Kitchen Operations Assistant Jobs in Spokane, WA

Mustard Seed of Spokane is hiring an experienced Senior Kitchen Leader for BOH. $26 to $28 an hour, depending on experience.

The Senior Kitchen Leader is an experienced kitchen professional who plays a key role in supporting daily kitchen operations at Mustard Seed. This position works alongside the kitchen team in all areas of food preparation, cooking, food safety, cleanliness, dishroom operations, inventory management, and product ordering. The Senior Kitchen Leader leads by example, helping create a positive, productive, and efficient kitchen environment while maintaining Mustard Seed's standards for quality, hospitality, safety, and teamwork. They work closely with the General Manager to ensure high standards are upheld in our kitchen.

This is a hands-on position that actively participates in all kitchen functions while serving as a resource and example for fellow team members.

Essential Duties and Responsibilities

Kitchen Operations

• Prepare, cook, and plate menu items according to Mustard Seed recipes, specifications, and quality standards.
• Work all kitchen stations as needed, including line cooking, prep cooking, and support functions.
• Assist in coordinating daily kitchen activities to ensure efficient service and product quality.
• Monitor food quality, presentation, portioning, and consistency throughout each shift.
• Help maintain appropriate production levels to support business needs while minimizing waste.
• Support smooth communication and teamwork between kitchen staff and front-of-house team members.

Food Safety and Sanitation

• Follow and promote all food safety, sanitation, and health department standards.
• Ensure proper food storage, labeling, rotation, and temperature control procedures are followed.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment throughout all kitchen areas.
• Participate in and support daily, weekly, and periodic cleaning tasks.
• Identify and address food safety or sanitation concerns promptly.

Inventory and Ordering

• Completes inventory counts and inventory processes.
• Monitor product levels and communicate supply needs.
• Place orders according to established procedures and approved vendor programs.
• Help maintain proper stock levels while minimizing waste and controlling costs.
• Receive and verify deliveries for accuracy, quality, and proper storage.

Team Support and Development

• Serve as a knowledgeable resource for kitchen team members.
• Demonstrate Mustard Seed standards through daily actions and work performance.
• Assist in training team members on recipes, procedures, food safety practices, and kitchen operations.
• Foster a positive, respectful, and team-oriented work environment.
• Encourage accountability, consistency, and collaboration through example.

Qualifications

• Previous experience in a high-volume full-service restaurant kitchen required.
• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food preparation methods, and kitchen operations.
• Thorough understanding of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Experience with inventory management and product ordering preferred.
• Ability to multitask and remain organized in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to lead through example and support the success of fellow team members.
• Reliable attendance and punctuality.

Dishroom and Facility Support

• Assist with dishroom operations to ensure dishes, cookware, and utensils are cleaned and available as needed.
• Support cleanliness and organization throughout all kitchen, storage, and service areas.
• Help ensure equipment is cleaned, maintained, and used properly.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
• Ability to frequently lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to bend, stoop, reach, twist, and perform repetitive motions.
• Ability to work safely in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Ability to operate standard kitchen equipment safely and effectively.

Success in This Role

Successful Senior Kitchen Leaders consistently demonstrate strong culinary skills, maintain high standards of food quality and safety, support their teammates, contribute to efficient kitchen operations, and help create a positive culture through teamwork, professionalism, and leadership by example.

Pay: $26 to $28 an hour with tips, depending on experience

Benefits:

401(k)

PTO

Health Insurance

All kitchen staff tipped by FOH