Kitchen Manager

Kitchen Manager Brass Bird Coffee & Kitchen – Santa Barbara, CA Full-Time | $28–$32 per hour, depending on experience Brass Bird Coffee & Kitchen is looking for an experienced, organized, and hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead our back-of-house operations. We are a busy café and kitchen serving thoughtfully prepared breakfast, lunch, baked goods, seasonal specials, and weekend brunch. The ideal candidate is a strong kitchen leader who enjoys creating structure, developing a team, maintaining high standards, and collaborating on seasonal menu ideas. This is a working manager position that combines administrative responsibilities with active participation in daily kitchen production and service. Key Responsibilities Oversee daily kitchen operations, prep production, and serviceOrder food, ingredients, disposables, and other kitchen productsMaintain appropriate inventory levels while controlling waste and food costsReceive and inspect deliveries for quality, accuracy, and proper storageDevelop and manage weekly prep lists and production schedulesEnsure all recipes, portion standards, plating guidelines, and quality expectations are consistently followedTrain and coach kitchen employees on recipes, procedures, food safety, and performance standardsPrepare and execute rotating soups, seasonal specials, and menu featuresWork directly with ownership to develop and test menu ideas and specialsCreate the weekly kitchen schedule based on staffing and business needsMonitor attendance, punctuality, productivity, and employee performanceEnsure employees receive required meal and rest breaks and that break procedures are properly documentedMaintain compliance with food-safety, sanitation, labeling, temperature-control, and workplace requirementsMaintain an organized, clean, safe, and fully stocked kitchenCommunicate equipment, staffing, purchasing, and operational concerns to ownershipParticipate in cooking, prep, and service as needed Qualifications At least 2 years of kitchen leadership experience preferredStrong working knowledge of kitchen production, prep systems, inventory, ordering, and food-cost controlExperience creating schedules and directing kitchen staffAbility to follow, teach, and consistently enforce standardized recipesKnowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper food-storage practicesStrong organizational, communication, and problem-solving skillsDependable, professional, and able to hold employees accountableComfortable working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environmentAvailability to work early mornings, weekends, and holidays as requiredCurrent California Food Protection Manager Certification, or ability to obtain oneAbility to stand for extended periods and safely lift up to 50 pounds What We Offer Competitive pay of $28–$32 per hour, depending on experienceFull-time scheduleOvertime pay in accordance with California lawHealth, dental, and vision insurance, with an employer contribution for eligible employees401(k) program for eligible employeesPaid sick leaveEmployee mealsPaid VacationOpportunity to contribute creatively to a growing local restaurant company We are looking for someone who takes pride in running an organized kitchen, develops the people around them, and cares deeply about consistency and food quality. To apply, please submit your résumé along with a brief note describing your kitchen leadership experience and availability.