Kitchen Lead Line Cook

Location: Sherman Oaks, CA Compensation: $25–$30/hour DOE Employment Type: Full-time, hourly (estimated 40 hours/week)

About the Opportunity

A high-volume sports bar and brewhouse in Sherman Oaks is hiring a Kitchen Lead. The concept pairs craft beer and craft cocktails with an elevated game-day menu and a signature weekend brunch, drawing energetic crowds for NBA Playoffs, soccer watch parties, UFC nights, and major tentpole events. We're looking for a Kitchen Lead who thrives on volume, takes pride in plate quality, and runs a tight, clean line.

Position Summary

The Kitchen Lead is the on-shift authority in the back of house, responsible for executing service, leading line cooks, holding the line on quality, and keeping the kitchen safe, clean, and compliant. This role partners closely with the Executive Chef and/or Kitchen Manager to ensure every plate — from wings and flatbreads to brunch hashes and chops — leaves the pass at standard.

Key Responsibilities

Service Execution

• Lead the line during peak service: brunch rushes, happy hour, game days, and late-night
• Expedite tickets, call out orders, and coordinate timing across stations
• Cook on any station as needed (grill, sauté, fry, pantry, brunch)
• Maintain plate consistency and presentation against recipe cards and build sheets

Team Leadership

• Direct, train, and motivate line cooks and prep cooks during shifts
• Conduct pre-shift line checks: prep levels, temps, station setup, mise en place
• Communicate clearly with FOH managers and servers on timing, 86s, and specials
• Step in on any station when down a body and keep service moving

Quality, Safety & Compliance

• Enforce HACCP, food safety, and LA County Health Department standards
• Verify cooler/freezer temps, labeling, dating, and FIFO rotation
• Keep the line, walk-ins, dish area, and prep stations clean and organized
• Address equipment issues immediately; escalate repairs as needed

Inventory & Cost Control

• Monitor prep par levels and waste; flag shortages before service
• Assist with receiving, putting away orders, and rotating stock
• Support the Kitchen Manager with inventory counts and cost-control initiatives

What We're Looking For

• 2+ years in a lead, sous, or senior line cook role in a high-volume, full-service kitchen
• Comfortable working all stations — grill, sauté, fry, and brunch
• Calm, decisive, and vocal on the line; leads by example, not by yelling
• Strong knife skills, recipe adherence, and plating standards
• ServSafe or California Food Handler Card (or able to obtain before first shift)
• Available nights, weekends, holidays, and major sporting events
• Able to stand for 8–10 hour shifts and lift up to 50 lbs
• Bilingual English/Spanish required

What We Offer

• $25–$30/hour DOE
• Shift meal and team discounts
• Real growth path in a fast-growing, owner-operated concept
• Energetic crew, busy room, and a kitchen that takes its food seriously

How to Apply

Submit your resume through the job posting.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected characteristic.