Kitchen Lead

Position Summary
The Moscow Food Co-op is seeking a Kitchen Lead to supervise the preparation and production of salads, entrees, and other dishes for the deli cases, hot bar, and salad bar. In this role, you will support kitchen operations through cooking, prepping, cleaning, stocking, and guiding team members. You will assist the Kitchen Manager in achieving goals for production, sales, margin, and labor while upholding Co-op standards of quality, sustainability, and customer service.

If you are a collaborative, motivated culinary leader who thrives in a busy environment and values fresh, local, and diverse food options, we encourage you to apply.

This position is full-time (38-40hrs); Days and shifts vary and include early morning, evenings and weekends. Candidates must be available to work weekends, holidays and university breaks.

Qualifications and Requirements:

• 1-3 years prior cooking experience in a high volume restaurant or deli;; knowledge of specialized or alternative diets preferred
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a team environment and to follow instructions accurately
• Highly motivated, dependable, and capable of performing in a fast-paced setting
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to interact positively with a diverse range of customers and employees
• Consistent punctuality and reliability
• Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds
• Possession of, or the ability to obtain, an Idaho Health Department Food Safety Certification

Compensation and Benefits:
The Moscow Food Co-op provides a competitive compensation package and a supportive work environment. In a recent employee opinion survey, staff members rated the Co-op highly as a place of employment and expressed pride in their workplace.

• All employees receive a 20% store discount, accrue Paid Time Off (PTO), and are eligible to participate in the Co-op’s 401(k) retirement plan.
• Full-time employees (38–40 hours per week) are eligible for Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance; Short-term Disability Insurance; Accident and Hospital Insurance; as well as Telemedicine and Telemed Mental Health services.
• Part-time employees (20+ hours per week) are eligible for Dental Insurance; Short-term Disability Insurance; Accident and Hospital Insurance; and Telemedicine and Telemed Mental Health services.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare foods according to established recipes to ensure consistency, using local, seasonal, and organic ingredients whenever possible.
• Demonstrate knowledge of vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free diets.
• Complete assigned production schedules by the end of shift and review with supervisor; maintain accurate production checklists and records throughout shift.
• Ensure signage for all prepared items is accurate, including full ingredient lists and allergen information.
• Maintain the freshness and appearance of deli, salad, and grab-and-go cases.
• Practice safe food handling, heating, cooling, and storage procedures; properly use thermometers and ice wands.
• Record food samples and waste accurately in the waste log.
• Assist coworkers as needed and complete assigned cleaning tasks before leaving shift.
• Stock supplies as required and communicate any shortages to the Kitchen Manager.
• Maintain a clean and organized work station; ensure the entire kitchen is clean and orderly at the end of each shift (including equipment, counters, floors, and storage areas).
• Work cooperatively with dishwashers, being mindful of safety and minimizing unnecessary dish use.
• Properly label, date, and store all prepar