A Kitchen Manager is one who consistently demonstrates our core values, embraces the Chick-fil-A culture, and has a servant's heart. They have a passion for people and serving others, possess strong character, take initiative, and work with a sense of urgency at all times.
The Kitchen Manager is responsible for supporting restaurant leadership in executing daily operations while developing the leadership skills, operational expertise, and influence necessary to take increasing ownership of kitchen performance and team development. Their primary focus is ensuring food safety, food quality, team development, and efficient kitchen operations while creating a positive and productive work environment. Kitchen Managers lead by example and set the standard for excellence that others will follow.
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Lead and oversee daily kitchen operations.
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Troubleshoot staffing and operational needs during assigned shifts.
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Ensure food is prepared according to company standards for quality, consistency, and presentation.
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Maintain strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and health department requirements.
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Monitor food quality and kitchen performance throughout each shift.
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Ensure proper handling, preparation, and storage of raw chicken and other food products.
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Coach, develop, and hold team members accountable to performance and culture standards.
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Provide ongoing training and development opportunities for kitchen team members.
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Maintain a clean, safe, and organized kitchen environment.
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Oversee kitchen systems and processes to maximize efficiency and productivity.
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Identify opportunities for operational improvement and implement solutions.
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Communicate effectively with fellow leaders and team members to resolve issues and support restaurant goals.
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Assist with scheduling, staffing, inventory management, and waste reduction efforts.
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Lead by example in demonstrating teamwork, professionalism, and a commitment to excellence.
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This is a hands-on management role in a fast-paced restaurant environment.
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You will be actively working in the kitchen and supporting daily operations alongside your team.
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The majority of your time will be spent on the floor coaching, developing, and leading team members.
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You will be responsible for maintaining food safety, quality, and operational excellence standards.
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This role requires a high level of ownership, accountability, and influence.
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You will be expected to lead by example and create a culture of teamwork, urgency, and continuous improvement.
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Success in this role requires balancing people development, food safety, quality, and operational execution.
Leadership Development & Growth
The Kitchen Manager role is designed for leaders who are committed to continuous growth and development. While previous leadership experience is important, success in this role is not determined solely by experience or tenure. Leaders are expected to progressively demonstrate increased competency, ownership, accountability, and influence as they develop within the position.
During the first several months in the role, Kitchen Managers will focus on mastering food safety, food quality, kitchen systems, team development, coaching, and operational execution. As proficiency grows, leaders will be expected to take greater ownership of staffing challenges, team performance, operational improvements, inventory management, and the development of future leaders.
This position includes a structured leadership development process with opportunities for increased responsibility, expanded leadership authority, compensation growth, and future advancement. Progression is based on demonstrated performance, leadership effectiveness, operational results, alignment with our culture and values, and the ability to positively influence and develop others.
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Proven management or leadership experience required.
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Previous kitchen management experience strongly preferred.
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Experience leading and developing teams in a fast-paced environment.
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Strong background in coaching, accountability, performance management, and team development.
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Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and quality standards.
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Comfortable handling and preparing raw chicken according to company procedures.
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Excellent attention to detail and organizational skills.
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Ability to thrive in a high-expectation, fast-paced environment.
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Ability to work in a team environment with shared ownership and responsibility.
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Strong commitment to serving guests and team members.
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Reliable transportation.
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Open availability, including evenings and weekends.
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Ability to lift up to 50 pounds and stand for extended periods.
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ServSafe Certification preferred (or willingness to obtain).
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Promote a safe, organized, and compliant work environment.
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Ensure all food safety, sanitation, and health department standards are consistently met.
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Identify safety concerns and partner with leadership to resolve issues promptly.
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Reinforce safe work habits and proper food handling procedures with all team members.
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Maintain a clean and organized kitchen environment at all times.
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Lead by example in creating a culture of safety, accountability, and excellence.
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A fun and positive work environment where you can positively influence others.
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Competitive pay based on experience.
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Flexible scheduling.
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Closed Sundays.
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Leadership development and growth opportunities.
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Learning directly from experienced Operators and Restaurant Leaders.
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Intentional coaching and development to help you reach your professional goals.
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Scholarship opportunities.
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The opportunity to lead, develop, and invest in others.
The Kitchen Manager plays a critical role in establishing and maintaining the standards that define our restaurant. By protecting food safety, developing team members, maintaining quality, and driving operational excellence, this role helps ensure every guest receives an exceptional experience. The Kitchen Manager sets the tone for the kitchen team and helps create an environment where excellence is not occasional—but habitual.
Work Schedule
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Full-time
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8 hour shifts
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Weekdays, evenings, and weekends as business needs require
Working at a Chick-fil-A® restaurant is more than a job – it’s an opportunity for teamwork and leadership development in a positive, people-focused environment. Most Chick-fil-A restaurants are locally owned and operated by independent, franchised Operators who invest in the future of their Team Members and give back to their communities.
Pay: $22.00 - $30.00 / hour
Benefits:
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Flexible schedule
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Paid time off
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Health insurance
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Dental insurance
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Vision insurance
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Employee discount
Job Type: fulltime, parttime
Schedule:
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8 hour shift
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Weekend availability
Education: No education required
Work location: On-site