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Kitchen Operations Manager Jobs (NOW HIRING)

As an Operations Manager you will be responsible for: * Operations excellence and performance * Engaging our team to uphold our Chick-fil-A standards of excellence * Stewarding the training ...

The Kitchen Operations Manager is responsible for leading all back-of-house (BOH) kitchen and stewarding operations, ensuring efficient execution, food safety compliance, and exceptional support of ...

The Kitchen Operations Manager is responsible for leading all back-of-house (BOH) kitchen and stewarding operations, ensuring efficient execution, food safety compliance, and exceptional support of ...

Kitchen Operations Manager- NRG Stadium

Houston, TX · On-site

$65K - $81K/yr

The Kitchen Operations Manager is responsible for leading all back-of-house (BOH) kitchen and stewarding operations, ensuring efficient execution, food safety compliance, and exceptional support of ...

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Kitchen Operations Manager information

See salary details

$35.5K

$78.6K

$131K

How much do kitchen operations manager jobs pay per year?

As of Jun 13, 2026, the average yearly pay for kitchen operations manager in the United States is $78,645.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $60,000.00 and $95,500.00 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.

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 cities are hiring for Kitchen Operations Manager jobs? Cities with the most Kitchen Operations Manager job openings:
What are the most commonly searched types of Kitchen Operations jobs? The most popular types of Kitchen Operations jobs are:
Who are the top companies hiring for Kitchen Operations Manager jobs? The top employers for Kitchen Operations Manager jobs are:
What states have the most Kitchen Operations Manager jobs? States with the most job openings for Kitchen Operations Manager jobs include:
Infographic showing various Kitchen Operations Manager job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 96% Full Time, and 4% Part Time. Highlights an 92% Physical, 2% Hybrid, and 6% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $78,645 per year, or $37.8 per hour.
Kitchen Operations Manager

Kitchen Operations Manager

Chick-fil-A

Costa Mesa, CA

$27 - $30/hr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 25 days ago


Chick-fil-A rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 7,472 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

13th of 103 rated fast food restaurants


Job description

Position Summary
  • This position is a full-time (35-40 hours per week), hourly, non-exempt position.
  • Salary: $27.00 - $30.00, per hour - see below for additional salary & benefits offered for this position
  • This position requires 100% onsite work at 3181 Harbor Blvd, Costa Mesa, CA 92626
  • Must be 18 years of age or older, authorized to work in the U.S., and have the ability to lift and carry up to 60 pounds for brief and short distances.
  • A qualified candidate will have the ability to speak and understand English.
  • A qualified candidate will have a minimum of 3 years of experience in the restaurant industry, and a minimum of 1 year of proven management experience.
  • See a full list of requirements, qualifications & skills below
Responsibilities and Duties

As an Operations Manager, you will join the leadership team that upholds, develops, and implements the winning strategies behind the Chick-fil-A brand. Our leadershipteam works together to lead and develop teams and other leadersthat serve thousands of guests every day with excellence and care. This is a full-time, hourly, non-exempt position. It requires full engagement and effort over a specific area of the business. It reports to and supports the Director of Operations, their goals, and direction for the team. You will lead a thriving culture of Team Members and Shift Leaders, systems, and processes. Leadership experience and competency in these areas are required at a high level of excellence.

As an Operations Manager you will be responsible for:
  • Operations excellence and performance
  • Engaging our team to uphold our Chick-fil-A standards of excellence
  • Stewarding the training, development, and care of team members and shift leaders
  • Personal growth and development - a good leader is a good learner
  • Developing and leading training programs
  • Business analysis and success
  • Team communication and engagement
  • Collaboration with other leaders on projects
  • Assessing and reviewing employee performance and development
  • Obtaining and achieving team engagement behind all companygoals
  • Providing remarkable experiences for our guests that are fast, accurate, and safe
Qualifications and Skills
  • A qualified candidate must be 18 years of age or older and authorized to work in the U.S.
  • A qualified candidate must have the ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds for brief and short distances.
  • A qualified candidate will have the ability to speak and understand English.
  • We also look for candidates who know other languages such as Spanish or American Sign Language and many others.
  • Previous leadership experience is required, preferablyfroma high speed, quick service restaurantenvironment (3 or more years is highly recommended)
  • Prior business successes and knowledge of your industry business acumen should be demonstrated in your cover letter and throughout the interview process. (Make sure to include a cover letter along with your resume when submitting your application)
  • Open availability between Monday-Saturdayand the ability to work at least 38hours per week is expected for applicants wishing to be considered.
  • All leadership positions are expected to maintain open availability between Thursday-Saturday
  • You will receive additional on the job training and development throughout your career with Chick-fil-A Harbor Blvd.

