Shift Lead, Kitchen

Sightglass Coffee Roasters; Los Angeles (CA); On-site; USD 31,684 - 34,440; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical, dental, and vision coverage

401(k) plan

Paid time off

Free coffee at Sightglass cafes

Bean discounts

Job summary

Sightglass Coffee Roasters in Los Angeles is seeking a Shift Lead, Kitchen to support food preparation, quality, and efficient kitchen operations. You will lead by example, oversee inventory, and collaborate with the Kitchen Manager to maintain high standards and smooth production.

Responsibilities include quality control across prep and line stations, ordering and cost monitoring, training staff, recipe development, and implementing safety and sanitation practices in a fast-paced cafe

Qualifications

• Lead with strong leadership and ability to motivate teams.
• Proficient with basic computer apps and inventory systems.
• Able to obtain and maintain ServSafe certification.
• Experience in high energy kitchen environments.

Responsibilities

• Ensures quality control of prep, line, and deli stations.
• Takes inventory, writes production lists, and maintains records.
• Places vendor orders and monitors food costing.
• Oversees quantity, quality, and safety standards with staff.
• Trains kitchen personnel and supports recipe development.

Skills

Leadership

Team motivation

Problem solving

Multitasking

Attention to detail

Education

ServSafe certification

Tools

Google Sheets

Inventory tracking systems

Food costing platforms

Job description

Job Details: Job Location: Los Angeles, CA 90038 Salary Range: $23.50 - $25.00 Hourly

Overview

The Shift Lead, Kitchen is responsible for assisting in all aspects of food preparation and kitchen operations. They will assist in overseeing portion and inventory control, food quality, kitchen organization, and cleanliness. They provide hands‑on assistance to the kitchen staff, and help to ensure a focused and efficient execution of production. In addition to maintaining our vision by adhering to our values and management principles, this position must lead others by example and communicate any observations, issues, and ideas to the Kitchen Manager.

Responsibilities

• Ensures quality control of prep, line, and deli stations, maintaining high standards of quality and appearance for all food prepared and served.
• Takes daily inventory, writes the daily production list, and maintains inventory records using company systems and spreadsheets.
• Conducts monthly inventory as assigned.
• Places vendor orders through online ordering portals and monitors food costing platforms to support cost control and budget goals.
• Verifies that portion sizes, quality standards, and department rules, policies, and procedures are maintained by kitchen employees.
• Works with a sense of urgency and attention to detail; teaches and promotes the same work ethic in other cooks.
• Assists with training kitchen personnel.
• Assists with regular kitchen duties as needed, including prep work, line cook support, and cleaning and organizing the kitchen.
• Assists the Kitchen Manager with recipe development and operational efficiency on the hot and cold lines.
• Helps the Kitchen Manager and FOH leadership roll out new menu items.
• Provides feedback on kitchen operations, menu items, and policies.
• Partners with BOH and FOH leadership to resolve problems and support restaurant, cafe, and kitchen needs.
• Adheres to and ensures accountability around company policies, including but not limited to cash handling, product standards, safety standards, cleanliness standards, facility maintenance, and hospitality best practices.
• Provides both reinforcing and constructive feedback to the team in a respectful manner; demonstrates strong leadership and is empathetic and supportive when engaging with the team.
• Upholds and follows all health and food safety guidelines.
• Sets the tone for the team by practicing and modeling a positive, solution‑oriented attitude.

Qualifications

• Able to obtain and/or maintain a valid ServSafe certification
• Proficient with basic computer applications, including food costing platforms, vendor ordering portals, inventory tracking, and Google Sheets.
• 1+ years of a lead position in production
• Able to obtain and/or maintain any government required licenses, certificates or permits
• Strong leadership skills, ability to motivate teams to consistently produce great food
• Possesses ability to teach, learn and utilizes a problem‑solving approach
• Ability to multitask and adept at working effectively in high energy and busy environments and works well under pressure
• Passion for good food and quality customer experiences
• Excellent knife skills
• Must love and enjoy working with food and able to distinguish product, taste, texture, temperature, and presentation and preparation
• Must be able to legally work in the United States

Physical Demands & Work Environment

• Able to work 8+ hour shifts while standing or walking for extended periods of time.
• Able to work a flexible schedule to meet the needs of the business, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Able to grasp, lift and carry up to 50 pounds as needed.
• Able to maneuver effectively around the kitchen, restaurant office, and up/downstairs.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage for all full‑time employees – 80% contribution to base plan monthly premium
• 401(k) plan
• Paid time off
• Free coffee at any Sightglass cafe and a weekly bag of beans
• Discounts on food, merchandise, extra bags of beans, and more

Sightglass is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We deliver an ever‑evolving and consistently excellent coffee experience. We approach coffee holistically, establishing relationships at every step. We stay true to our welcoming and resourceful culture.