Kitchen Shift Leader - Walnut Creek, CA

Burger Lounge is a well-established restaurant brand known for its commitment to serving high-quality, grass-fed burgers and providing an exceptional dining experience. The company prides itself on putting its employees, referred to as Loungers, in the best position to succeed by fostering a positive workplace culture that values individuality, talent, and hard work. Burger Lounge emphasizes the importance of delivering not just food, but an experience, and this is reflected in their dedication to hiring personalities that align with their core values of kindness, respect, and excellence. With locations such as the Walnut Creek branch, Burger Lounge continues to expand their team of passionate professionals who are dedicated to serving food that honors both the body and the planet. The Kitchen Shift Leader role at Burger Lounge plays a crucial part in maintaining the company’s high standards behind the scenes. This non-exempt position reports directly to the General Manager and is responsible for overseeing the full kitchen operation, including staffing, food quality, safety, sanitation, and overall execution. The job requires a dynamic individual who can handle a fast-paced environment with professionalism and composure while leading a team effectively. The schedule for this role might vary, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays, making flexibility essential. The Kitchen Shift Leader ensures all kitchen staff follow company procedures through proper hiring, training, and regular assessments, cultivating a culture of accountability. They manage the back-of-house team schedules fairly and efficiently, guaranteeing staff readiness to deliver exceptional service. The role also involves active participation in screening applicants, conducting interviews in compliance with legal standards, and collaborating with the General Manager to monitor and control labor, food, and waste costs, ensuring profitability without compromising guest satisfaction. On a typical day, Kitchen Shift Leaders may assist kitchen staff directly or occasionally support front-of-house operations, while maintaining food safety standards such as proper temperature control and inventory rotation policies like first-in-first-out (FIFO). They are also responsible for ensuring that all opening and closing back-of-house tasks are completed thoroughly according to company checklists. Beyond the operational duties, the position demands strong leadership capabilities to motivate the kitchen team through busy shifts and to resolve any conflicts or challenges swiftly and diplomatically. Burger Lounge offers a competitive pay rate starting at $19.35 per hour, with tips increasing total earnings to between $22.35 and $24.35 per hour. Along with the rewarding work environment, the company provides a comprehensive benefits package, including medical, dental, vision, life, and accident insurance, 401(k) plan, free employee shift meals, instant pay options, and various wellness and travel discounts. Employee health and safety are paramount, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, with stringent protocols such as social distancing, mandatory personal protective equipment, and a rigorous sanitation regimen adapted from CDC guidelines. Joining Burger Lounge as a Kitchen Shift Leader means being part of a team that values uniqueness, encourages professional growth, and aims to provide an outstanding dining experience for guests. This role is well-suited for experienced kitchen supervisors who are ready to lead with integrity, support their team, and contribute to a positive workplace culture in a thriving restaurant environment.

• high school diploma or GED
• minimum of five (5) years recent experience in a fast-paced kitchen environment
• minimum of two (2) years of supervisory experience
• ability to remain calm under pressure and fast-paced environment
• leadership skills including resolving conflicts and motivating team
• reliable transportation
• ability to work a flexible schedule including weekends and evenings
• professional communication skills
• good organization and interpersonal skills
• maintain ServeSafe certification in good standing
• ensure staff has current Food Handlers Cards