Operations Managerpositions will be expected to regularly work six or eight hour shifts, at various times within the various day parts of: morning (5:30am-2pm), afternoon (11am-7:30pm), or evening (3:30pm-12am), depending on the needs of the business and store performance goals.

A prime candidate will have availability during all of these day part times on a regular daily basis. A prime candidate will also have complete open weekend availability on Friday and Saturday.

As an Operations Manager you will need to focus on the following areas in your daily performance:1. Culture
  • Carry the Culture: As a key leader, you are responsible for the culture. Our culture is our stated Purpose, Vision, Mission, and Core Values. Your job is to lead in a way that represents this culture, and aligns your team to it. You are the thermostat, not the thermometer. You set the temperature. Areas of focus should be our Mission: Excellence everyday and Care for everyone, and our Core Values: Excellence, Stewardship, Hardworking, Joy, and Selflessness.
  • CFA Standards: You will work with the Operations Director & Shift Leaders to ensure all team members are held to the Chick-fil-A Harbor Blvd standards as stated in the employee handbook, our training material, and other policies and procedures within the business. You must personally represent these standards and hold others accountable to them at all times. Excellence is the goal!
  • Unity: You will collaborate with the Operations Director, other Managers, and Shift Leaders to create a cohesive and positive experience for the team. All leaders need to speak with one unified voice. You are expected to be a leader with positive, encouraging communication within the leadership team. You must quickly address any negative communication by directing it towards a resolution with the people involved. You are not an individual leader. You are part of a unified leadership team that showcases the culture of Harbor Blvd.
2. Growth
  • You are expected to continually grow yourself and your team at the same time. Both are required as a key leader and vital to the health of the business.
  • Grow Self: There are many ways to do this (books, podcasts, training, mentors, webinars, etc). Partner with your Director to help guide you in the right areas. As a leader you are directly stewarding the lives of many people. That is a great responsibility. Take it seriously. You should be intentional and consistent with your growth. Your team needs you to be a great leader and being a great leader takes a lot of work.
  • Grow a Team: It is your responsibility to create opportunities for others to grow in their own leadership and skills. Coaching, feedback, teaching, and accountability are done throughout the day with the purpose of growing Team Members into the best they can be. That is excellence! This should be done because you care about them personally and want them to be their best everyday.
  • Performance Reviews: You will work with the Operations Director to give performance reviews to Shift Leaders. This is a key development tool for you to use 2times a year, to set specific goals and give beneficial feedback. This tool should be taken seriously and given priority in your efforts.
3. Operational Excellence
  • Fast service: You are responsible for the timeliness and efficiency of the drive thru. We strive to serve guests in 3 minutes or less. You are also responsible for quick and rememberable experiences. There are a lot of things that need to happen in concert to achieve this goal. It is your job to lead your team to make this a reality in all day parts.
  • Cleanliness: We steward our restaurant and equipment. Its your job to keep these things clean and in proper working order at all times. The drive thru is the first area our guests see and it will speak about the rest of restaurant and its leadership. Keep it clean!
  • Order Accuracy: You are responsible for ensuring all orders being taken are 100% accurate.
  • Training: You will coordinate with the Operations Team and Training Team to execute all training in the your area of the business. It is vital that we equip our team for success. Training happens officially through many tests and processes, but it should also happen throughout the day as part of a culture that strives for excellence. You set that culture. Train your team continually!
4. Metrics
  • Drive Thru Comparison: Top 5 in Orange County
  • Sales: > 20% compared to LY
  • Labor Costs: > $87Productivity
  • Food Safety: < 2on the audit
  • Safety: QIV from Deloitte: > 95%
  • CEM's: You need to know CEM scores and trends and how to improve them.
  • Overall Satisfaction: >76%
  • Fast service: >73%
  • Attentive and Courteous: >79%
  • Order Accuracy: >96%
  • Cleanliness Combined: >76%
5. Weekly Tasks
  • 75% Operations and upholding Chick-fil-A Standards
  • 10% Training Team
  • 5% Quarterly/Weekly Summary
  • 5% Administrative Projects
  • 5% Evaluation of Business Strategies
Salary and Benefits$27.00 - $30.00, per hour

