Kitchen Manager

Description:

Big Big Table Community Café is seeking a passionate and skilled Kitchen Manager to play a critical leadership role in supporting its community-centric mission: Everybody Eats, Everybody Gives, Everybody Matters. The Kitchen Manager will oversee the entire kitchen operation and work closely with staff, volunteers, and community partners to ensure that high-quality meals are delivered in a welcoming and inclusive environment. The role calls for culinary excellence combined with a strong commitment to food justice and social impact.

Key Responsibilities:

Kitchen Operations:

• Oversee all food preparation and kitchen activities while ensuring compliance with NY State and Erie County Health and Safety regulations

• Maintain cleanliness, proper food storage, labeling, temperature logs, composting, and food rotation

• Plan daily and seasonal menus utilizing rescued produce, donations, and locally sourced farm goods

• Supervise equipment maintenance, food ordering, inventory management, and daily kitchen opening/closing procedures

• Lead food prep for special events and coordinate with guest chefs and volunteers

• Develop and implement recipes that meet cost-efficiency standards

Volunteer & Program Support:

• Train and mentor volunteers, interns, and workforce development program participants (A4TD, FeedMore RISE, etc.)

• Use trauma-informed and inclusive approaches to manage a diverse volunteer base

• Work collaboratively with the Executive Team to maintain a positive and team-oriented kitchen culture

• Support individuals with disabilities and marginalized populations in gaining culinary skills

Administrative & Budgeting:

• Collaborate with the Board and Executive Team on budgeting, vendor relationships, and cost control

• Track and reduce food waste

• Maintain equipment and compliance with safety inspections

• Assist with managing kitchen budgets, financial reports, and food cost analysis

• Cultivate relationships with food donors, recovery organizations, local farms, and suppliers

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds

• Stand for extended periods and work near hot equipment

• Use sharp tools safely

• Navigate steps and engage with café guests professionally in a trauma-informed manner

Ideal Candidate Profile:

• Passionate about food, hospitality, and community development

• Minimum of 4 years of experience in a similar role

• ServSafe certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days)

• Experience with nonprofit or community kitchens is a strong plus

• Effective communicator and mentor, particularly with volunteers of all backgrounds

• Familiarity with trauma-informed care, mental health support, and harm reduction is valued

• Comfortable with basic Microsoft Office applications

• Committed to inclusivity, respect for all individuals, and community empowerment