Kitchen Manager – HIGH VOLUME, FULL-SERVICE ONLY in Avondale Estates, Georgia at VSP Cantina Avondale

KITCHEN MANAGER – HIGH VOLUME, FULL-SERVICE ONLY

Ophelia's Tavern – Avondale | Decatur, GA

New Restaurant Opening | Coming Soon - 2026

This is a leadership role for a serious kitchen operator — not a line lead or step-up position. We are opening a high-energy Tavern and hiring a proven Kitchen Manager to lead Back of House operations from day one. This role is critical to building the kitchen team, setting standards, and executing at a high level from the start.

NON-NEGOTIABLE REQUIREMENTS

• 5+ years managing kitchens in full-service, high-volume restaurants
• No fast casual/fast food backgrounds
• Strong track record of food cost control, labor management, and kitchen leadership
• Experience leading teams through high-volume service and operational pressure
• Ability to build systems, structure, and accountability from the ground up

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE Kitchen Execution

• Consistent, accurate, and timely ticket execution
• High-level plate consistency across every shift
• Strong expo awareness and communication

Food Cost & Efficiency

• Maintain food cost targets and minimize waste
• Control ordering, prep, and inventory with precision
• Execute clean, efficient prep systems

Team Leadership

• Build and retain a strong BOH team
• Train, coach, and develop key hourly leaders
• Hold team accountable to standards every shift

Standards & Safety

• Enforce strict food safety and sanitation standards
• Maintain a clean, organized, inspection-ready kitchen
• Ensure all systems and procedures are followed

WHO YOU ARE

• A hands-on kitchen leader — not a clipboard manager
• Leads from the line, not the office
• Organized, detail-driven, and highly accountable
• Calm under pressure and thrives in high-volume environments
• Takes pride in building strong teams and consistent execution

KEY ACCOUNTABILITY AREAS

• Full Back of House operations and daily execution
• Hiring, training, scheduling, and developing kitchen staff
• Food ordering, inventory, and cost control
• Prep systems, line execution, and ticket flow
• Kitchen cleanliness, safety, and compliance

COMPENSATION & BENEFITS

• Competitive Salary - $60-$75K Based on Experience
• Health, Dental, Vision (after 60 days)
• Paid Vacation
• Growth opportunities within a strong, expanding restaurant group

WHY THIS ROLE

This is a ground-floor opportunity to help open and lead the kitchen of a high-volume concept. You will play a direct role in building the team, setting the tone, and driving long-term success.

We’re looking for a Kitchen Manager who is driven by standards, accountability, and results — and who takes pride in running a tight, high-performing kitchen.