What are the responsibilities and job description for the Head Cook/Kitchen Manager position at South Haven Elks Lodge?
The South Haven Elks is a private club that has a full kitchen to serve its members and their guests. We are seeking an experienced, high-energy Head Cook/ Kitchen Manager to lead our small back-of-house team. This pivotal role combines hands-on culinary execution with operational management, ensuring exceptional food quality, efficiency, and compliance in a fast-paced environment. This position works Tuesday - Friday from 4:00pm to 10:00pm and Saturday 2:00pm to 10:00pm. Up to 40 hours available of work. Sundays and Mondays off.
Responsibilities:
- Lead and manage daily kitchen operations, food preparation, and plating consistency.
- Prepare and cook menu items in accordance with established standards.
- Create and update menus in collaboration with Club Manager. Design and execute specials and weekend features.
- Supervise, schedule, and train kitchen staff.
- Manage inventory levels, place weekly food/supply orders, and control food costs.
- Maintain food quality and portion control according to club standards and member preferences.
- Enforce strict food safety, sanitation, and local health code guidelines.
- Coordinate kitchen operations for special events, banquets, and member functions.
- Monitor kitchen workflow and optimize ticket times to ensure efficient guest service.
- Handle customer concerns immediately.
- Establish and enforce daily opening and closing procedures for the kitchen.
- Oversee equipment maintenance and ensure all machinery is operated safely.
- Other tasks may be assigned.
Qualifications:
- Minimum 3-5 years of experience as a Lead Cook, Head Cook, or Kitchen Manager.
- Proven leadership skills with experience supervising and motivating small teams.
- Strong administrative skills including inventory management, ordering, and food cost control.
- ServSafe Manager certification is highly preferred (or willingness to obtain).
- Ability to work scheduled evening shifts (Tuesday – Saturday).
- Knowledge of proper food handling procedures.
- Excellent communication and problem-solving abilities under pressure.
- Ability to stand for long periods and lift up to 40 lbs.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $25.00 - $28.00 per hour
Benefits:
- Paid time off
Shift:
- Evening shift
Experience:
- Head Cook: 3 years (Required)
Shift availability:
- Night Shift (Required)
Ability to Commute:
- South Haven, MI 49090 (Required)
Work Location: In person
Salary : $25 - $28