Culinary Lead - Join the Team!

CAVA is a dynamic and rapidly expanding fast-casual restaurant brand deeply rooted in Mediterranean heritage. With a legacy that spans over four thousand years, CAVA is passionate about making it deliciously simple to eat well and feel good every day. The company's approach is founded on authentic flavors, curiosity, and the continual pursuit of excellence, resulting in an innovative dining experience that honors tradition while embracing modern culinary trends. CAVA is not just a restaurant; it is a community-oriented business that prioritizes values that foster team collaboration, personal growth, and exceptional guest experiences. CAVA's core values shape its vibrant culture and guide its operations. These include Generosity First, Always, which emphasizes kind leadership and serving others; Constant Curiosity, encouraging eagerness to learn and grow beyond the obvious; Acting with Agility to embrace change and adapt quickly; Passion for Positivity to greet each day with warmth; and Collective Ambition, highlighting the power of shared goals and teamwork. These values create a positive and supportive workplace atmosphere at CAVA, inviting employees to thrive and contribute meaningfully. The Culinary Lead (Hourly Kitchen Manager) role at CAVA is a critical position that blends leadership, culinary expertise, and operational management. The individual in this role is responsible for inspiring and leading grill and prep teams as well as Special Ops trainers, ensuring adherence to food quality and safety standards, and delivering exceptional meals consistently. As the Hourly Kitchen Manager, you will open or close the restaurant, support food and beverage management duties such as ordering and inventory, and develop leadership skills to effectively coach and grow your team. This role demands a hands-on, hardworking individual who pays close attention to detail and is comfortable working in fast-paced environments. You will be expected to lead by example, fostering a team spirit that aligns with CAVA’s core values and business goals. The work environment involves standing for long periods, lifting up to 50 pounds, and working with kitchen equipment and food preparation tools safely and efficiently. Physical dexterity, communication skills, and the ability to adapt to changing conditions, including varying temperatures and occasionally tight spaces, are vital for success in this position. Joining CAVA as a Culinary Lead means becoming part of a brand on a growth trajectory with opportunities to advance professionally. CAVA offers competitive pay in addition to a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, telemedicine, pet insurance, 401k with contributions, paid sick leave, parental leave, and the benefit of a free meal each shift. The company values diversity and equal opportunity, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds to join their mission of making Mediterranean-inspired food accessible and enjoyable for everyone. If you are someone who is passionate about leading culinary teams, ensuring quality and safety in food service, and embodying the values of generosity, curiosity, agility, positivity, and ambition, then the Culinary Lead role at CAVA is an ideal fit for your skills and career aspirations. This position offers hands-on management experience, leadership development, and the chance to be part of an exciting, fast-growing restaurant concept where your contributions truly matter.

• High school diploma or equivalent
• prior experience in food service or culinary role
• ability to work flexible hours including opening and closing shifts
• capability to stand for extended periods
• physical ability to lift up to 50 pounds
• comfort working near open flames and varying temperatures
• strong interpersonal and communication skills
• willingness to learn and develop leadership skills