1 August 2026
Kitchen Lead: First Cook
Hiring for a dependable, passionate cook to join our team at Southport General Store, where nourishment meets community. Located on Southport Island, Maine. You will be a big part of a small kitchen crew.
Job Description: Responsibilities would include, but not limited to: working alongside our chef and performing daily kitchen prep, pizza and sandwich making, prepared foods production, and cleaning. We are a small winter crew that triples in the summer to meet demands. This includes: teaching, guiding, and working alongside culinary externs, J1 Visa students, and hourly employees. The ideal candidate is a self-starter who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys cooking, and loves working as part of a team. At the General Store, we wear many hats, and no two days are the same. Whether you’re crafting pizzas and sandwiches on the line, preparing specials, or restocking items, there’s always something to keep you engaged. We value a positive, can-do attitude and are eager to support individuals who are ready to jump in and learn. If you're looking for a dynamic role where you can contribute to a vibrant local food scene, work hard, have fun, and leave each day with a sense of accomplishment, we'd love to meet you!
Job Responsibilities:
- Assist in daily specials and cafe kitchen prep, including slicing deli meats, cheeses, and vegetables; assembling sandwiches and salads; cooking pizzas, prep of bulk recipe items, and daily specials. Ie: seasonal salads and soups, comfort meals, fresh local menu items, BBQ and smoked meats, breakfasts, catered dinners
- Execute catering orders and prepare meals for to-go with direction, following recipes and portioning guidelines to ensure consistency in taste and presentation.
- Assist customers with food orders, both at the counter and over the phone, and provide genuine customer service and hospitality while answering questions about menu items, ingredient use, cooking instructions, or which way to the beach!?- etc.
- Help maintain stock and inventory for store products, including grocery, beverage cooler, beer, and wine, ensuring proper storage and organization as needed.
- Work closely with the kitchen and front-of-house teams to ensure efficient, timely order completion and smooth service.
- Assist in closing the store, including putting away stock, cleaning, and sanitizing kitchen equipment and work surfaces to maintain a safe, organized kitchen.
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness and food safety, including ensuring all areas, tools, and kitchen equipment are in top condition.
- Foster a positive, community-focused atmosphere while collaborating with fellow team members.
Desired Skills & Qualifications:
- Ability to safely multitask in a fast-paced environment
- Strong communication skills and ability to take direction, as well as the ability to self-direct and direct others when necessary.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills.
- Punctual, reliable, and able to work independently with attention to detail.
- Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and perform physical tasks like bending, lifting, and standing for extended periods.
- Comfortable with mechanical kitchen equipment, sharp knives, and cleaning supplies.
- Team player with a positive attitude and a willingness to contribute to a fun, community-driven work environment.
Additional Requirements:
- Must be willing to work 5 days a week with weekend availability.
- Must be adaptable to change, kind and respectful of our co-workers, customers, community, and environment
Benefits Include:
- Competitive pay, ranging from $18-$25 per hour, based on experience, with relocation housing package option available.
- Access to a comprehensive health insurance plan for full-time employees ,paid time off plan, and designated paid holidays
- Flexible time off to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance.
- Paid training and employee uniforms to support your growth and success with us.
- Employee discount at our General Store and Gift Barn
- An incredible team and community waiting to champion your talents
Southport General Store provides equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any type without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.
If you love food, enjoy a dynamic, team-oriented environment, and want to contribute to a community-centered business, apply today! We look forward to having you as part of our team.
Email Resume and introduction letter: kitchen@southportgeneralstore
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Pay: $18.00 - $25.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Employee discount
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Paid training
Work Location: In person
