Kitchen Manager | Houlihan’s – Champaign, IL
This role is about more than running a kitchen. It’s about leading a high-performing back-of-house team, executing consistently at volume, and delivering a food experience that meets Houlihan’s standards every shift.
We’re looking for a Kitchen Manager who can lead people, manage operations, and maintain quality without stepping away from the line.
What You’ll Do
- Lead, coach, and develop back-of-house team members, including line cooks, prep cooks, and dish staff
- Oversee daily kitchen operations including opening/closing procedures and shift execution
- Ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and adherence to recipes and standards
- Manage inventory, ordering, and product usage to control food cost and minimize waste
- Maintain compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations
- Monitor staffing levels, scheduling, and labor performance to meet business needs
- Support the line during peak service and ensure efficient ticket times
- Partner with front-of-house leadership to ensure a seamless guest experience
- Address equipment, maintenance, and operational issues proactively
- Uphold cleanliness, organization, and safety standards across all kitchen areas
What You Bring
- Minimum of 2–3 years of kitchen leadership experience in a high-volume restaurant
- Strong leadership and coaching skills with the ability to hold team members accountable
- Solid understanding of food safety standards (ServSafe preferred)
- Experience managing inventory, ordering, and cost controls
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment
- High attention to detail, organization, and consistency
- Flexible availability including nights, weekends, and peak business periods
What You Get
- Competitive salary and bonus potential
- Health benefits, 401(k), and paid time off for eligible employees
- Opportunities for growth and advancement within the organization
Additional Information
- Pay will be discussed during the hiring process and based on experience and qualifications
- Must be able to stand for extended periods and perform physical job duties
- Reasonable accommodations will be provided as required by law
- Houlihan’s is an equal opportunity employer
Work schedule
- 8 hour shift
- Weekend availability
- Monday to Friday
- Holidays
- Night shift
Benefits
- 401(k)
- Paid time off
- Health insurance
- Referral program
- Employee discount