Executive Chef

Location: New York City

Base Salary: $100,000–$110,000

Concept: Chef-Driven/Wood-Fired Cuisine

Reports To: Chef Owner & Head of Operations

Relocation Assistance: No

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations of a dynamic, chef-driven restaurant group focused on exceptional ingredients, thoughtful execution, and collaborative kitchen culture. This role is ideal for a hands-on culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced, detail-oriented environment while maintaining a strong focus on mentorship, operational excellence, and culinary creativity.

The Executive Chef will oversee all kitchen operations, drive menu development, lead and mentor the culinary leadership team, and ensure consistent execution of quality, sanitation, and service standards. The ideal candidate is both highly organized and operationally strong, with a genuine passion for hospitality, team development, and ingredient-driven cuisine.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of kitchen leadership experience within high-quality or chef-driven restaurant environments
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire, mentor, and develop teams
• Excellent organizational and multitasking abilities
• Strong understanding of labor management, food cost controls, and prime cost management
• Experience overseeing scheduling, payroll, inventory, and kitchen administrative systems
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills
• Passion for high-quality ingredients, evolving menus, and operational excellence
• Experience with pizza production and wood-fired cooking techniques preferred
• Food Handler Certification meeting local requirements
• Tech savvy with familiarity using restaurant systems and reporting tools
• Ability to thrive in a collaborative and high-volume environment
• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift 50+ pounds as operationally required

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Operations & Culinary Execution

• Oversee all daily BOH operations to ensure consistency, efficiency, and quality
• Maintain high standards for food preparation, presentation, cleanliness, and organization
• Lead menu and recipe development in collaboration with ownership and leadership teams
• Support seasonal menu changes, specials, and future restaurant openings
• Maintain flexibility to support all stations and operational needs as required
• Drive operational excellence while maintaining quality and consistency during service

Team Leadership & Development

• Recruit, train, mentor, and develop hourly and management culinary staff
• Foster a positive, accountable, and collaborative kitchen culture
• Provide ongoing coaching, feedback, and leadership development opportunities
• Serve as a mentor and role model for emerging leaders within the kitchen team
• Lead by example through active participation in service and daily operations

Financial & Administrative Management

• Manage labor scheduling to meet operational needs while achieving labor targets
• Oversee payroll, inventory management, purchasing, and kitchen reporting
• Support food cost management, waste reduction, and operational efficiencies
• Help drive company objectives through strong execution and operational discipline

Safety, Compliance & Standards

• Ensure strict adherence to all DOH, sanitation, and food safety regulations
• Lead kitchen preparedness for inspections and maintain a safe working environment
• Reinforce consistency in operational procedures and kitchen standards
• Set expectations for safe work habits and cleanliness throughout the operation

Communication & Collaboration

• Maintain clear, professional, and consistent communication with all team members
• Partner closely with FOH leadership to support seamless service execution
• Contribute ideas and solutions that improve workflow, systems, and guest experience

Compensation & Benefits

• Base Salary: $100,000–$110,000 annually
• Discretionary Bonus Program
• Comprehensive Healthcare Benefits
• Paid Time Off
• Growth and advancement opportunities within the organization

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful, and welcoming workplace for all employees and applicants. #AA