Assistant Kitchen Manager

Job Description: Assistant Kitchen Manager

Location: West Palm Beach / Lantana / Palm Beach County, Florida
Restaurant Type: High-volume waterfront restaurant (casual upscale, seafood-forward, busy tourist & local clientele)
Reports To: Executive Chef / Kitchen Manager
Position Type: Full-time, salaried, with weekend & evening availability required

Job Summary:

The Assistant Kitchen Manager is a key leadership role responsible for supporting the Executive Chef and Kitchen Manager in the daily operations of a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen. This position ensures exceptional food quality, consistency, safety, and efficiency while maintaining strong team morale and cost control. The ideal candidate thrives in a dynamic waterfront environment and is passionate about delivering outstanding culinary experiences in a team-oriented setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Kitchen Operations & Leadership
  • Oversee daily kitchen operations during shifts, including opening/closing procedures and workflow optimization
  • Maintain high standards for food quality, presentation, consistency, and portion control across all stations
  • Monitor and manage kitchen inventory, ordering, target waste reduction and proper rotation
  • Ensure compliance with all health department regulations, food safety standards (ServSafe), and company policies
• Team Management
  • Supervise, train, coach, and motivate line cooks, prep cooks, and dish staff
  • Conduct shift briefings, performance feedback, and disciplinary actions when necessary
  • Foster a positive, collaborative kitchen culture with emphasis on teamwork and professional growth
  • Assist with hiring, onboarding, and ongoing development of kitchen personnel
• Menu & Production
  • Execute and maintain menu items with focus on seafood, fresh local ingredients, and seasonal offerings
  • Support menu development, special events
  • Manage prep lists, production schedules, and mise en place standards
• Financial & Administrative
  • Track and control food, labor
  • Assist with monthly inventory counts and reconciliation
  • Maintain accurate records for equipment maintenance, temperature logs, and sanitation
• Guest & Cross-Department Collaboration
  • Work closely with Front of House management to ensure seamless service and timely ticket execution
  • Address guest concerns related to food quality or allergies promptly and professionally

Qualifications & Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 3–5 years in a high-volume kitchen (200+ covers per shift preferred), with at least 1–2 years in a supervisory or management role
• Education/Certifications: Experience preferred; ServSafe Food Manager certification required (or ability to obtain within 30 days)
• Technical Skills:
  • Strong knowledge of kitchen equipment maintenance and safety
  • Experience with seafood preparation and high-volume cooking highly desirable
• Personal Attributes:
  • Passion for hospitality and delivering exceptional food
  • Strong leadership, communication, and problem-solving skills
  • Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment
  • Positive attitude, reliability, and commitment to high standards
  • Florida food handler permit and valid driver’s license

What We Offer

1. Competitive salary + performance-based bonuses
2. Health, dental, and vision insurance options
3. Paid time off and employee meals
4. Professional development opportunities
5. Dynamic waterfront work environment with a passionate team
6. Opportunity for growth within a multi-venue restaurant group