The Principal Taquero/a is a key leader within the Back‑of‑House team, responsible for overseeing the preparation and execution of Tacombi menu items with consistency, care, and pride. This role focuses on leading culinary operations on the line, ensuring food quality and standards, and maintaining a clean and safe work environment. The Principal Taquero/a reports to the Managing Partner and supports and guides the kitchen team in delivering high‑quality food and great guest experiences.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary Execution
Oversee and execute menu items according to Tacombi recipes and standards.
Lead assigned stations during prep and service with accuracy and efficiency.
Ensure food quality, taste, and presentation meet expectations at all times.
Support menu consistency by coaching and guiding taqueros on proper techniques and execution.
Food Safety & Cleanliness
Uphold and enforce all food safety, sanitation, and hygiene standards.
Ensure all workstations remain clean and organized before, during, and after service.
Oversee proper handling, storage, labeling, and rotation of ingredients according to guidelines.
Teamwork & Kitchen Leadership
Lead and support the BOH team to ensure smooth service flow.
Communicate clearly and proactively with the Managing Partner and team members during service.
Train, coach, and support taqueros, stepping in as needed to maintain service standards.
Operational Support
Oversee prep tasks, restocking, and station setup/breakdown.
Ensure proper use and care of kitchen tools, equipment, and smallwares.
Help enforce all BOH systems, processes, and daily checklists.
Assist with inventory awareness and shift readiness.
Skills & Qualifications
Previous kitchen experience required; leadership or supervisory experience preferred.
Strong ability to execute and teach recipes, standards, and procedures consistently.
Solid understanding of food safety and kitchen cleanliness requirements.
Strong attention to detail, organization, and sense of urgency during service.
Ability to lead and motivate a fast‑paced, team‑oriented kitchen environment.
Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.
Physical Expectations
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during shifts.
Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs regularly and occasionally up to 50 lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Ability to bend, stoop, and reach overhead as needed for kitchen operations.
Comfortable working in environments with heat, humidity, cold storage, and exposure to common allergens with or without reasonable accommodation.
Adequate vision, hearing, and manual dexterity to handle food, equipment, and kitchen tools, with or without reasonable accommodation.
Tacombi is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment where all individuals have equal opportunities. We value talent, skills, and potential, and strive to create an atmosphere that promotes diversity and equality.
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