Kitchen Team Lead (DAK's Market) - Vinita, OK

The Kitchen Team Lead at DAK's Market is responsible for ensuring that all daily kitchen activities are efficient. This includes ordering kitchen supplies, managing payroll, supervising staff performance, and ensuring compliance with safety and hygiene regulations. The Kitchen Team Lead plays a vital role in fostering communication between the front and back of the house, preparing shift schedules, and actively looking for ways to improve guest dining experiences.

To apply for the Kitchen Team Lead position at DAK's Market, candidates should have a high school diploma and experience in restaurant operations, preferably in a supervisory role. Familiarity with restaurant management software such as OpenTable and PeachWorks, strong communication skills, and a positive customer service attitude are essential. If you have additional certification in hospitality, that's a plus!

DAK's Market is committed to employee development by providing proper onboarding for new hires, which includes scheduling training and ensuring they have the necessary uniforms. Continuous improvement is encouraged through gathering guest feedback and implementing recommendations to enhance the dining experience. Furthermore, our competitive compensation package includes options that cater to your well-being and career growth.

The work schedule for a Kitchen Team Lead at DAK's Market requires flexibility to work during opening hours, including evenings, holidays, and weekends. This flexibility allows the Kitchen Team Lead to manage shifts effectively while ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently. Our commitment to a work-life balance means that schedules can be adjusted to suit personal needs.

At DAK's Market, you can expect a supportive and dynamic team culture where hard work is celebrated, and employee recognition is part of our core values. We prioritize open communication and teamwork between staff roles, fostering a collaborative environment that focuses on providing exceptional service to our customers. Joining us means becoming part of a team dedicated to creating memorable experiences for our guests.

To ensure effective communication between kitchen staff and waitstaff, I encourage open dialogue and regular briefings at the start of each shift. Using a consistent method, such as a kitchen display system or order confirmation procedure, helps clarify orders and expectations. I also advocate for a collaborative environment where staff members can share suggestions on improving workflow.

During busy hours, I prioritize organization and delegation. I make sure that all staff are aware of their specific roles and responsibilities and that they have everything they need for their tasks. Keeping a positive and calm atmosphere also helps to encourage efficiency and collaboration among the team, ensuring that we provide quick service without compromising quality.

When conflicts arise among kitchen staff, I address them promptly and privately, allowing each party to express their concerns. I encourage open communication and aim to find a resolution that satisfies everyone involved. Maintaining a harmonious work environment is essential for team performance, so I often follow up to ensure the issue doesn’t persist.

Food safety and hygiene is a critical aspect of my experience in the restaurant industry. I ensure that all kitchen staff are trained thoroughly on safe food handling procedures and hygiene practices. Regular audits and checks are conducted to make sure that our practices comply with local health regulations, creating a safe and welcoming environment for both staff and customers.

To keep track of kitchen costs and revenues, I utilize restaurant management software, which allows me to input all expenses and sales effectively. I regularly review this data, comparing it against our goals, and I keep detailed records of daily, weekly, and monthly financial performance to identify trends and areas for improvement.

I believe in leading by example and consistently recognizing staff efforts. Regularly acknowledging achievements, whether big or small, and fostering a positive atmosphere builds morale. I also involve staff in discussions about menu improvements or special events to give them a sense of ownership in their work.

My approach to staff onboarding and training involves a structured process where new hires receive a thorough introduction to our operations. I pair them with experienced team members for mentorship, ensuring they learn practical skills and have the confidence to thrive in their roles. Regular feedback sessions help them adjust and develop their abilities.

In my kitchen management experience, I have worked extensively with software such as OpenTable for reservation management and PeachWorks for inventory tracking and order management. Familiarizing myself with these tools has allowed me to streamline operations and improve customer experiences effectively.

I actively solicit and encourage customer feedback as it’s invaluable for our improvement. I regularly review and analyze the feedback received, whether positive or negative, and discuss it with the team to brainstorm ways we can enhance our menu and overall dining experience.

A successful Kitchen Team Lead should possess strong leadership and communication skills, along with an in-depth understanding of kitchen operations. An unwavering commitment to customer service and the ability to remain calm under pressure are essential. Additionally, being adaptable and embracing feedback are qualities that help ensure success in this dynamic role.