inventory management

Staff training

Food safety certification

Job description

Pali Wine Co. in San Diego’s Hillcrest neighborhood seeks a Kitchen Manager to lead daily kitchen operations and ensure a welcoming, wine-focused dining experience.

You will execute an established menu, train the kitchen team, manage prep and inventory, and deliver food within ticket-time standards. This role requires strong organization, clear communication, and daily accountability with leadership input on menu direction.