Lead Line Cook

Umami Riot was born from a simple idea: pair joyful hospitality with uncompromising craftsmanship. Founded by Chef Tim Cushman and sake expert Nancy Cushman, our restaurants celebrate bold flavor, precision, and a deep respect for Japanese foodways – translated through a distinctly Boston lens. At Umami Riot, we’re not here to follow the rules of hospitality, we’re here to rewrite them – with heart, craft and fearless creativity.

Hojoko is where it all comes to life. A Japanese-inspired tavern fueled by loud music, high energy, and seriously good food. It’s where high-end technique meets low-key fun—wagyu cheeseburgers, spicy ramen, sake bombs—executed with the same precision and care as a fine dining kitchen. We take flavor seriously…everything else, not so much.

We’re looking for a Lead Line Cook who wants more than just a job. This role is for someone who leads by example, sets the pace on the line, and takes pride in helping the entire kitchen succeed. If you thrive in a high-energy environment, love developing others, and know how to execute at a high level during service—read on.

THE GIG (AKA WHAT YOU'LL ACTUALLY BE DOING)

• Leading your station with confidence while helping maintain flow and execution across the kitchen
• Coaching, supporting, and mentoring line cooks through prep, service, and daily operations
• Executing bold, crave-worthy food with consistency, precision, and attention to detail
• Ensuring stations are set up, stocked, organized, and service-ready before every shift
• Maintaining quality, consistency, and presentation standards during high-volume service
• Communicating clearly with chefs and teammates to keep service moving smoothly
• Identifying issues before they become problems and helping the team find solutions in real time
• Upholding food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards at all times
• Assisting with prep production, inventory organization, and daily kitchen responsibilities as needed
• Helping create a positive, accountable kitchen culture where teamwork comes first

THIS ROLE IS A GREAT FIT IF...

• You enjoy leading from the front and setting the standard through your actions
• You stay calm, focused, and solution-oriented when the pressure is on
• You take pride in teaching and developing others
• You care about consistency and understand that details matter
• You communicate well and believe strong kitchens are built on teamwork
• You show up dependable, prepared, and ready to contribute every day
• You want to grow your culinary career within a company that values development and internal promotion

LET’S SET EXPECTATIONS (IN A GOOD WAY)

This is a fast-paced kitchen fueled by movement, heat, music, and momentum. As a Lead Line Cook, you'll be expected to balance strong execution with leadership, helping keep the team organized, motivated, and focused throughout service.

Yes—this is a hands-on role. You'll be on your feet for long shifts, lifting up to 50 lbs., bending, reaching, and moving easily through tight spaces. You'll work with knives, open flames, hot equipment, and a sense of urgency throughout each shift. A disciplined commitment to sanitation, safety, and cleanliness is part of the craft here, and we're committed to providing reasonable accommodations to support individuals in performing the essential functions of the role.

WHY PEOPLE STICK AROUND

• Competitive hourly pay - because your work matters
• Dining discounts across all Umami Riot locations
• Growth that’s real (not just talked about)
• A team culture rooted in respect, creativity, and heart

Pay range is $25 - $30 per hour based on experience

EOE