Location: Winnetka
Reports to: General Manager
Position Summary
As Kitchen Lead, you’ll be the heartbeat of our back-of-house team, ensuring smooth daily operations, high-quality food preparation, and a positive team environment. You’ll lead by example, support your teammates, and help maintain the standards that make Hometown Coffee & Juice a beloved community spot.
Key Responsibilities
Execution & Ownership
- Lead kitchen operations during prep and service, ensuring food is prepared to recipe standards and served promptly.
- Manage ticket flow and station organization to maintain efficiency and consistency.
- Take initiative to solve problems and support the team during peak hours.
Teamwork & Professional Conduct
- Foster a collaborative and respectful kitchen culture.
- Train and mentor new team members, helping them understand our values and standards.
- Communicate clearly and professionally with all team members.
Food Preparation & Safety
- Ensure all food is prepared and presented according to Hometown’s quality standards.
- Follow food safety and sanitation protocols, including FIFO practices and allergen awareness.
- Monitor and maintain kitchen cleanliness and organization.
Customer Focus
- Support the front-of-house team by ensuring timely and consistent food delivery.
- Maintain high standards that contribute to a positive customer experience.
Communication & Collaboration
- Work closely with the prep and smoothie teams to coordinate ingredient needs and service flow.
- Communicate stock levels, special requests, and operational issues to management.
Compliance & Cost Control
- Monitor inventory and assist with ordering and receiving supplies.
- Follow portion control guidelines to reduce waste and manage food costs.
- Ensure proper storage and rotation of ingredients.
Culture
- Learn: Understand and embody Hometown’s culture, values, and customer experience standards.
- Teach: Help onboard and train new team members, sharing knowledge and best practices.
- Live: Demonstrate teamwork, quality, and customer focus in every shift.
What You Need
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods and work in a high-heat environment.
- Comfortable lifting up to 50 pounds.
- Strong knife skills and attention to detail.
Qualifications
- 1–2 years of experience in a kitchen leadership role (or equivalent experience).
- ServSafe certification preferred (can be obtained upon hiring).
- Ability to multitask and lead in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Why You'll Love This Job
- Be part of a supportive, high-energy team.
- Grow your skills and take on leadership opportunities.
- Work in a vibrant café environment where your contributions matter.
- Enjoy perks like food and beverage discounts and opportunities for advancement.
Pay & Benefits
Compensation: $22 -$25 per hour
Hours : 40-48 hours per week
Employment Type: Full-Time or Part-time to Full-time
EEO Statement
Uptown and Hometown Coffee & Juice is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, military/veteran status, genetic orientation, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable laws. We are committed to creating a dynamic work environment that values diversity and inclusion, respect and integrity, customer focus, and innovation.
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