Principal Taquero (Kitchen Manager)

Principal Taquero 

The Principal Taquero is the Back-of-House leader in the taqueria. This role is responsible for leading the kitchen team, ensuring consistent execution of all Tacombi recipes and standards, maintaining food safety and cleanliness, and driving a culture of accountability and respect. The Principal Taquero reports directly to the Managing Partner and is a key partner in delivering excellent food quality and guest experiences.

Key Responsibilities 

Culinary Leadership & Execution 

• Lead daily BOH operations, ensuring consistent execution of all recipes and menu items to Tacombi standards.

• Oversee prep, cooking, and service to guarantee quality, freshness, and timeliness.

• Take ownership of food safety and sanitation, ensuring compliance with all standards and regulations.

Team Leadership & Development 

• Uphold high standards of food quality, cleanliness, and teamwork.

• Lead by example, fostering a respectful and professional kitchen culture.

• Provide clear direction and feedback to the team, holding individuals accountable for performance.

Operational Responsibilities 

• Conduct regular line checks and quality checks throughout service.

• Maintain BOH organization, cleanliness, and equipment care.

• Perform weekly inventory counts accurately and on time.

• Share inventory results with the Managing Partner to set par levels and assist with ordering needs.

• Support the Managing Partner with implementation of operational initiatives and process improvements.

Collaboration & Communication 

• Work closely with the Managing Partner on BOH performance, staffing and operational priorities.

• Serve as the BOH point of contact for the taqueria, escalating issues when needed.

Skills & Qualifications 

• Proven kitchen leadership experience (lead line cook, sous chef, or equivalent).

• Strong cooking skills with ability to execute and teach all Tacombi recipes.

• Knowledge of food safety regulations and commitment to best practices.

• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.

• Ability to lead, motivate, and hold a team accountable.

• Bilingual (English/Spanish) preferred.

Key Performance Indicators 

• BOH team consistently delivers high-quality food, on time, and to spec.

• Kitchen is clean, organized, and operating safely at all times.

• Inventory is completed accurately each week and communicated effectively.

• Team is motivated, well-trained, and respects the leadership of the Principal Taquero.

• Collaboration with the Managing Partner is strong, aligned, and solution-oriented.

Physical Expectations

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods during shifts.

• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs regularly and occasionally up to 50 lbs, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Ability to bend, stoop, and reach overhead as needed for kitchen operations.

• Comfortable working in environments with heat, humidity, and cold storage, with or without reasonable accommodation.

• Adequate vision, hearing, and manual dexterity to supervise food quality, safety, and handle kitchen tools, with or without reasonable accommodation.

Tacombi is dedicated to fostering an inclusive workplace environment where all individuals have equal opportunities. We value talent, skills, and potential, and strive to create an atmosphere that promotes diversity and equality.