In Citrus Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Position Summary

Citrus Breakfast & Lunch is seeking an experienced, hands-on Kitchen Manager to lead daily back-of-house operations and ensure exceptional food quality, efficiency, cleanliness, and team performance. This role is responsible for overseeing all kitchen functions, supporting staff development, maintaining food safety standards, managing inventory and costs, and ensuring a smooth guest experience through consistent execution.

The ideal candidate is a strong leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, leads by example, and takes pride in building a positive, high-performing kitchen culture.

• Arrive on time and conduct a full kitchen walkthrough.
• Inspect cleanliness, organization, and equipment functionality.
• Verify compliance with food safety standards, including proper storage, labeling, and temperature controls.
• Review inventory levels and daily prep requirements.
• Ensure all stations are stocked, organized, and service-ready.
• Confirm staff attendance and adjust assignments as necessary.
• Lead or assist with pre-shift meetings, including menu updates, specials, operational priorities, and daily goals.

• Oversee all kitchen operations to ensure efficient workflow and execution.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and portion control.
• Monitor ticket times and ensure timely, accurate food delivery.
• Support kitchen staff during peak periods and assist with production as needed.
• Enforce sanitation, safety, and cleanliness standards throughout service.
• Communicate effectively with front-of-house staff and management to ensure seamless operations.
• Quickly identify and resolve operational issues related to staffing, food quality, equipment, or service.

• Supervise, coach, and support kitchen team members throughout each shift.
• Provide ongoing feedback, training, and performance guidance.
• Foster a positive, respectful, and accountable work environment.
• Ensure team members understand and follow established procedures and expectations.
• Lead by example through professionalism, reliability, and strong work ethic.

• Monitor product usage and minimize waste.
• Track inventory levels and communicate purchasing needs.
• Ensure proper portion control to maintain food cost targets.
• Verify proper food storage, labeling, and rotation using FIFO (First In, First Out) practices.
• Assist with inventory counts and cost-control initiatives as needed.

• Ensure all stations are properly cleaned, organized, and closed.
• Confirm all food is stored safely and labeled correctly.
• Complete end-of-day inventory checks when required.
• Review waste, shortages, equipment concerns, and operational issues from the shift.
• Communicate relevant updates, reports, and concerns to upper management.
• Secure the kitchen and ensure all closing procedures are completed.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience in a Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef, Lead Cook, or similar leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.
• Proven ability to lead and motivate a kitchen team in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Experience with inventory management, food cost control, and labor management.
• Ability to remain calm and effective under pressure.
• Flexible availability, including weekends and holidays as needed.

Performance Expectations:

• Consistently maintain high standards of food quality and execution.
• Ensure full compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations.
• Keep labor and food costs within established targets.
• Foster teamwork, accountability, efficiency, and a positive culture.
• Deliver operational excellence while providing leadership and support to the kitchen team.

What We Offer:

• Medical, Dental, 401K
• Employee Discount
• Profit Sharing

At Citrus Breakfast & Lunch, we believe great food starts with a great team. We're looking for a Kitchen Manager who is passionate about hospitality, leadership, and creating exceptional guest experiences every day.

Citrus Breakfast and Lunch is now employee owned! We are a World Class breakfast and lunch bistro in the Coastal Virginia Region. At Citrus every Breakfast item is made from scratch. From the Citrus Pancake batter to our original Citrus glaze. From our renowned sweet potato biscuits to our perfect hollandaise sauce.