Job Description
Food Service Lead
Reports To: Food Service Assistant Manager / Site Manager
Position Summary
The Food Service Lead supports daily food service operations by assisting with food preparation, customer service, sanitation, inventory, and team coordination. This position works closely with the Food Service Assistant Manager to help maintain high standards of quality, safety, efficiency, and customer satisfaction. The Food Service Lead provides leadership and direction to staff during assigned shifts and assumes oversight responsibilities in the absence of the Assistant Manager.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
• Assist with daily food service operations, including food preparation, service, sanitation, and closing procedures.
• Provide support and direction to food service employees during assigned shifts.
• Assist in training and coaching employees on food preparation, customer service, and company standards.
• Follow and enforce company policies, food safety standards, and health department regulations.
• Monitor food quality, portion control, and presentation standards.
• Assist with inventory control, product rotation, ordering, and stocking.
• Support labor and food cost control efforts through efficient operations and waste reduction.
• Address customer concerns and resolve service issues professionally.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment.
• Complete opening and closing duties as assigned.
• Relieve and assist the Food Service Assistant Manager during absences or time off.
• Communicate operational concerns, staffing issues, and customer feedback to the Assistant Manager.
• Work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as required by business needs.
Menu Development & Food Preparation Support
• Assist with preparation and execution of menu items in accordance with company recipes and standards.
• Support implementation of new recipes, promotions, and seasonal offerings.
• Ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, and portioning.
• Assist in training staff on recipe preparation, portion standards, and presentation techniques.
• Help maintain accurate recipe and preparation documentation.
• Monitor product freshness and assist in minimizing food waste.
Qualifications
• High school diploma or GED preferred.
• Prior food service or lead experience preferred.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety practices.
• Strong customer service and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment and manage multiple tasks.
• Basic computer and cash handling skills preferred.
• Ability to work independently and take direction from management.
Physical Job Requirements
The physical demands described below are representative of those required to perform the essential functions of this position:
• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, up to the duration of a full shift.
• Ability to lift, carry, push, or pull up to 25–50 pounds on a regular basis.
• Frequent bending, reaching, stooping, twisting, and kneeling.
• Manual dexterity for food preparation, equipment operation, and paperwork.
• Ability to work in environments that may be hot, cold, humid, or noisy.
• Ability to communicate clearly with staff, vendors, and customers.
Work Environment
This position works primarily in a food service setting and may involve exposure to hot equipment, food preparation areas, cleaning chemicals, and high-volume customer interactions.
Disclaimer
This job description describes the general nature and level of work performed and is not an exhaustive list of duties, responsibilities, or qualifications. Job duties may change at any time based on business needs.