Lead Kitchen Chef & Culinary Mentor

Island Spa & Sauna; Edison (NJ); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Island Spa & Sauna is seeking a lead kitchen professional to guide the team, supervise food prep and plating, and ensure service excellence. You will mentor junior staff, manage stock with FIFO, and optimize station layouts for peak periods.

The role emphasizes menu development, strict food safety, and ongoing staff growth in a fast-paced restaurant environment. A GED/HS diploma and ServSafe certification are required.

Qualifications

• Minimum GED or High School Diploma required.
• NJ SERV Safe Certification required.
• Experience leading a professional kitchen team.
• Strong knowledge of culinary techniques and sanitation.
• Ability to train and develop staff in a fast-paced setting.
• Ability to read recipes and production sheets accurately.
• Experience with inventory, waste control, and kitchen productivity.
• Willingness to work nights, weekends, holidays, and peak periods.

Responsibilities

• Lead the kitchen team with clear direction and support.
• Mentor junior staff in line cooking, prep, and plating.
• Manage stock with FIFO to ensure freshness and quality.
• Organize cooking stations for peak hours to boost efficiency.
• Oversee all food prep and presentation for quality and consistency.
• Assist in menu development aligned with culinary standards and guests.
• Maintain kitchen organization and pursue staff development.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and storage regulations.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary techniques

Menu development

Food safety

Education

GED/HS Diploma

NJ SERV Safe Certification

Tools

POS systems

Inventory software

Job description

Island Spa & Sauna is seeking a lead kitchen professional to guide the team, supervise food prep and plating, and ensure service excellence. You will mentor junior staff, manage stock with FIFO, and optimize station layouts for peak periods.

The role emphasizes menu development, strict food safety, and ongoing staff growth in a fast-paced restaurant environment. A GED/HS diploma and ServSafe certification are required.