Tapas Kitchen Lead: Ops, Quality & Training

Bocado Tapas; Barrington (IL); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Bocado Tapas in Barrington, IL, is seeking an experienced Kitchen Manager to lead daily back-of-house operations and uphold our tapas-centered menu. You will ensure food quality, safety, and cost controls while training and coaching a high-performing team.

Work closely with the General Manager to implement recipes, standards, and service expectations across busy service periods, takeout, and catering as needed.

Qualifications

• Three+ years of progressively responsible kitchen experience with leadership or supervisory duties.
• Experience in a full-service, high-volume, or fast-paced restaurant environment preferred.
• Strong knowledge of food-safety and sanitation requirements.
• Ability to train, motivate, and hold staff accountable in a professional, respectful manner.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations across prep, production, service and closing.
• Maintain established standards for food quality, taste, and presentation.
• Ensure recipes and plating specifications are followed.
• Hire, train, schedule, coach, and supervise kitchen staff.
• Provide direction during service and step into production as needed.
• Monitor staffing and labor costs based on business needs.
• Manage purchasing, inventory, and cost controls to minimize waste.
• Ensure kitchen readiness for volume, events, takeout, and catering.
• Maintain compliance with health, safety, and sanitation requirements.
• Ensure kitchen equipment is maintained and cleaned.
• Partner with GM to support guest experience and resolve quality concerns.

Skills

Leadership

Kitchen operations

Cost control

Staff training

Communication

Job description

Bocado Tapas in Barrington, IL, is seeking an experienced Kitchen Manager to lead daily back-of-house operations and uphold our tapas-centered menu. You will ensure food quality, safety, and cost controls while training and coaching a high-performing team.

Work closely with the General Manager to implement recipes, standards, and service expectations across busy service periods, takeout, and catering as needed.