Kitchen Team Lead

Job Type: Full time

Location: Pasadena

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WHO WE ARE //

In 2013, native Texan Briana Valdez opened HomeState, an ode to Texas cuisine in East Hollywood with the mission of evoking community and creating a home for everyone, no matter where they are from. HomeState aims to create a dining experience that goes beyond the food. The way our guests feel at HomeState is the true mission of our efforts. HomeState exists for everyone. The price point, casual vibe and portability of the menu allows the restaurant to flex to the needs of many. HomeState is a recipient of the KRCW’s “Best Tortilla in Southern California” award.

No matter where you’re from, HomeState is your home away from home. A space where every person feels welcomed and valued. We serve hospitality first and tacos second.

And we’re hiring nice people! HomeState is currently hiring for the position of:  Kitchen Team Lead

THE GIG //

As a member of the kitchen team you provide the guests with an exceptional experience by implementing HomeState’s standards of service, product quality and cleanliness. Every member of our team strives to create an environment where everyone is treated with respect and dignity.

THE OFFER //

By joining HomeState, you’re becoming a leader of a dynamic team. In addition to a nurturing environment, in which you’ll be able to grow as we grow, HomeState offers competitive hourly rate, health insurance, and delicious family meal!

Base rate is currently projected to be $17.50 per hour, 

with tip share it is reasonable to expect to earn $22-$26 per hour. 

HomeState embraces diversity and does not discriminate in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy and gender identity), national origin, political affiliation, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, genetic information, age, membership in an employee organization, retaliation, parental status, military service, or other non-merit factor. We will consider for employment all qualified Applicants, including those with Criminal Histories, in a manner consistent with the requirements of applicable state and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance.

Please note that job duties are subject to change at the company’s discretion.

Responsibilities

PRIMARY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY:

- Ensure the implementation of a correct “food production schedule” for each department and for each crew to maximize effectiveness and efficiency of employees’ working schedule.
- Work with KM to ensure that each vendor order is placed for the next day based on the par levels.
- Ensure proper receiving, storage, and rotation of products to comply with set standards.
- Minimize waste and maximize thorough usage of food through careful ordering, proper and well-organized storage, and use of recipes. Review the “waste/spoilage log” and document as needed.
- Manage the kitchen during an assigned shift and ensure compliance with all standards of best practices.
- Ensure that safety standards and sanitary requirements are met each and every day.
- Spot problems and resolve them quickly and efficiently, maintaining a level head, and delegate kitchen tasks simultaneously.
- Confirm items received are the correct item, weight, temperature, brand and specification as outlined by the leadership team.
- Uphold purchasing and receiving standards to follow protocols involving the handling of PO and invoices.
- Maintain proper staffing levels, minimize overtime, manage shift change breaks, 10 minute and 30 minute breaks taken with applicable within outlined meal break policy.
- Assist in controlling food cost by assisting in training kitchen staff on the proper methods of food preparation and handling, by training kitchen, restaurant and employees on how to handle food items.
- Maintain strict adherence to health department sanitation and food handling guidelines
- Maintain effective communication within the kitchen, be responsive to staff suggestions and concerns and work to resolve problems with the KM and GM.
- Maintain an effective working relationship with management, staff and other departments.
- Complete daily food orders based upon scheduled events and projected levels of business.
- Conduct regular inspections of the entire kitchen/dishwashing areas and coolers and promptly act to correct deficiencies found during inspection.
- Maintaining impeccable personal hygiene as well as high work and safety standards in the workplace is incredibly important for all team members, and the Kitchen Lead is expected to set an example for the Kitchen Team. Ensure that all kitchen employees consistently adhere to the uniform, grooming and appearance standards.
- Ensure sanitation and food safety procedures are being followed, see health department standards and expectations list.
- Ensure proper kitchen equipment maintenance and ensure proper safety and sanitation in the kitchen.
- Generate and maintain a daily journal with End of Day shift notes.
- Work to maximize the productivity of the kitchen staff
- Work closely with other team members to support each other through daily tasks, promote teamwork and a healthy culture.
- Actively collaborate with service team to ensure the best possible guest experience, this includes assistance with packing orders, running food, or other duties as needed.
- Take pride in your work each day to make things a little better than they were yesterday.
- Fully understand and uphold the HomeState culture, embodying our mission, visions and core values.

WEEKLY

- Attend weekly department meetings to ensure all functions will be executed accurately.
- Submit and review invoices from purveyors for accuracy.
- Assist in development and training of the kitchen team.

Experience

- 1-2 years in a kitchen leadership position.

Skills

- Manager Food Safety Certification required.
- Personable and enjoys leading a diverse team.
- Passion for food and hospitality is a plus.

Qualifications

- Availability to work a minimum of five days per week. Extended hours and/or a sixth day may occasionally be required. Weekends, day shifts and evening shifts may be required.
- Ability to stand for long periods of time (6 or more hours per shift)
- Ability to lift 25+ pounds