Fiesta Fuel Taco Truck is a mobile food business offering delicious, high-quality tacos to the Ames community. Specializing in late-night food services, we aim to provide a great experience for customers while delivering high-quality service and food. As a small, growing business, we are looking for a passionate and experienced COO/Head Chef/Lead Cook to lead our kitchen operations and help us scale.

The COO/Head Chef/Lead Cook is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations, managing staff, ensuring food quality, and maintaining health and safety standards. This role combines culinary skills with operational oversight and leadership, directly impacting the quality of service and customer experience. The position also includes staff recruitment, training, scheduling, and the management of the truck's operations to ensure profitability and customer satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities:

• Kitchen Operations Management: Oversee kitchen staff and ensure the timely, efficient production of food. Maintain operational standards and ensure food quality and consistency.
• Food Safety and Sanitation: Enforce food safety protocols and sanitation standards in compliance with health regulations. Ensure the kitchen is cleaned and maintained at all times.
• Staff Management and Development: Hire, train, and manage kitchen staff. Create a positive work culture, ensuring all team members are properly trained and motivated. Provide continuous learning and development opportunities.
• Menu Development and Innovation: Develop, revise, and test menu items, focusing on quality, seasonal ingredients, and customer preferences. Maintain consistent quality control.
• Inventory and Supply Management: Manage inventory levels, order supplies, and minimize waste while ensuring the availability of fresh ingredients.
• Customer Relations: Address customer concerns and feedback to ensure satisfaction. Uphold the reputation of the business by maintaining high service standards.
• Operational Oversight: Manage kitchen operations during service hours, including overseeing food production and ensuring the efficient operation of the truck.
• Performance and Cost Tracking: Monitor food costs, waste, and overall operational efficiency. Suggest and implement improvements to maximize profitability.
• Problem Solving and Adaptability: Respond to kitchen equipment issues, manage staffing problems, and adapt to operational challenges during high-demand periods.
• Opening and Closing Duties: Ensure proper setup and breakdown of the truck for each shift.
• Risk Management: Handle situations involving rowdy customers or other safety concerns to maintain a safe, positive environment for staff and patrons.
• Scheduling and Staff Coordination: Create work schedules, ensuring adequate coverage for peak hours.
• Onboarding and Learning & Development: Oversee the onboarding process for new hires and ensure ongoing staff development.

Working Conditions:

• Ability to stand for long periods and work in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs for food supplies and equipment.
• Work shifts will include evenings, weekends, and some holidays to accommodate the truck's schedule and customer demand.

How to Apply: Interested applicants are invited to submit their resume and a brief cover letter to fuelfiesta.net outlining their relevant experience and why they are a good fit for the COO/Head Chef/Lead Cook role. Fiesta Fuel Taco Truck is an equal-opportunity employer.

• Competitive hourly wage, plus tips.
• Overtime pay.
• Paid time off (PTO) and additional full-time benefits.
• A minority stake in the company (10-20%) based on performance.
• Free meals during shifts.
• Flexible scheduling and opportunities for career advancement.

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, Chef, or Operations Manager in the food service industry.
• Strong leadership skills with experience managing small teams in high-pressure environments.
• Extensive knowledge of food safety standards and compliance with health regulations.
• Strong organizational skills, able to manage multiple responsibilities at once.
• Ability to manage inventory, control costs, and minimize waste.
• Problem-solving abilities and adaptability in a fast-paced kitchen setting.
• Excellent communication skills with both kitchen staff and customers.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.