Autonomous Operations Lead - Los Angeles

Who we are 

CloudKitchens helps restaurateurs around the world succeed in online food delivery - our goal is to make food more affordable, higher quality and convenient for everyone. 

We take underutilized properties and transform them into smart kitchens so they can better serve restaurateurs, customers and the neighborhoods they’re in. Every time we launch a new facility we create jobs in that neighborhood, and we’re proud to provide a wide range of cuisines and options for healthy food at an affordable price.

We're changing the game for restaurateurs whether they’re entrepreneurs opening their first restaurant all the way through to your favorite global quick-service restaurant chains.  

What you’ll do

The Pilot Program Lead oversees the on-site execution of an innovative autonomous food robotics pilot within a live restaurant environment. This role leads a team of four, ensures operational excellence, and serves as the primary point of ownership during assigned shifts. The position partners closely with the Operations Manager and cross-functional teams (Engineering, Product, Culinary) to drive performance, reliability, and continuous improvement.

Key Responsibilities

Operational Ownership

• Lead daily execution of the robotics pilot during service
• Supervise, coach, and support a team of 4 team members
• Ensure food quality, service standards, and safety compliance
• Maintain a strong floor presence and intervene when needed

Robot Monitoring & Troubleshooting

• Monitor robot performance and production flow in real time
• Troubleshoot minor operational or mechanical interruptions
• Escalate technical issues appropriately
• Document downtime and performance trends

KPI & Performance Management

Own and improve key pilot metrics, including:

• Order Defect Rate (ODR)
• Avoidable Robot Downtime
• Assembly Time
• Avoidable Cancellation Rate
• Store Availability

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Provide structured operational feedback to Engineering and Product
• Participate in pilot reviews and iteration planning
• Communicate clearly across teams to align on expectations and outcomes

What we’re looking for

• 3+ years of restaurant or food service leadership experience
• Experience supervising frontline teams
• Strong operational mindset in fast-paced environments
• Comfortable working in a startup or pilot setting
• Ability to troubleshoot equipment and resolve issues independently
• Strong communication and collaboration skills

Why join us 

• Demand for online food delivery is growing really fast! In the last 5 years, just in the US, the overall market has expanded 10X from $10B to $100B, and could expand to $500bn- $1T by 2030.
• Changing the restaurant industry: You’ll be part of a team that helps restaurants succeed in online food delivery. 
• Collaborative environment: You will receive support and guidance from experienced colleagues and managers, helping you to learn, grow and achieve your goals, and you’ll work closely with other teams to ensure our customer’s success.

What else you need to know 

Pay: $ 25/28 hr. 

Benefits Summary:

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance (multiple plans, incl. HSA options)
• Company-paid life and disability insurance (short- and long-term)
• Voluntary insurance: accident, critical illness, hospital indemnity
• Optional supplemental life insurance for self, spouse, and children
• Pet insurance discount (Fetch)
• 401(k) 
• Health Savings Account (HSA)
• Flexible Spending Accounts (Healthcare, Dependent Care, Commuter)
• Time Off policies 
• Paid Vacation Time (1h for every 26h worked)
• 8 paid holidays per year
• Paid sick time 
• Paid Bereavement leave
• Paid Parental Leave.

Benefits are subject to change at the company's discretion.
CSS accepts applications on an ongoing basis.

Ready to join us as we serve those who serve others? 

#LI-Onsite