Central Kitchen Production Manager

Job Title: Central Kitchen Production Manager

Location: Renton, WA

Pay Range: $32/hr. - $38/hr.

Actual compensation will be determined based on experience, skills, and internal equity.

About Us:

Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya brings the most authentic Japanese ramen experience outside of Japan. We use traditional techniques, including a unique bone-roasting method, to create rich, flavorful broths. Kizuki Ramen’s philosophy is to serve the most traditional, authentic and delicious Japanese ramen that you can possibly have without actually flying to Japan.

Every restaurant is designed to immerse guests in Japanese culture—from open-kitchen layouts to attentive service and thoughtful details that enhance the dining experience. 

With multiple locations across the U.S., our mission is to share the art of Japanese ramen.

Position Overview:

As a Food Production Manager at Kizuki Central Kitchen each day you will be focused on excellence. Our Production Manager supports the Kizuki dining experience to life by supporting our shops in the area with freshly prepared high-quality ingredients to make the highest quality ramen and izakaya that leaves our guest with a positive dining experience.

Responsibilities:

Leadership & Team Development

• Lead from the front by setting high standards for performance, professionalism, and teamwork

• Supervise, coach, and develop Back of House team members, including Cooks, Prep, and Dish staff

• Recruit, interview, onboard, and train new team members

• Cross-train kitchen team members on all stations to support business needs and labor efficiency

• Rally the team during high-volume shifts, resolve conflicts, and maintain a positive work environment

Operations & Food Quality

• Ensure food quality, portioning, and presentation meet company standards

• Enforce standard operating procedures, food safety guidelines, and sanitation practices

• Perform daily quality checks using company-directed checklists

• Maintain a clean, organized, and guest-ready kitchen environment

Inventory & Vendor Management

• Purchase food and supplies to meet daily production needs

• Manage inventory levels to control waste and meet budget targets

• Work with vendors and group purchasing organizations (GPOs), including rebate management and full truckload purchases

• Write and manage product specifications and oversee quality control for internally produced items

Problem Solving & Communication

• Quickly and effectively resolve operational issues, including employee conflicts, vendor errors, and guest concerns

• Communicate clearly with Front of House staff, the General Manager, and Corporate team members

• Maintain required records and complete reports, including web-based reporting on desktop and tablet devices

Work Environment

• This role requires long hours, working around hot cooking equipment, and extended time standing and moving throughout the kitchen

Qualifications

• Minimum 3-5 years of relevant experience in a high-volume kitchen or production environment

• Ability to obtain and maintain a Washington State Food Handlers Card

• ServSafe Certification preferred

• General understanding of soup production, HACCP, and TAAC principles

• Ability to interpret and analyze reports related to food cost, labor, and sanitation

• Proficient in using a PC and Microsoft Office Suite

• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment

Additional Requirements

• Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull up to 50 pounds

• Ability to stand, walk, bend, and work on feet for extended periods (minimum 8 hours per workday)

• Maintain regular and consistent attendance and punctuality, with or without reasonable accommodation

• Flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as business needs require

• Ability to meet store operating policies and standards, including food quality and safety expectations, with or without reasonable accommodation

• Ability to build and maintain positive working relationships with all restaurant personnel

Benefits:

Kizuki Ramen & Izakaya is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and inclusion and consider all applicants without regard to race, religion, color, gender, age, national origin, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, or any other status protected by law.

Salary : $32 - $38