KITCHEN LEAD

San Clemente

Who We Are:

Sur Coffee is a coffee roaster and café with a dedication to crafting high-quality coffee, fresh pastries, and breakfast dishes. As part of our growth, we’ve launched an in-house baking and breakfast program and will soon expand into lunch, dinner, and a beer and wine menu. To support this expansion, we are seeking a skilled Kitchen Lead to take charge of our kitchen operations.

Job Description:

We are looking for a dedicated and experienced Kitchen Lead with a strong baking background. This is a full-time role that involves overseeing daily baking, preparing breakfast items, and managing kitchen tasks in an independent workspace. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working solo, managing their time effectively, and maintaining the high standards of Sur Coffee. This role works alongside Cafe Manager and reports to General Manager.

Responsibilities:

Bake a variety of pastries, breads, and other baked goods from scratch in an independent workspace
Prepare and cook breakfast dishes, as well as manage dough prep for future use
Follow recipes precisely, ensuring consistency and quality across all kitchen products
Operate and maintain large kitchen equipment such as mixers, ovens, and blenders
Manage inventory, track ingredient usage, and handle ingredient ordering as needed
Keep the kitchen organized, clean, and compliant with food safety standards
Collaborate with management to refine and update recipes, menu items, and seasonal offerings
Train and support any additional kitchen staff as necessary
Demonstrate excellent time management, working efficiently and independently
Communicate effectively with management to address any production, inventory, or equipment concerns

Qualifications:

1-2 Required; 3-5 Preferred years of experience in a professional kitchen or bakery
Strong baking skills with a deep understanding of recipes and kitchen equipment
A team-oriented mindset, with the ability to take initiative and lead kitchen operations
Excellent time management skills and the ability to multitask without direct oversight
Strong communication skills for reporting inventory needs and operational issues
Flexibility to work early mornings (5 am start), weekends, and holidays
Ability to perform physical tasks such as lifting up to 50 lbs and standing for extended periods
Commitment to cleanliness, organization, and food safety protocols

What We Offer:

$17-23/hr A share of tips
Accrued paid time off
Health insurance contribution
Opportunities for professional growth as the business expands

If you're passionate about baking and thrive in an independent workspace, we’d love to hear from you!

ALL POSITIONS

GREET ALL YOU MEET

Say hello to everyone you see and make eye contact (SMILE).
Remember the guest or team member’s names and use them often.

TAKE PERSONAL RESPONSIBILITY FOR GUEST SATISFACTION

Listen and respond with empathy to guest or team member inquiries and stay with the individual until he/she is satisfied.
Never say, “NO”, ask for assistance.

PRACTICE CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT

First, master the basics! DO IT RIGHT THE FIRST TIME!
Look for ways to do your work better, faster and smarter. Share those ideas.
Be part of the solution; always accompany criticisms with suggestions for improvement.
Keep an open mind; be “flexible” to do new things and old things in new ways.

TAKE PRIDE IN SUR COFFEE

If you see something on the floor, pick it up.
Show proper care for tools, equipment and facilities.
Speak positively about the company and your co-workers.

PRACTICE TEAMWORK

Pitch in and help – Don’t wait to be asked.
It is okay to ask for help.

RESPOND WITH A SENSE OF URGENCY

Do not let obstacles become your excuse.
Be flexible – accomplish the task and follow-up.

HAVE FUN

Have fun and carry a great positive attitude. Being “positive” and “upbeat” does wonders for you and those around you.

GUEST SERVICE STANDARDS

Always remember to practice the Guest Service Standards for both internal and external guests.

Smile
Greet
Respond
Resolve
Thank and Invite Back

Sur Coffee

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