Lead Cook / Team Leader (Government Contract Meal Services)

Position Type

Independent Contractor (1099)
Full-Time | Onsite
Immediate Start Upon Hiring

Overview

We are seeking an experienced Lead Cook / Team Leader to support a government food service contract producing 500+ meals daily. This role is responsible for leading kitchen operations, developing flexible and compliant menus, managing raw materials, and directing kitchen staff to ensure consistent, high-quality meal production in a fast-paced environment.

The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with strong culinary skills, operational discipline, and the ability to manage people, food safety, and production schedules simultaneously.

Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Leadership & Operations

Lead daily kitchen operations for large-scale meal production (500+ meals per day)

Supervise, train, and coordinate kitchen staff to ensure efficient workflow and accountability

Establish daily prep schedules, cooking timelines, and service execution plans

Maintain consistent food quality, portion control, and presentation standards

Menu Development & Food Production

Develop and maintain flexible, rotating menus that meet contractual requirements, nutritional guidelines, and client needs

Adjust menus based on availability of raw materials, dietary considerations, and production volume

Ensure menus are cost-effective while maintaining quality and consistency

Inventory & Raw Materials Management

Oversee ordering, receiving, and storage of raw materials and supplies

Monitor inventory levels to prevent shortages, overproduction, or waste

Ensure proper food rotation, labeling, and storage practices

Food Safety & Compliance

Enforce food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards at all times

Ensure compliance with local, state, and federal food handling regulations

Maintain a clean, organized, and inspection-ready kitchen environment

Team Leadership & Accountability

Set clear expectations for kitchen staff performance and conduct

Address performance issues promptly and professionally

Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement

Communication & Reporting

Communicate effectively with contract management regarding staffing, production needs, and operational challenges

Provide input on process improvements to increase efficiency and reduce waste

Qualifications

Proven experience as a Lead Cook, Kitchen Supervisor, or Head Cook in high-volume food service

Experience producing meals at scale (institutional, government, catering, or commercial kitchen preferred)

Strong leadership and team management skills

Solid understanding of food safety and sanitation standards

Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-accountability environment

Reliable, punctual, and professional

Compensation

Competitive pay, commensurate with experience

Consistent workload under a government contract

Start Date

Immediate start available upon hiring