Kitchen Manager
Columbus, OH
Direct Hire / Full Time
Position Overview:
We’re looking for a hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead our back-of-house team in a fast-paced, high-volume sports bar environment. This is a great opportunity for an experienced kitchen leader who enjoys being on the floor, developing a team, and making sure every shift runs smoothly. The Kitchen Manager will oversee daily kitchen operations, food quality and consistency, staffing, cleanliness, inventory, and overall execution. The right person will be a strong leader who can set the tone for the kitchen, keep the team motivated, and maintain high standards even when business gets busy.
Key Responsibilities:
Lead the Team
• Lead, train, coach, and develop kitchen staff.
• Create a positive, respectful, and team-oriented kitchen culture.
• Set clear expectations and hold the team accountable to established standards.
• Delegate responsibilities effectively and make sure the kitchen is properly staffed and prepared.
• Provide hands-on coaching and feedback during service.
• Assist with interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and training new team members.
Run the Kitchen
• Oversee day-to-day back-of-house operations and lead the kitchen during service.
• Ensure food is prepared and served accurately, consistently, and on time.
• Maintain recipe, portion, quality, and presentation standards.
• Ensure prep is completed and the kitchen is ready for each shift.
• Keep communication strong between the kitchen and front-of-house teams.
• Stay calm and make good decisions during busy shifts and high-volume periods.
• Jump in and work alongside the team when needed.
Food Safety & Cleanliness
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen.
• Ensure proper food handling, storage, labeling, rotation, and temperature procedures.
• Follow all health department and food safety requirements.
• Ensure kitchen equipment and work areas are properly maintained.
• Address cleanliness or safety issues immediately.
Inventory & Cost Control
• Assist with ordering and receiving food and kitchen supplies.
• Monitor inventory levels and product usage.
• Maintain portion control and minimize food waste.
• Conduct inventory counts and help manage food costs.
• Ensure products are properly stored and rotated.
What We’re Looking For
• 2+ years of kitchen leadership experience as a Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef, Chef, or similar role.
• Experience in a high-volume restaurant, sports bar, casual dining, or similar environment preferred.
• Strong understanding of commercial kitchen operations and food safety.
• A hands-on leadership style and the ability to lead by example.
• Someone who can coach a team while also holding people accountable.
• Organized, dependable, and able to stay composed under pressure.
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills.
• Comfortable working nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• ServSafe or other food safety certification is a plus.
Why This Role?
This is an opportunity for a kitchen leader who wants to be part of a team, have a voice in the operation, and take ownership of the kitchen. We’re looking for someone who takes pride in great food, a clean and organized kitchen, and building a team that enjoys working together.
If you’re an experienced kitchen leader who thrives in a busy environment and enjoys the energy of a sports bar, we’d like to hear from you.