Lead Cook/Kitchen Manager

CraftWorx Taproom

Gainesville, Virginia

JOB DETAILS
SKILLS
Business Growth, Coaching, Communication Skills, Cook Dishes, Detail Oriented, Driver's License, Food Preparation, Inventory Management, Leadership, Lift/Move 50 Pounds, Operations, Operations Management, Organizational Skills, Quality Management, Schedule Development, Team Player, Willing to Travel
LOCATION
Gainesville, Virginia
POSTED
30+ days ago
  • Are you a passionate cook with leadership chops and a love for great food? Do you take pride in running a clean, efficient kitchen and still enjoy jumping on the line to get things done?

    CraftWorx is looking for a skilled, motivated Kitchen Manager / Head Cook to lead kitchen operations across our two locations. We're not looking for clipboard chefs; this role is both strategic and hands-on. You'll help steer the ship and roll up your sleeves when needed.

    About Us

    CraftWorx Taproom (Gainesville) is a 70-tap self-pour beer and cocktail hall with elevated casual fare, live music, and a lively vibe.
    CraftWorx BBQ & Brews (Bristow) is our upcoming KC style BBQ (with beer) concept home to house-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and fan-favorite comfort food

    We're locally owned, team-oriented, and growing and we need a strong kitchen leader to help us continue delivering the quality and consistency our customers expect.

    What You'll Be Doing

    This is a working leadership role, responsible for both managing kitchen operations and cooking/prepping alongside the team. Responsibilities include:

    Kitchen Management:

    • Oversee daily kitchen operations at both locations


    • Manage food prep, line execution, and shift flow to maintain speed and quality


    • Ensure recipes and portioning are followed precisely


    • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen in compliance with health codes


    • Create prep lists, manage kitchen scheduling, and delegate tasks efficiently


    • Lead and develop a small, tight-knit team of cooks and support staff

    • Communicate with ownership and FOH managers to align on menu, inventory, and service

    Hands-On Cooking:

    • Prep, cook, and plate menu items as needed, especially during peak hours


    • Set the pace on the line and lead by example


    • Troubleshoot equipment, rushes, or supply issues on the fly


    Inventory & Ordering:

    • Monitor inventory, maintain par levels, and reduce food waste


    • Place and receive food and supply orders with vendors


    • Track cost of goods and support cost control initiatives


    Why You'll Love Working Here

    • Competitive salary based on experience


    • Leadership role without corporate red tape


    • Free staff meals + employee discount on food & drinks


    • Room for growth as we expand our brand


    • Autonomy and respect your input will shape the kitchen




Requirements

  • What We're Looking For

    • 3+ years experience as a lead line cook, sous chef, or kitchen manager


    • Solid cooking fundamentals and the ability to execute a fast-casual menu at high volume


    • Experience with smoked meats, griddle, fryers, ovens, and kitchen organization


    • Natural leadership; able to coach, correct, and motivate a team respectfully


    • Highly reliable, clean, and detail-oriented


    • Strong communication and a willingness to adapt as the business grows


    • Valid drivers license and ability to travel between Gainesville and Bristow


    • Must be able to lift 50 lbs and work on your feet in a fast-paced environment





About the Company

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CraftWorx Taproom