Lead Cook/Kitchen Manager

CraftWorx Taproom
  • Gainesville, Virginia
    30+ days ago

    Job Description

    • Are you a passionate cook with leadership chops and a love for great food? Do you take pride in running a clean, efficient kitchen and still enjoy jumping on the line to get things done?

      CraftWorx is looking for a skilled, motivated Kitchen Manager / Head Cook to lead kitchen operations across our two locations. We're not looking for clipboard chefs; this role is both strategic and hands-on. You'll help steer the ship and roll up your sleeves when needed.

      About Us

      CraftWorx Taproom (Gainesville) is a 70-tap self-pour beer and cocktail hall with elevated casual fare, live music, and a lively vibe.
      CraftWorx BBQ & Brews (Bristow) is our upcoming KC style BBQ (with beer) concept home to house-smoked brisket, pulled pork, and fan-favorite comfort food

      We're locally owned, team-oriented, and growing and we need a strong kitchen leader to help us continue delivering the quality and consistency our customers expect.

      What You'll Be Doing

      This is a working leadership role, responsible for both managing kitchen operations and cooking/prepping alongside the team. Responsibilities include:

      Kitchen Management:

      • Oversee daily kitchen operations at both locations


      • Manage food prep, line execution, and shift flow to maintain speed and quality


      • Ensure recipes and portioning are followed precisely


      • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen in compliance with health codes


      • Create prep lists, manage kitchen scheduling, and delegate tasks efficiently


      • Lead and develop a small, tight-knit team of cooks and support staff

      • Communicate with ownership and FOH managers to align on menu, inventory, and service

      Hands-On Cooking:

      • Prep, cook, and plate menu items as needed, especially during peak hours


      • Set the pace on the line and lead by example


      • Troubleshoot equipment, rushes, or supply issues on the fly


      Inventory & Ordering:

      • Monitor inventory, maintain par levels, and reduce food waste


      • Place and receive food and supply orders with vendors


      • Track cost of goods and support cost control initiatives


      Why You'll Love Working Here

      • Competitive salary based on experience


      • Leadership role without corporate red tape


      • Free staff meals + employee discount on food & drinks


      • Room for growth as we expand our brand


      • Autonomy and respect your input will shape the kitchen




    Requirements

    • What We're Looking For

      • 3+ years experience as a lead line cook, sous chef, or kitchen manager


      • Solid cooking fundamentals and the ability to execute a fast-casual menu at high volume


      • Experience with smoked meats, griddle, fryers, ovens, and kitchen organization


      • Natural leadership; able to coach, correct, and motivate a team respectfully


      • Highly reliable, clean, and detail-oriented


      • Strong communication and a willingness to adapt as the business grows


      • Valid drivers license and ability to travel between Gainesville and Bristow


      • Must be able to lift 50 lbs and work on your feet in a fast-paced environment





    Numbers & Facts

    LocationGainesville, Virginia
    Websitewww.craftworxtaproom.com

    Skills

    • Business Growthunmatched
    • Coachingunmatched
    • Communication Skillsunmatched
    • Cook Dishesunmatched
    • Detail Orientedunmatched
    • Driver's Licenseunmatched
    • Food Preparationunmatched
    • Inventory Managementunmatched
    • Leadershipunmatched
    • Lift/Move 50 Poundsunmatched
    • Operationsunmatched
    • Operations Managementunmatched
    • Organizational Skillsunmatched
    • Quality Managementunmatched
    • Schedule Developmentunmatched
    • Team Playerunmatched
    • Willing to Travelunmatched

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