Lead Cook - Lil T Cup Cafe (Aiea) (Aiea)

Job Summary Lil T Cup Café is seeking a dependable and skilled Lead Cook to support our Café Chef and oversee day-to-day kitchen execution. The Lead Cook supports the Chef by preparing high-quality food and assisting with baked goods, ensuring consistency, safety, and smooth kitchen operations. Acting as second-in-command, the Lead Cook supervises Line Cooks during shifts and runs the kitchen when the Chef is not present. This role requires strong cooking and baking skills, leadership ability, and a commitment to maintaining a kitchen culture rooted in aloha. ________________________________________ Key Responsibilities Kitchen Operations & Food Preparation • Prepare and cook menu items according to Lil T Cup Café standards under the direction of the Chef. • Assist with daily prep, line cooking, and baking. • Maintain cleanliness and organization of kitchen stations, equipment, and storage. • Ensure all food safety and sanitation standards are met. Team Support & Leadership • Provide day-to-day direction to Line Cooks, reporting directly to the Chef. • Act as shift lead, supervising kitchen operations when the Chef is absent. • Support training and mentorship of kitchen staff, as assigned by the Chef. • Promote a respectful, efficient, and collaborative kitchen culture rooted in aloha. Menu & Product Support • Execute recipes and specials collaborated by the Chef & leadership, ensuring consistency in quality and presentation. • Offer feedback to the Chef on kitchen workflow and seasonal ideas. • Assist with prep lists, inventory checks, and communicating supply needs to the Chef. ________________________________________ Qualifications • 2–3+ years of professional kitchen experience (cafe, restaurant, or bakery). • Strong cooking and baking skills, with knowledge of food safety practices. • Dependable, organized, and able to handle a fast-paced kitchen. • Comfortable leading small teams while respecting the Chef’s overall authority. • Able to run the kitchen responsibly in the Chef’s absence. • Passion for quality food, teamwork, and community-centered hospitality.