Job Summary:
The Kitchen Production Lead oversees all kitchen and bakery operations at Lofty Roasting
Works, ensuring the team follows Lofty recipes and culinary standards. This role includes team
leadership, training, inventory control, and food quality oversight. They are expected to lead by
example and maintain a high standard of excellence in food preparation, organization, and team
development.
Key Responsibilities
Team Leadership & People Development
● Lead and motivate the kitchen team with integrity, fostering a positive, inclusive, and
high-performance culture aligned with Lofty’s ethos.
● Collaborate with the Culinary Director to review resumes, interview candidates, and
onboard new team members.
● Train and develop team members in kitchen operations, product knowledge, and guest
service standards.
● Monitor team performance; provide coaching, developmental plans, and disciplinary
actions when necessary.
● Assist Culinary Director with monthly one-on-one meetings to support growth and
address training needs.
● Enforce company policies, including dress code and personal phone usage.
● Meet weekly with the Culinary Director to align on operations, staffing, and goals.
Operations & Execution
● Plan and delegate daily tasks to ensure efficient kitchen operations.
● Manage food costs, labor, and inventory to meet profitability targets.
● Oversee accurate and timely ordering of all food, paper goods, and cleaning supplies
from approved vendors.
● Assist the Culinary Director with quarterly inventory and cost control.
● Maintain a clean, organized kitchen that meets all company standards and health
department requirements.
● Ensure safe food handling practices and up-to-date health and safety certifications.
● Perform closing manager duties and support overall facility needs.
Qualifications
● Minimum 3 years of cafe or kitchen management experience.
● Valid Food Manager certification required.
● Proficient with commercial kitchen equipment (e.g., mixers, slicers, ovens).
● Ability to work 40+ hours/week, including weekends and holidays.
● Experience with Google Drive, intercompany communication platforms, and inventory
management systems.
● Strong organizational, communication, and multi-tasking skills.
● Excellent problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
● Able to stand for long periods and lift up to 65 lbs; frequent bending and use of
arms/hands required.
● Comfortable working with hot equipment, sharp tools, and handling food.
Responsibilities
- Supervise daily production activities, ensuring adherence to production schedules and quality standards.
- Implement and monitor compliance with FDA regulations, HACCP, and CGMP guidelines.
- Train and mentor team members on best practices in food safety, sanitation, and equipment operation.
- Conduct regular inspections of the production area to ensure cleanliness and compliance with safety protocols.
- Collaborate with management to develop strategies for improving efficiency in food production processes.
- Oversee packaging operations to ensure products meet quality specifications before distribution.
- Maintain accurate records of production data, including output levels and equipment performance.
- Assist in troubleshooting mechanical issues and coordinating maintenance activities for production equipment.
Skills
- Strong knowledge of FDA regulations, HACCP, CGMP, and overall food safety practices.
- Experience in food production and processing within a manufacturing environment.
- Familiarity with sanitation protocols specific to the food industry.
- Mechanical knowledge for troubleshooting equipment issues effectively.
- Proficiency in basic math for inventory management and production calculations.
- Experience operating forklifts safely within a food processing plant setting.
- Excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate and manage a diverse team effectively. Join our team as a Production Lead where your expertise will contribute significantly to our commitment to quality in the food industry!
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $23.00 - $25.00 per hour
Expected hours: 40 – 45 per week
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- Dental insurance
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Application Question(s):
- Do you have a minimum of 3 years Kitchen Manager experience? Tell us about your most recent experience as a manager.
Ability to Commute:
- Encinitas, CA 92024 (Required)
Ability to Relocate:
- Encinitas, CA 92024: Relocate before starting work (Required)
Work Location: In person
