AeroCareers Job Posting: Kitchen Leader - $21 to $24 per HOUR at Chipotle. This is a Full-Time role in Santa Maria, CA, USA, CA. Salary: $21 - $24.

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Kitchen Leader - $21 to $24 per HOUR

Posted on October 24, 2025

Santa Maria, CA, USA, CA Full-Time $21 - $24
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc. is a renowned fast-casual restaurant chain that has transformed the conventional fast-food experience with its commitment to serving responsibly sourced, classically cooked, and real food made from wholesome ingredients without artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. Established as a leader and innovator within the food industry, Chipotle operates restaurants across the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, maintaining ownership and operation of all its restaurants in North America and Europe, which is a rare accomplishment for a company of its size. The brand proudly focuses on cultivating a better world through sustainable business practices, digital technology advancements, and a purposeful dedication to making better food accessible to everyone. Chipotle’s mission extends beyond food; the company champions diversity, equity, and inclusion, fostering a people-first culture that values hiring world-class individuals who embody their values and contribute to a positive guest experience every day. The Kitchen Leader role at Chipotle is a pivotal position that combines leadership, culinary skills, and team development responsibilities in a fast-paced, dynamic environment. This full-time opportunity offers a competitive pay range between $21.25 and $23.65 per hour, with additional digital tips and a comprehensive benefits package. As a Kitchen Leader, you will immerse yourself in Chipotle’s unique Food With Integrity philosophy, learning to prepare delicious meals by cooking and sautéing with precision and care. Your primary responsibility will be ensuring the consistent quality and safety of all food prepared in the kitchen while maintaining cleanliness, organization, and proper equipment maintenance to support seamless kitchen operations. You will train and mentor crew members, helping them grow into future Kitchen Leaders by demonstrating best practices and fostering a strong team dynamic between back-of-house and front-of-house staff. This role demands hands-on involvement where being proactive, multitasking, and pitching in wherever necessary is vital to meet station goals and uphold Chipotle standards. From managing inventory and monitoring food waste to ensuring proper sanitation and equipment upkeep, the Kitchen Leader ensures operational excellence while enhancing the overall customer experience. In addition to culinary responsibilities, your role will include administrative tasks such as completing Material Safety Data Sheets and managing inventory rotation using FIFO (First In, First Out) principles to minimize waste and maximize freshness. Safety is paramount, and you will enforce workplace guidelines to reduce the likelihood of accidents or injuries, maintaining a safe environment for your team. Chipotle offers robust opportunities for career advancement, with approximately 80% of its management team having started as crew members, making this a prime opportunity to grow within a forward-thinking and socially responsible company committed to your development and success.
  • Have a high school diploma
  • have restaurant experience
  • ability to understand and articulate Chipotle’s Food With Integrity philosophy
  • ability to speak, write, and understand the primary language(s) of the work location
  • be physically able to work on feet for extended periods
  • be able to pass background checks and comply with company policies