Culinary Lead - Quick Hire!

CAVA is a dynamic and rapidly growing fast-casual Mediterranean restaurant brand that is dedicated to making it deliciously simple for people to eat well and feel good every day. Rooted in a rich Mediterranean heritage that spans over four thousand years, CAVA prides itself on authenticity, curiosity, and a relentless pursuit of excellence in all aspects of its business. The company emphasizes a culture built on five core values: generosity first, always; constant curiosity; acting with agility; passion for positivity; and collective ambition. These values shape the way team members interact, grow, and succeed together, underpinning the company’s commitment to fostering a supportive and inspiring work environment. As a Culinary Lead at CAVA, you will occupy a pivotal role within the restaurant. This is an hourly kitchen manager position that involves leading and developing grill and prep teams, managing special operations trainers, and driving food quality and safety standards. The Culinary Lead acts not only as a coach and mentor but also as a hands-on leader who ensures smooth operations, outstanding customer experiences, and consistent delivery of mouthwatering meals. This role is integral to maintaining the high standards that define CAVA’s brand and operational excellence. The Culinary Lead will have a mix of managerial and operational responsibilities, including opening or closing the restaurant, supporting food and beverage management tasks such as ordering and inventory organization, and fostering new leadership skills to empower team success. The ideal candidate is hardworking, detail-oriented, and possesses a proven track record of coaching and developing team members. Flexibility is essential, including the ability to cross-train across kitchen functions to support rapid business growth. Physical stamina is also important, as the role may require standing for extended periods and lifting up to 50 pounds. The position offers valuable experience in food service leadership, career development opportunities, and benefits such as health, dental and vision insurance, telemedicine access, pet insurance, 401(k) enrollment with company match, paid sick and parental leave, and complimentary meals during shifts. Joining CAVA means becoming part of a team committed to high aspirations achieved through collaboration, kindness, learning, and adaptability. This culinary leadership opportunity is perfect for individuals passionate about food, hospitality, and leading teams to succeed in a fast-paced, values-driven environment.

• Must be able to stand for long periods of time and lift up to 50 pounds
• must be able to bend and reach overhead often
• must possess dexterity to handle tongs pots and 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