Culinary Lead - Join the Team!

CAVA is a fast-growing culinary brand known for its fresh, Mediterranean-inspired, better-for-you cuisine. With over 70 fast-casual restaurants across the country and an expanding packaged goods line, CAVA has built a strong presence in the dining industry by consistently offering bold, innovative food options that appeal to health-conscious consumers. The company is deeply committed to fueling full lives by creating an energizing food culture centered around transparency, humility, positivity, thoughtfulness, and fanaticism. CAVA’s team members, both in restaurants and at the Support Center, collaborate to foster a vibrant and supportive work environment that encourages personal growth and community engagement. The role of a Culinary Lead at CAVA is a critical position responsible for maintaining the highest standards of food quality and safety throughout the restaurant. Culinary Leads play a pivotal role in leading and coaching team members to ensure that the CAVA brand promise is delivered consistently to every guest. This role requires a hardworking, attentive, and proactive individual capable of managing operational details while fostering cohesion and motivation within the team. As a Culinary Lead, you will oversee the grill, prep teams, and Special Ops trainers, providing hands-on leadership and mentoring to ensure seamless kitchen operations. You will be trusted to open or close the restaurant, managing all associated responsibilities that come with these pivotal shifts. This position offers an opportunity to acquire foundational knowledge in food and beverage management, including ordering, inventory management, and organizational systems that are essential to restaurant operations. Culinary Leads at CAVA are expected to develop new leadership skills and focus on personal growth while supporting the development of their coworkers. The role emphasizes putting the customer first by creating loyal CAVA fans who appreciate excellent service and quality food. Taking ownership of every shift and working collaboratively with team members to solve problems and adapt to changing situations is essential. Culinary Leads contribute to a positive work culture by embracing CAVA’s core values and fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment. CAVA offers a clearly defined career path for Culinary Leads who are interested in growing within the company. Opportunities for advancement include roles such as Guest Experience Manager and General Manager, with ongoing training programs and mentorship to support professional development. This role is perfect for individuals passionate about restaurant leadership and eager to make an impact on a fast-growing brand. The company provides competitive compensation with a base hourly rate and an attractive benefits package. Benefits include health, dental, vision, telemedicine, and pet insurance, alongside 401k enrollment with a CAVA contribution after one year. Team members also receive free CAVA food, paid sick leave, parental leave, and community service leave. Working at CAVA means being part of a dynamic team where fun is a priority and everyone contributes to the culture – a culture, not a concept.

• High school diploma or equivalent
• prior experience in food service or culinary roles
• ability to lead and motivate a team
• strong attention to detail
• good organizational skills
• availability to work varied shifts including early mornings and late evenings
• commitment to maintaining food safety standards