Kitchen manager

*Job Summary* We are looking for a Kitchen Manager to take ownership of the day-to-day operations of our cafe kitchen! This is a hands-on leadership position responsible for keeping the kitchen organized, efficient, well-staffed, and consistently producing high-quality food. The Kitchen Manager will work closely with the cafe owners to maintain food quality and safety standards, control labour and food costs, manage inventory and ordering, train and schedule kitchen staff, and ensure the kitchen is fully prepared for daily service. The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, calm under pressure, and enjoys being actively involved in the kitchen. *Key Responsibilities* _Kitchen Operations & Daily Service_ * Oversee the daily operation of the cafe kitchen from opening through closing. * Ensure the kitchen is fully prepared for service each day. * Create and maintain daily and weekly prep lists based on expected sales and menu requirements. * Organize prep, production, service, and closing duties to ensure an efficient workflow. * Monitor food levels throughout service and ensure products are replenished as needed. * Step into food preparation and service as required, particularly during busy periods. * Ensure all menu items are prepared consistently according to established recipes and standards. * Identify and resolve operational issues quickly and effectively. * Maintain an organized, clean, and professional kitchen throughout the day. * Assist with dishes, as needed. _Food Quality & Menu Standards_ * Maintain consistent food quality, flavour, portion sizes, and presentation. * Ensure recipes and portion specifications are followed by all kitchen staff. * Regularly check prepared food for quality and freshness. * Assist with developing and testing new menu items and seasonal specials. * Help update recipes and kitchen procedures as menu items change. * Ensure kitchen staff are properly trained on new menu items and procedures. * Provide feedback to owners on menu items, customer feedback, and opportunities for improvement. _Inventory, Ordering & Food Cost_ * Take responsibility for maintaining appropriate inventory levels. * Complete regular inventory counts and communicate ordering requirements. * Place or assist with weekly food and supply orders. * Receive deliveries and ensure products are checked for quantity, quality, and freshness. * Organize storage areas and ensure proper FIFO rotation. * Monitor product usage, waste, spoilage, and portion sizes. * Track and reduce unnecessary food waste. * Work with ownership to maintain established food-cost targets. * Identify opportunities to reduce costs without compromising food quality. * Communicate shortages, price increases, or supplier issues to management. _Labour & Scheduling_ * Assist with creating and maintaining the kitchen staff schedule. * Ensure appropriate kitchen coverage based on projected sales and business levels. * Monitor kitchen labour and help maintain established labour targets. * Assign daily responsibilities and ensure staff remain productive during slower periods. * Approve or coordinate shift changes in accordance with cafe policies. * Communicate staffing concerns and scheduling needs to ownership. * Help identify when additional staffing or reduced hours are required based on business levels. _Team Leadership & Training_ * Lead the kitchen team by example and maintain a positive, respectful work environment. * Train new kitchen employees on recipes, prep procedures, food safety, cleaning, and service standards. * Ensure all kitchen employees understand their responsibilities. * Provide ongoing coaching and feedback. * Address performance or attendance issues promptly and professionally. * Encourage teamwork and clear communication between the kitchen and front-of-house teams. * Recognize strong performance and help develop staff skills. * Ensure staff follow all cafe policies and procedures. _Food Safety & Cleanliness_ * Maintain hi