Lead Chef/Kitchen Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Benefits:

• Bonus based on performance
• Free food & snacks
• Opportunity for advancement

Vincent's Deli is looking for an experienced, motivated, and creative Lead Chef to oversee our fast-paced kitchen. This is a hands-on leadership position for someone who thrives under pressure, takes pride in producing exceptional food, and enjoys leading a team to success.

$1,000 signing bonus after 120 days
We're looking for someone who is passionate about quality, organization, consistency, and creating exciting weekly specials that keep our menu fresh and our guests coming back.

Responsibilities:

• Lead all daily kitchen operations and ensure smooth service during busy lunch and dinner periods.
• Cook and work all stations as needed, including grill, flat top, sauté, fryer, pantry/cold side, and expo .
• Create and execute weekly lunch and dinner specials , including menu planning, costing, and presentation.
• Train, mentor, and motivate kitchen staff while maintaining high performance standards.
• Schedule and manage kitchen employees to ensure proper staffing levels.
• Maintain consistent food quality, portion control, and presentation standards.
• Monitor food inventory, place orders, and minimize waste while controlling food costs.
• Ensure all recipes and menu items are prepared consistently.
• Enforce all health department regulations, food safety procedures, and sanitation standards.
• Oversee kitchen cleaning schedules and preventative maintenance of all equipment.
• Ensure the kitchen remains clean, organized, and inspection-ready at all times.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and communicate maintenance needs promptly.
• Work closely with ownership to develop seasonal menu items, improve kitchen operations, and increase profitability.
• Maintain a positive, professional, and team-oriented work environment.
• Step into any station when needed and lead by example during high-volume service.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience as a Lead Chef, Executive Sous Chef, Kitchen Manager, or Head Chef preferred.
• Strong knowledge of grilling, sautéing, frying, flat top cooking, and high-volume line production.
• Proven leadership and staff management experience.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure.
• Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen operations.
• Experience with inventory management, food costing, and ordering is preferred.
• Creative mindset with the ability to develop profitable and exciting weekly specials.
• Reliable, dependable, and committed to maintaining high standards every day.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay based on experience.
• Full-time, year-round employment.
• Creative freedom to develop weekly specials and contribute to menu development.
• Supportive ownership that values new ideas and teamwork.
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact in a well-established, growing restaurant.

If you're a strong leader who takes pride in running an organized kitchen, inspiring a team, and creating outstanding food every day, we'd love to hear from you.