As an Operations Manager you will also enjoy some of these great company benefits:

  • 40 hours of sick leave per year. 1
  • 1 Free meal for each work shift. 2
  • 50% discount on all regular menu items for yourself and your guests when you dine at our location. 2
  • Off on Sundays - We are closed on Sundays so you can have a day off to spend with family and friends.
  • College Scholarship Opportunities - At Chick-fil-A, we believe everyone deserves an education. We offer Leadership Scholarships to eligible employees who qualify.
  • Free counseling services are available for all employees.
  • Optional $10/mo telemedicine health plans are offered for all employees (part-time and full-time).2
  • Affordable Health Care, Vision and Dental coverage. 3
  • 401 (k) program with strong employer matching and annual contributions. 4
Starting your Career with Chick-fil-A Harbor Blvd

A job at Chick-fil-A Harbor Blvd is more than just a job. It is a career focused platform that's dedicated to your personal growth and development. It's a career that strives for excellence every day and care for everyone.

We are cultivating an authentic culture of care by investing in every team member's personal development and creating an environment where...

  • You have clear opportunities to grow
  • You are empowered to become a positive influential leader
  • Communication is healthy and effective
  • We embrace authentic support, restoration, and optimism

You can learn more about our company culture and expectations by visiting careersatchickfila.com

1. Accrual plans begin on the first day of employment. However, paid leave is not available until after 90 days of employment.

2. Items provided may include additional restrictions or requirements pursuant to the Employee Handbook and Company policies.

3. Available for all full time employees working at least 30 hours per week within the measurement period.

4. Must be at least 21 years of age and work over 1,040 hours per year (average of 20 hours per week) to become eligible.

At Chick-fil-A Costa Mesa we offer outstanding incentives to top talent team members. We are cultivating an authentic culture of care by investing in your personal development and creating an environment where: you have clear opportunities to grow, you are empowered to become a positive influential leader, communication is healthy and effective, and we embrace authentic support, restoration, and optimism. We are also committed to providing competitive compensation advancements and a first-class benefits package.

Education:{"credentialcategory":"associate degree","@type":"EducationalOccupationalCredential"}Employment Type: FULL_TIME

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About Chick-fil-A

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Chick-fil-A, based in Atlanta, GA, US, is a well-known company in the quick-service restaurant industry. The company's official website is chick-fil-a.com. Chick-fil-A specializes in freshly prepared chicken sandwiches and other delicious chicken meals. It was founded by Truett Cathy in 1946, initially as a diner named 'The Dwarf Grill'. In 1967, the first Chick-fil-A restaurant was established. Today, Chick-fil-A operates more than 2,400 restaurants across the U.S. The core values of the company include integrity, excellence, continuous improvement, and caring. The mission of Chick-fil-A is to "Be America's best quick-service restaurant." The company prides itself on providing high-quality food and service, fostering a positive dining experience, and giving back to the communities they serve. Notable achievements include pioneering in-mall fast food and introducing the original boneless chicken sandwich.

Industry

Restaurants, food services and drinking places and traveler accommodation

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Atlanta, GA, US

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