Kitchen Manager (Pizza Kitchen)
Reports to: Culinary Director
Position Type: Salary Full Time
Based In: Cincinnati, OH
Company Overview:
Rhinegeist Brewery is a regional craft brewery based in the historic Over-The-Rhine in downtown Cincinnati, Ohio. We have built a strong and dedicated team of employees that believe in the power of beer to bring people together, create fantastic ideas, and build a community. Our unique group of employee-owners believes that it is our responsibility to make inspiring beverages and cultivate memorable experiences. We strive to find high-quality, creative solutions with a fierce spirit of independence as we grow. Rhinegeist welcomes all people and is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Diverse candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.
Position Summary:
We are seeking a motivated and reliable Leader for our Pizza kitchen team. The ideal candidate has a strong work ethic, attention to detail, and a passion for quality food. This role is the leader of the Pizza team and responsible for preparing pizzas and supporting general kitchen operations while maintaining consistency, cleanliness, and speed of service. We also envision this person taking an active role in the development of the opening menus and recipes.
Essential Functions:
Production & Technical Execution
- Hand-stretch dough, apply toppings with precision, and master oven management.
- Execute all secondary menu items and appetizers to standard during service.
- Lead the daily prep list, ensuring all sauces and ingredients are processed before service.
- Set up and break down stations; ensure all tools and ingredients are organized for maximum speed.
Quality & Operational Oversight
- Ensure every plate meets established recipes, portion sizes, and presentation goals.
- Lead the receiving, labeling, and rotation of all inventory (FIFO) to minimize waste.
- Monitor portion control and maintain a daily waste log for the Director.
- Perform basic troubleshooting and ensure all kitchen equipment is cleaned and maintained daily.
Safety & Sanitation
- Enforce all Health Department standards, including temperature logs and labeling.
- Maintain a clean, hazard-free workspace and ensure the team follows safety protocols.
- Coordinate and execute weekly deep-cleaning schedules for the entire kitchen.
Leadership & Training
- Train incoming staff on specific station techniques, recipes, and kitchen flow.
- Act as the primary communicator on the line to coordinate ticket times and order firing.
- Resolve immediate kitchen bottlenecks and escalate personnel or facility issues to the Culinary Director.
- Serve as the lead recruiter and hiring manager for the Pizza team.
Requirements
- Previous experience in a high volume Pizza kitchen required
- 3-5 years Kitchen management experience
- Experience training kitchen staff is required
- Knowledge of basic cooking techniques and kitchen equipment
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
- Strong attention to detail and consistency
- Reliable, punctual, and team-oriented
- Food handler certification preferred (or willingness to obtain)
- Flexible schedule including nights, weekends, and holidays
- Ability to work during peak service times (Dinner times)
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for 6-8 hours per shift
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
- Ability to travel up and down stairs multiple times during the shift
Please consider applying even if you do not match all the listed qualifications. Additionally, reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions of a position.
Benefits at Rhinegeist
- Health/Dental/Vision Insurance
- Employer Paid Basic Life Insurance
- 17 days of PTO
- Paid Parental Leave
- Employee Paid Short-Term/Long-Term Disability/Additional Life Insurance
- Dependent Care – Flexible Spending Account
- 401k Match Offered
- 8 Company & 2 Personal Holidays
- Employee Assistance Program
- Free Breakroom Snacks
- Beer and Merchandise allowance
