Pit Master

Saveway Market; Salmon (ID); On-site; USD 17,908 - 24,796; Full time

Job summary

Saveway Market in Salmon, ID is seeking a Pit Master / BBQ Program Lead to manage the store’s smoked meats and BBQ program. The role involves overseeing the preparation and merchandising of barbecue products while ensuring food safety and quality standards are met.

Candidates should have experience in BBQ and food safety practices. Responsibilities include operating BBQ equipment, preparing meats, and developing value-added products. The position offers a competitive hourly salary.

Qualifications

• Experience in BBQ, smoking meats, or commercial kitchen cooking preferred.
• Meat cutting or meat department experience is a plus.
• Ability to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Responsibilities

• Operate and maintain smokers and BBQ equipment safely and efficiently.
• Prepare and smoke meats including brisket, ribs, pork butt, and chicken.
• Monitor cooking temperatures, smoke levels, and cooking times for quality.

Skills

Experience in BBQ, smoking meats, or commercial kitchen cooking

Knowledge of seasoning, marinating, and cooking techniques for various meats

Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation practices

Ability to operate smokers and cooking equipment safely

Strong attention to detail and consistency in food preparation

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: SALMON, ID 83467, Salary Range: $13.00 - $18.00 Hourly.

The Pit Master / BBQ Program Lead is responsible for operating and managing the store’s smoked meats and BBQ program. This role oversees the preparation, seasoning, smoking, and merchandising of high-quality barbecue products while maintaining strict food safety and quality standards. The Pit Master will also lead the store’s value-added meat program, creating seasoned and marinated ready‑to‑cook meat products that enhance customer convenience and drive department sales.

Key Responsibilities

BBQ & Smoked Meats Program

• Operate and maintain smokers and BBQ equipment safely and efficiently
• Prepare and smoke meats including brisket, ribs, pork butt, chicken, and other specialty items
• Manage smoking schedules to ensure consistent product availability and freshness
• Monitor cooking temperatures, smoke levels, and cooking times to maintain consistent quality
• Slice, portion, package, and merchandise smoked meats for retail sale

Value-Added Meat Production

• Oversee the preparation of marinated, seasoned, and ready-to-cook meat products
• Develop new value-added products to increase sales and customer convenience
• Ensure all products are properly labeled, packaged, and rotated
• Maintain consistent flavor profiles and quality standards across all products

Quality & Food Safety

• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and HACCP procedures
• Maintain clean, organized production and cooking areas
• Ensure proper handling, storage, and temperature control of all products
• Monitor product freshness and ensure proper rotation (FIFO)

Merchandising & Sales

• Work with department leadership to plan BBQ and value-added product offerings
• Maintain attractive displays and product presentation
• Support promotions, seasonal BBQ offerings, and special events
• Provide product knowledge and recommendations to customers

Team Leadership & Operations

• Assist in managing production levels to meet demand
• Monitor inventory levels of meats, spices, marinades, and packaging supplies
• Help maintain equipment and report maintenance needs

Qualifications

• Experience in BBQ, smoking meats, or commercial kitchen cooking preferred
• Meat cutting or meat department experience is a plus
• Knowledge of seasoning, marinating, and cooking techniques for various meats
• Strong understanding of food safety and sanitation practices
• Ability to operate smokers and cooking equipment safely
• Strong attention to detail and consistency in food preparation
• Ability to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays as needed

Physical Requirements

• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to stand for extended periods
• Ability to work in hot environments around cooking equipment