Kitchen Manager | Asian QSR | Palo Alto
Job Title: Kitchen Manager
Cuisine: Chinese QSR
Reports to: Corporate Executive Chef
Compensation: $80,000–$95,000 annually + discretionary bonus
Status: Full-time, Exempt
Location: Palo Alto, CA
Position Overview
We are seeking a skilled and motivated Kitchen Manager to lead culinary operations within a high-volume, Chinese QSR restaurant environment. This role is responsible for overseeing daily back-of-house operations while maintaining exceptional food quality, operational efficiency, and team performance.
The ideal candidate blends strong culinary technique with Chinese cuisine and strong business acumen, bringing the ability to manage a fast-paced kitchen without compromising standards. This leader will foster a collaborative, professional kitchen culture while ensuring consistency, food safety, and guest satisfaction.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary Leadership & Execution
- Oversee daily kitchen operations and service execution
- Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and adherence to recipes and standards
- Support development and implementation of seasonal and evolving menus
- Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organization, and kitchen safety
Guest Experience
- Ensure all dishes meet quality expectations and contribute to an exceptional dining experience
- Address and resolve quality concerns promptly and effectively
Team Management
- Hire, train, schedule, and mentor kitchen staff
- Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and professionalism
- Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and performance development
- Ensure appropriate staffing levels based on business volume
Cost & Inventory Control
- Manage kitchen budgets, food cost targets, and purchasing
- Oversee inventory management, portioning standards, and waste reduction
- Monitor ordering systems and maintain accurate stock levels
- Work with vendors to ensure quality, pricing, and consistency
Vendor & Supplier Relations
- Source high-quality ingredients locally and nationally
- Build relationships with specialty purveyors and farmers
- Evaluate new products and suppliers to enhance menu offerings
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner closely with front-of-house and operations teams to ensure smooth service and guest satisfaction
- Participate in meetings, trainings, and operational planning sessions
Innovation & Development
- Stay current on culinary trends and techniques
- Contribute ideas to evolve menu offerings and improve processes
- Balance creativity with operational feasibility and cost management
Qualifications
- Proven experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager in a high-volume restaurant
- Experience with Chinese cuisine and regional techniques strongly preferred
- Strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills
- Knowledge of kitchen operations, budgeting, and cost control
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, guest-focused environment
- Culinary degree or equivalent professional training preferred
- Fluency in English required; additional languages a plus
Requirements
- Valid manager-level Food Safety/ServSafe Certification
- Ability to stand and work for extended periods
- Ability to lift and/or move up to 50 pounds
Work Environment & Physical Requirements
The Kitchen Manager regularly stands, walks, bends, reaches, and performs repetitive motions typical of a professional kitchen environment. Occasional kneeling, crouching, and lifting may be required. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions.
Benefits
· Medical, Dental, Vision
· 401K with company matching
· 2 Weeks PTO
· Employee Discount and Company Growth Opportunities
*Equal Opportunity Employer*
We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants and do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, disability, gender identity, or any other protected category under applicable laws. Qualified applicants with criminal histories will be considered in accordance with local Fair Chance Hiring ordinances. #AA