Culinary Lead - Join the Team!

CAVA is a fast-growing restaurant company that prides itself on making it deliciously simple to eat well and feel good every day. Rooted in a rich Mediterranean heritage that spans over four thousand years, CAVA has perfected the art of eating and living well with authenticity, curiosity, and a pursuit of excellence at its core. The brand fosters a vibrant culture built on five core values: Generosity First, Always; Constant Curiosity; Act with Agility; Passion for Positivity; and Collective Ambition. Together, these values guide every team member to deliver exceptional customer experiences while continually evolving and growing both personally and professionally. The Culinary Lead (Hourly Kitchen Manager) position at CAVA is a pivotal role dedicated to leading and inspiring the grill and prep teams while ensuring food quality, safety, and exceptional service standards. This leadership role is designed for hardworking, detail-oriented individuals who thrive in fast-paced kitchen environments and possess a genuine passion for coaching and developing team members. At CAVA, the Culinary Lead takes on responsibilities that include opening or closing the restaurant, managing inventory and ordering, cross-training employees to promote rapid team growth, and maintaining consistent communication to ensure smooth operations throughout every shift. This is an ideal opportunity for those looking to build their leadership capabilities within a rapidly expanding brand that values collaboration and continuous improvement. In this role, the Culinary Lead plays an essential part in the success of CAVA by setting the tone for culinary excellence and operational efficiency. The position requires a high level of physical engagement, including the ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and operate effectively in environments ranging from hot to cold temperatures, including near open flames. Additionally, strong communication skills and the ability to handle multiple tasks simultaneously are critical to leading the team effectively. Benefits include competitive pay, comprehensive health packages, paid leave options, and a free meal for every shift worked. As an equal opportunity employer, CAVA strives to create an inclusive workplace where every team member can thrive regardless of their background.

• Must be able to bend and reach overhead often
• Must possess dexterity to handle tongs, pots/pans, and other equipment
• Must be comfortable working in temperatures ranging from hot to cold
• Must be comfortable working near open flames
• May be required to work in tight spaces
• Must maintain near constant communication with multiple people
• Close vision, distance vision, and peripheral vision is required
• Must be able to sit, squat and kneel occasionally
• Must be able to work in a constant state of alertness and safe manner
• May be required to occasionally work in outdoor weather conditions