Kitchen Leader - $15.7 to $17.46 per HOUR
Posted on October 24, 2025
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. (NYSE: CMG) is a globally recognized fast-casual restaurant chain known for its commitment to cultivating a better world through responsibly sourced and classically cooked real food. Established with a distinct philosophy that challenges the traditional fast-food experience, Chipotle has consistently prioritized wholesome ingredients free from artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Operating restaurants across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, Chipotle stands out in the food industry as the only large restaurant company that owns and operates all its locations in North America and Europe. Chipotle’s ongoing dedication to innovation and sustainability complements its passion for delivering an exceptional guest experience driven by employees who embody the brand's mission and values.
Joining Chipotle means becoming part of a people-first company that deeply values diversity, equity, and inclusion. The company is committed to fostering a supportive culture where all qualified applicants are encouraged to apply, including those with disabilities who may require accommodations during the hiring process. Chipotle also leads the way in digital technology and sustainable business practices, ensuring that its food is accessible to everyone while maintaining a strong commitment to ethical sourcing and environmental responsibility.
The Kitchen Leader role at Chipotle is a vital leadership position responsible for maintaining the kitchen’s high standards in food preparation, quality, safety, and cleanliness. The Kitchen Leader directly impacts the customer experience by ensuring that every dish served meets the company's rigorous food quality expectations. This position is hands-on and fast-paced, requiring the leader to manage food preparation, grill meats, sauté vegetables, and uphold strict kitchen procedures. The Kitchen Leader also plays an essential role in stock management, monitoring inventory levels, minimizing food waste, and ensuring that kitchen equipment is properly maintained and functioning. By embodying the company’s Food With Integrity philosophy, the Kitchen Leader serves as a role model who fosters teamwork, encourages development among crew members, and trains future Kitchen Leaders.
In addition to day-to-day kitchen management, the Kitchen Leader supports a positive working environment by facilitating strong communication between front-of-house and back-of-house teams. The role demands constant vigilance in maintaining kitchen cleanliness, adhering to safety protocols to prevent accidents, and completing necessary documentation such as Material Safety Data Sheets and inventory rotation. This leadership position requires a combination of culinary skills, operational knowledge, and people management to drive efficiency and uphold the high standards that Chipotle customers expect.
Working as a Kitchen Leader at Chipotle provides numerous benefits including tuition assistance for select degrees, free meals during shifts, comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, digital tips, paid time off, holiday closures, competitive compensation, and strong opportunities for career advancement with the possibility of growing into managerial roles. This is an excellent opportunity for individuals passionate about food, leadership, and making a positive impact on the fast-casual restaurant scene.
- Have the ability to understand and articulate Chipotle's Food With Integrity philosophy
- have the knowledge and ability to speak, write, and understand the primary language(s) of the work location
- have a high school diploma
- have restaurant experience