Kitchen Manager - Makers Union

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Kitchen Manager to lead our back-of-house operations, uphold our standards of quality and consistency, and foster a positive, team-centered kitchen culture. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who values tradition, takes pride in Southern cuisine, and is committed to excellence in food preparation, staff development, and day-to-day kitchen operations.

• Ensure smooth kitchen operations and the consistent delivery of high-quality dishes.
• Lead, mentor, and develop a diverse team of kitchen staff, fostering a positive work environment.
• Maintain food quality standards and adherence to recipes, consistently meeting or exceeding guest expectations.
• Manage kitchen budgets, control costs, and optimize profitability while upholding culinary excellence.
• Enforce compliance with health and safety regulations, as well as kitchen policies and procedures.
• Requires 50–55 hours per week, including evenings and weekends as business needs dictate.

• Proven experience as a Kitchen Manager in a fast casual or full service restaurant.
• Exceptional leadership skills and the ability to motivate and guide a culinary team.
• Strong financial acumen and experience with budget management.
• Excellent culinary skills and a passion for culinary innovation.
• Knowledge of health and safety regulations.
• Clear verbal communication skills and ability to interact with guests in a busy environment.
• Ability to remain calm and composed while multitasking in a fast-paced setting.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during long shifts.
• Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, and twisting.
• Ability to lift, carry, and move items weighing up to 50 pounds.
• Manual dexterity to handle knives, cookware, and kitchen equipment safely.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure kitchen environment.
• Tolerance for exposure to heat, steam, noise, and open flames.
• Ability to navigate tight kitchen spaces and multitask efficiently.
• Visual and sensory acuity to inspect food quality, presentation, and safety.
• Flexibility to work early mornings, late nights, weekends, and holidays as required

Competitive Benefits:

• Health/Dental/Vision coverage
• Paid Time Off
• 401(k) with company match
• Short and Long-Term Disability
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Employee Referral Program
• Pet Insurance
• Discounts: Hotels, Travel, Tickets, Restaurants
• Eligibility for discounted meal plan at HBCU client locations

Who We Are:

Makers Union was created with inclusiveness at its core, reimagining the modern pub experience. It features craveable, locally sourced food and drinks from regional breweries, distilleries, roasters, and wineries. The fun and approachable menu blends classic favorites with globally inspired dishes that reflect the local diversity of the area. Designed for versatility, Makers Union is a welcoming space for everything from watching a game or rolling solo to socializing with friends or dining with family.

Thompson Hospitality is of the largest restaurants, food service, and facilities management companies in the country. We are highly built upon our values, do the right thing, do the best you can, and treat others how you want to be treated, which are shaped by more than 33 years of relationships with our clients, guests, and communities.  We offer competitive benefits, see our website for more. https://www.thompsonhospitality.com/

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity. All employment decisions are made based on qualifications, merit, and business needs. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, or any other protected status under applicable federal, state, or local laws.