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Overview:

The Kitchen Area Manager plays a key role in supporting the Food & Beverage team by overseeing the daily operations of Park Kitchens. This hands-on leadership position ensures food safety, quality, and consistency across all culinary offerings, while also contributing to the creative development of seasonal and core menu items.

Responsibilities:

Key Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership & Menu Development

+ Collaborates with the culinary leadership team on recipe development and seasonal menu planning.

+ Standardizes recipes to ensure consistent quality and presentation across all locations.

+ Identifies new techniques and creative presentations to enhance guest experience.

+ Oversees production lists and delegates tasks to kitchen staff based on operational needs.

Kitchen Operations & Team Management

+ Supervises daily kitchen operations, including food production, presentation, and service.

+ Maintains a strong working knowledge of all food items and applies culinary techniques consistently.

+ Trains, motivates, and manages kitchen personnel, providing coaching, performance reviews, and re-training as needed.

+ Creates schedules and ensures adequate staffing to meet business demands.

+ Fosters a positive work environment by leading through example and enforcing departmental standards.

Safety, Sanitation & Maintenance

+ Ensures strict adherence to state and federal food safety regulations.

+ Maintains cleanliness and organization of all kitchen areas, equipment, and utensils.

+ Monitors equipment condition and follows standard operating procedures for reporting repairs or maintenance needs.

+ Upholds Culinary Excellence Standards and promotes safe food handling practices.

Inventory, Ordering & Budget Management

+ Coordinates with Purchasing and Warehouse teams to maintain essential ingredients and supplies.

+ Establishes and monitors par levels to ensure efficient production and minimize waste.

+ Assists with catering and in-park foodservice needs.

+ Supports cost control strategies and meets budgetary goals.

Administrative & Communication Duties

+ Completes required administrative paperwork and documentation.

+ Maintains effective communication with all staff, departments, and leadership.

+ Responds professionally to incoming calls, emails, and radio communications.

+ Builds and maintains productive relationships with other departments across the park.

Qualifications:

Qualifications

+ High school diploma or GED required; college coursework or culinary training strongly preferred.

+ Minimum of 4–6 years of relevant culinary or foodservice experience.

+ At least 3–5 years of supervisory or leadership experience in a kitchen or foodservice environment.

+ Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen operations.

+ Proficient in basic computer applications, including Microsoft Outlook, Excel, and Word.

+ Valid California Food Handler’s Card and ServSafe Food Manager Certification required.

+ ServSafe Alcohol Certification required.

+ Valid driver’s license required.

+ Strong understanding of the proper use, cleaning, and maintenance of commercial kitchen equipment, including but not limited to: gas and electric ranges, convection ovens, flat-top grills, deep fryers, refrigeration units, food processors, slicers, mixers, dish machines, and standard kitchen utensils.

+ Ability to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays, to meet business needs.

+ Must be able to pass a background check and drug screening in accordance with company policy and applicable laws.

+ Demonstrated experience in inventory management, ordering, and recipe standardization is essential to ensure consistent food quality and efficient kitchen operations.

Cedar Fair Entertainment Company is an equal opportunity employer. A work permit may be required for associates under the age of 18. Applicants must be legally eligible for employment in the United States and in accordance with state laws. Cedar Fair also conducts background checks on all applicants 18 years of age and older.