Lead Line Cook

APA Hotels Woodbridge; Woodbridge Township (NJ); On-site; USD 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

APA Hotels Woodbridge is seeking a Lead Line Cook to oversee daily kitchen operations in a fast-paced environment. Responsibilities include leading and supervising line cooks, ensuring food quality, and maintaining safety standards. The ideal candidate will have 3+ years of professional kitchen experience and preference for leadership roles.

Work environment involves high pressure and flexibility with schedules, including nights and weekends. A welcoming attitude and strong work ethic are essential.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in a professional kitchen.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations.
• Ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.

Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise line cooks during prep and service.
• Ensure all dishes are prepared according to recipes and quality standards.
• Coordinate ticket flow and manage timing for efficient service.
• Assist with food prep, cooking, and plating as needed.
• Train and mentor new kitchen staff.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation.
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate shortages to management.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Step in to support other stations during busy periods.
• Assist with opening and closing kitchen duties.

Skills

Leadership and team motivation

Attention to detail and consistency

Ability to multitask and prioritize

Problem-solving under pressure

Reliability and strong work ethic

Job description

The Lead Line Cook oversees daily kitchen operations on the line, ensuring food is prepared efficiently, consistently, and to the highest quality standards. This role supports kitchen leadership by supervising line staff, maintaining organization during service, and upholding food safety and cleanliness standards in a fast-paced environment.

We are a drug-free workplace and participate in E-Verify.

What you will be doing

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and supervise line cooks during prep and service
• Ensure all dishes are prepared according to recipes, quality standards, and presentation guidelines
• Coordinate ticket flow and manage timing to ensure efficient service
• Assist with food prep, cooking, and plating as needed
• Train and mentor new kitchen staff
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation
• Monitor inventory levels and communicate shortages to management
• Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health regulations
• Step in to support other stations during busy periods
• Assist with opening and closing kitchen duties

Requirements: Due to the cyclical nature of the hospitality industry, employees may be required to work varying schedules (including nights, holidays and weekends) to reflect the business needs of the hotel. In addition, attendance at all scheduled training sessions and meetings is required.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of experience in a professional kitchen
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience preferred
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and kitchen operations
• Ability to work in a high-pressure, fast-paced environment
• Excellent time management and organizational skills
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities

Skills & Traits

• Leadership and team motivation
• Attention to detail and consistency
• Ability to multitask and prioritize
• Problem-solving under pressure
• Reliability and strong work ethic

Work Environment

• Fast-paced kitchen setting with high heat and noise levels
• Requires standing for long periods and lifting up to 50 lbs.
• Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays

All employees are required to project a friendly, welcoming, and positive attitude.