Lead Line Cook

Buddy and Son | New York, NY

Buddy and Son is a seasonal, neighborhood-driven brasserie located inside PUBLIC Hotel on Manhattan’s Lower East Side. Our cooking is ingredient-focused, technique-driven, and rooted in warm, genuine hospitality.

We are seeking an experienced Lead Line Cook to help oversee daily kitchen execution and set the standard for consistency, organization, and professionalism on the line. This is a hands-on cooking position for someone who leads by example, communicates clearly, and takes pride in developing a strong kitchen team.

• Prepare and execute dishes according to the restaurant’s recipes, specifications, and presentation standards
• Lead service from an assigned station and help coordinate timing across the line
• Support the Chef de Cuisine and Sous Chefs with daily kitchen operations
• Assist with station assignments, line checks, prep lists, and service readiness
• Maintain consistency in seasoning, cooking technique, portioning, and presentation
• Train and support line cooks, prep cooks, and new team members
• Communicate shortages, quality concerns, and equipment issues to kitchen leadership
• Receive, inspect, label, date, rotate, and properly store ingredients
• Minimize waste and assist with responsible inventory management
• Maintain a clean, organized, and fully stocked station throughout service
• Follow all food-safety, sanitation, allergen, and Department of Health requirements
• Help maintain a respectful, focused, and collaborative kitchen culture
• Participate in menu tastings, staff training, and pre-service meetings

• At least 2–3 years of professional line-cook experience in a high-volume, full-service restaurant
• Previous experience as a lead line cook, station lead, or senior cook preferred
• Strong foundational cooking skills and knowledge of proper kitchen technique
• Ability to work multiple stations and maintain composure during busy service
• Strong organizational, communication, and time-management skills
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining high standards
• Comfortable giving direction, receiving feedback, and supporting the development of others
• Working knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and allergen procedures
• NYC Food Protection Certificate preferred
• Ability to stand for extended periods and safely lift up to 50 pounds
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as required

The right candidate is a skilled and disciplined cook who understands that leadership begins with preparation, consistency, and attitude. You should be equally comfortable executing your own station, supporting the cooks around you, and stepping forward when the kitchen needs direction.

Buddy and Son is an equal-opportunity employer. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace and consider all qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other legally protected characteristic.