Assistant Culinary Manager

About Kona Brewing Hawaii

Kona Brewing Hawaiʻi is an independent, island-born craft brewery headquartered in Kailua-Kona on Hawaiʻi Island, with an additional pub in Hawaiʻi Kai on Oʻahu. Founded in 1994, the brewery is known for creating Hawaiʻi-inspired beers that reflect the islands’ spirit and natural beauty, served fresh across its local pubs and restaurants throughout the state. The team focuses on sustainability, community connection, and living aloha every day, offering a welcoming, growth-minded workplace for people who love great beer and Hawaiʻi.

Ready to Grow Your Culinary Leadership Career? Join a Kitchen That Cares.

We’re looking for an Assistant Culinary Manager who’s ready to step up, support the team, and grow into a strong kitchen leader. This role is perfect for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, loves developing people, and takes pride in delivering consistently great food. You’ll partner closely with the Culinary Manager to keep the kitchen running smoothly while helping build a culture where people and food both shine. The compensation for this position will be between $55,000-$62,000 per year.

What You'll Actually Do

Support the Team (and the Line)

• Assist in leading day-to-day kitchen operations alongside the Culinary Manager
• Step into a leadership role during shifts, ensuring smooth execution and strong communication
• Help coach, train, and support kitchen team members so they can succeed and grow
• Lead or support pre-shift “take a knee” meetings that keep the team informed and energized

Execute with Excellence

• Ensure recipes, plating, and specs are followed with consistency and quality
• Monitor ticket times, food quality, and kitchen flow during service
• Support inventory, ordering, and prep systems to keep the kitchen dialed in
• Jump in wherever needed, you’re not above any station

Help Drive the Business

• Assist with food cost controls, waste management, and inventory accuracy
• Support scheduling and labor management efforts
• Partner with the Culinary Manager on menu execution and continuous improvement
• Maintain high standards for cleanliness, food safety, and sanitation

Build the Culture

• Model our Purpose and Values every day through your actions
• Be a positive, approachable presence in the kitchen
• Help create a team environment where people feel respected, supported, and motivated
• Act as a bridge between team members and leadership

Who You Are

The Must-Haves:

• Solid culinary or restaurant experience in a high-volume environment
• Basic computer skills (Word, Excel, Outlook)
• Strong communication and teamwork skills
• English fluency and solid math skills (Spanish is a plus)
• Ability to work a flexible schedule and handle the physical demands of the kitchen

The You-Haves:

• You lead by example and take pride in your work
• You’re eager to grow into a stronger leadership role
• You stay calm under pressure and keep the team focused
• You communicate with respect, even in high-stress moments
• You’re reliable, accountable, and willing to learn

Why You'll Love Working With Us
At Kona Brewing, you’re not just part of a kitchen, you’re part of a team that values growth, collaboration, and genuine hospitality. You’ll gain hands-on leadership experience while working alongside people who care deeply about great food, great beer, and a great workplace. We also have medical, dental and 401K benefits along with great perks like 40% off all merch, food and beer.

Ready to Join Us?
If you’re ready to grow your career, support an incredible team, and be part of something meaningful, we want to hear from you. Apply today and let’s build something great together.