The Culinary Training Manager plays a crucial role within the Ugly Dumpling Organization, overseeing the culinary training programs. This multifaceted position involves designing comprehensive curricula, developing training materials, leading NSO (New Store Opening) training initiatives, and actively collaborating with the Executive Chef on product development and cost management. In addition, the Culinary Training Director is responsible for integrating robust food safety training into the curriculum, ensuring that our culinary teams are well-versed in best practices and compliance standards for a safe and hygienic kitchen environment.
Duties & Responsibilities
Primary responsibilities include, but are not limited to the following:
- Design and develop comprehensive culinary training programs that align with the restaurant's culinary philosophy, standards, and goals.
- Create training materials, manuals, and resources for both new hires and ongoing professional development.
- Develop and deliver comprehensive onboarding programs for new culinary team members, providing them with the necessary skills and knowledge to excel in their roles.
- Administer hands-on training at New Store Openings (“NSO”).
- Ensure Regional Managers, Store Management, and company trainers are well-versed in specific restaurant openings and training skills.
- Audit materials to ensure compliance with SOP updates and new restaurant needs/programs
- Collaborate with the Executive Chef in developing new menu items.
- Manage recipe database, inventory tracking system, and cost analysis
- Create and maintain a robust food safety program, including procedures for handling, storage, and preparation, to ensure compliance with industry regulations and standards.
- Facilitate ongoing professional development opportunities for kitchen staff, including workshops, seminars, and mentorship programs.
- Stay current with industry trends and culinary innovations, integrating relevant updates into training programs.
- Maintain clear and open communication channels with kitchen staff to address concerns, provide constructive feedback, and encourage a positive learning environment.
- Foster a culture of continuous improvement and teamwork within the culinary team.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
Essential Functions
- Bilingual in Mandarin preferred
- Back of house food service experience.
- Experience working with Everclean or Steritech.
- Servsafe Food Safety Manager – Servsafe Proctor and Instructor preferred.
- Prior experience managing training solutions in a restaurant environment.
- Proficient in Microsoft Suites.
- Excellent written and verbal communication
- Experience in creating training materials and video-based content.
- Ability to travel frequently with flexible working hours.
- Travel time subject to change: approx. 50% of the month (this includes out-of-state).
