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Kitchen Operations Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

CUT 158 Chophouse

Kitchen Manager

Joliet, IL

$55K - $65K/yr

Manage the day-to-day operations of the kitchen. * Lead, coach, and motivate kitchen staff while fostering a positive team culture. * Jump onto any station during service as needed to support the ...

Paisans Pizzeria

Kitchen Manager

Oak Lawn, IL

$65K/yr

General Manager, Operations Managers, Team Members. Professional Profile: The Kitchen Manager is an individual who is ultimately responsible for the back-of-house success of their restaurant. You ...

Color Hospitality

Kitchen Manager

Chicago, IL

$50K - $66K/yr

Operational Leadership: * Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring seamless service and quality control. * Implement and uphold standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food preparation ...

Color Hospitality

Kitchen Manager

Chicago, IL · On-site

$50K - $66K/yr

Operational Leadership: * Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring seamless service and quality control. * Implement and uphold standard operating procedures (SOPs) for food preparation ...

Zazzo's Pizza

BOH Manager

Westmont, IL

$20/hr

We are currently looking for an experienced and motivated Back of the House Manager to help lead kitchen operations, support staff, and ensure food production runs efficiently in a fast-paced ...

Zazzo's Pizza

BOH Manager

Westmont, IL · On-site

$20/hr

We are currently looking for an experienced and motivated Back of the House Manager to help lead kitchen operations, support staff, and ensure food production runs efficiently in a fast-paced ...

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All JobsKitchen Operations JobsKitchen Operations Manager JobsKitchen Operations Manager Jobs in Chicago, IL

Kitchen Operations Manager information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$36.6K

$81K

$134.9K

How much do kitchen operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jul 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for kitchen operations manager in Chicago, IL is $81,016.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $61,800.00 and $98,400.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is the difference between Kitchen Operations Manager vs Kitchen Supervisor?

AspectKitchen Operations ManagerKitchen Supervisor
CredentialsExperience in management, culinary background often preferredFood safety certifications, experience in kitchen roles
Work EnvironmentOversees entire kitchen operations, manages staff and processesSupervises kitchen staff, ensures daily operations run smoothly
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in restaurants, hotels, catering servicesCommon in similar food service settings, often as frontline leadership
Search & Comparison IntentLooking for managerial roles overseeing kitchen functionsSeeking supervisory roles in kitchen settings

The main difference between a Kitchen Operations Manager and a Kitchen Supervisor lies in scope and responsibilities. The manager oversees overall kitchen operations, staff management, and strategic planning, while the supervisor focuses on daily supervision and task execution. Both roles require relevant food safety certifications and experience, but the manager typically has broader responsibilities and a higher level of oversight.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a Kitchen Operations Manager, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Kitchen Operations Manager, you need expertise in food safety, inventory management, and staff supervision, often supported by culinary education or hospitality management experience. Familiarity with kitchen management software, POS systems, and certifications such as ServSafe are typically required. Strong leadership, effective communication, and problem-solving skills help foster a productive work environment and ensure smooth operations. These competencies are crucial for maintaining high standards of food quality, safety, and team efficiency in a fast-paced kitchen setting.

Is an operations manager a high position?

A Kitchen Operations Manager is typically considered a mid- to high-level management role responsible for overseeing daily kitchen activities, staff, and quality standards. It often requires leadership skills, experience in food service, and the ability to manage budgets and schedules, making it a significant position within a restaurant or food service organization.

How much do kitchen managers earn?

Kitchen managers typically earn a median annual salary of around $50,000 to $70,000, depending on experience, location, and the size of the establishment. They often oversee staff, manage inventory, and ensure food safety standards are met, which can influence compensation levels.

What is a kitchen operations manager?

A kitchen operations manager oversees the daily functions of a commercial kitchen, including staff management, inventory control, food quality, and safety compliance. They coordinate kitchen activities to ensure efficient service and may require knowledge of food safety standards and management skills.

What are some common challenges faced by Kitchen Operations Managers, and how can they be addressed?

Kitchen Operations Managers often face challenges such as maintaining consistent food quality during busy periods, managing diverse kitchen staff, and controlling costs without sacrificing standards. Effective communication and strong organizational skills are crucial for addressing these issues. Implementing clear processes, conducting regular training sessions, and fostering a collaborative environment help ensure smooth operations and a positive team dynamic. Additionally, closely monitoring inventory and using data-driven scheduling can help balance costs and efficiency.

What does a Kitchen Operations Manager do?

A Kitchen Operations Manager oversees the daily operations of a kitchen, ensuring food quality, safety, and efficiency. They are responsible for managing kitchen staff, maintaining inventory, enforcing health and safety regulations, and optimizing workflows. Their role often includes budgeting, ordering supplies, and collaborating with other managers to meet customer expectations. Ultimately, they ensure the kitchen runs smoothly, food is prepared to high standards, and all procedures comply with relevant regulations.

What is the highest paying job in a kitchen?

The highest paying job in a kitchen is typically a Executive Chef or Head Chef, especially in high-end restaurants or hotel kitchens, where salaries can exceed six figures. These roles require extensive culinary experience, management skills, and often certification, overseeing kitchen operations and staff.
What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen Operations jobs in Chicago, IL? The most popular types of Kitchen Operations jobs in Chicago, IL are:
What cities near Chicago, IL are hiring for Kitchen Operations Manager jobs? Cities near Chicago, IL with the most Kitchen Operations Manager job openings:
Kitchen Operations Manager jobs near you
Infographic showing various Kitchen Operations Manager job openings in Chicago, IL as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 75% Full Time, 23% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 98% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $81,016 per year, or $39 per hour.

Kitchen Manager | Fast Casual

NextGen Hospitality Solutions

Downers Grove, IL • On-site

$55K - $60K/yr

Full-time

Posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description

NextGen Hospitality Solutions is searching for a dedicated Kitchen Manager to join our vibrant team in Downers Grove. This full-time, on-site position offers an exciting opportunity to lead kitchen operations at our fast-casual restaurant, ensuring high standards of food quality, service, and safety.

As a Kitchen Manager, you will oversee daily operations, manage kitchen staff, and ensure that our culinary offerings meet our guests' expectations. You will collaborate closely with the front-of-house team to create a seamless dining experience and help drive our restaurant's success through exceptional food and management. We offer a competitive salary range of $55,000 to $60,000 annually, along with opportunities for professional growth and development within the hospitality industry.

Responsibilities
  • Lead and manage kitchen operations to ensure high-quality food preparation and presentation
  • Supervise, train, and evaluate kitchen staff, fostering a positive team environment
  • Maintain inventory control, ordering supplies, and minimizing food waste
  • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations
  • Develop and implement standard recipes and cooking procedures
  • Collaborate with management on menu planning and pricing
  • Monitor food quality and portion sizes, ensuring consistency in every dish
  • Handle customer feedback and concerns regarding food and service
Requirements
  • High school diploma or equivalent; culinary degree is a plus
  • 2+ years of experience in a kitchen management role or similar position
  • Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, food safety, and sanitation practices
  • Excellent leadership and team management abilities
  • Strong organizational and multitasking skills
  • Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
  • Passion for food and commitment to providing exceptional customer service