Old Tucson Kitchen Lead

Division/Department: Food & Beverage 

Job Title: Kitchen Lead     

Reports To: Food & Beverage Supervisor

Type of Position: Non-Exempt/Hourly

Employee Classification: Seasonal 

Compensation: $17.00/hr. - $20.00/hr.

Location: Tucson, AZ

Job Summary:

The Kitchen Shift Lead oversees kitchen operations during assigned shifts, ensuring that food preparation, cleanliness, and team coordination meet the highest standards. This role supports kitchen leadership by supervising staff, managing workflow, maintaining food safety protocols, and ensuring that dishes are prepared efficiently and to quality specifications. The ideal candidate is organized, dependable, and experienced in a high-volume kitchen setting.

Essential Roles and Responsibilities:

• Supervise and guide kitchen staff during assigned shifts to ensure smooth workflow.
• Delegate tasks and monitor performance to maintain efficiency and consistency.
• Serve as the point of contact between kitchen staff and management during shifts.
• Provide hands-on training and support to new and existing staff.
• Oversee food preparation and presentation to ensure quality, portion control, and timeliness.
• Ensure all recipes, cooking methods, and plating guidelines are followed.
• Monitor station setup and breakdown, ensuring readiness at the beginning and cleanliness at the end of each shift.
• Enforce food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards in compliance with health regulations.
• Conduct regular checks on food storage, labeling, and temperature controls.
• Immediately address and report any food safety or operational hazards.
• Monitor stock levels and communicate needs to the Food & Beverage Supervisor.
• Assist with receiving and inspecting deliveries to ensure quality and accuracy.
• Minimize waste through proper inventory rotation and portion control
• Coordinate with front-of-house staff to ensure timely and accurate order fulfillment.
• Handle shift-related issues such as delays, equipment malfunctions, or staff absences promptly.
• Maintain open, respectful communication within the team and foster a positive work environment.

Education, Skill & Work Experience Requirements

• High school diploma or equivalent required; additional culinary training or certification is a plus.
• At least 2 years of professional experience in a commercial kitchen, with supervisory or leadership experience preferred.
• Strong working knowledge of food preparation procedures, kitchen safety protocols, and equipment operation.
• Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with effective communication and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to lead and support a team while maintaining efficiency and high-quality food standards under pressure.

Work Environment: 

• Work is performed in a busy, high-energy kitchen environment with frequent exposure to hot surfaces, open flames, and sharp tools.
• Requires extended periods of standing, walking, bending, and lifting throughout shifts.
• Exposure to varying temperatures, including warm kitchen conditions and occasional refrigerated storage areas.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays, depending on operational needs (Required).
• Collaborative, team-oriented setting focused on maintaining a clean, safe, and productive work environment.

Salary : $17 - $20