Head Chef - The Empanada Lady (Baltimore, MD)

Job Description

Job Description

Position Overview

The Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring consistency in food quality, managing costs, leading the team, and maintaining high standards during service.

This role requires strong communication and collaboration, working directly with the owner and front-of-house team, while also being hands-on in the kitchen and able to execute during service.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and manage BOH team with clear direction and accountability
• Train, coach, and develop kitchen staff
• Set the tone for professionalism, urgency, and teamwork
• Hold staff accountable to standards and performance

Food Quality & Execution

• Cook on the line and lead by example during service
• Ensure all food is executed consistently and to recipe
• Maintain plating and portion standards
• Oversee prep, line execution, and service flow
• Ensure the kitchen meets ticket times and maintains speed without sacrificing quality

Food Cost & Inventory Control

• Manage and maintain target food cost percentages
• Oversee ordering, inventory, and waste reduction
• Track usage and adjust ordering based on business needs

Labor Management & Scheduling

• Create and manage schedules for the entire BOH team
• Staff appropriately for daily service, off-site events, and catering
• Control labor cost while maintaining efficiency

Vendor Relations & Ordering

• Negotiate with vendors for best pricing and quality
• Place and manage orders with accuracy and consistency
• Maintain strong vendor relationships

Menu Development & Innovation

• Contribute to menu development and seasonal items
• Bring creative ideas while staying aligned with brand identity
• Maintain consistency with The Empanada Lady flavors and standards

Operations & Systems

• Use a laptop for daily operations including emails, scheduling, and communication
• Manage BOH communication through email and digital tools
• Implement and maintain kitchen systems and organization
• Ensure cleanliness, food safety, and compliance standards

Communication & Collaboration

• Work directly with the owner on operations, performance, and strategic growth
• Maintain consistent communication with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth service
• Align BOH and FOH on reservations, large parties, catering, and service flow
• Participate in meetings and provide updates on kitchen performance and needs

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of kitchen experience (leadership experience preferred)
• Experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to step into leadership
• Strong understanding of food cost, labor cost, and kitchen operations
• Experience with scheduling, inventory, and ordering systems
• Comfortable using a laptop, email, and digital tools for daily operations
• Ability to lead a team in a fast-paced environment
• Ability to work the line efficiently and maintain ticket times during high-volume service
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Passion for culture-driven food and hospitality

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods
• Ability to lift 35 lbs or more
• Ability to work nights, weekends, and high-volume shifts

Company Description

The Empanada Lady is a culture-driven restaurant and catering brand rooted in Puerto Rican heritage, bold flavors, and intentional hospitality. Founded in Baltimore, the brand has grown from humble beginnings into a recognized name known for delivering both quality food and a memorable guest experience.

We specialize in high-volume service, catering, and community-centered events, with a strong focus on consistency, efficiency, and execution. Our team operates in a fast-paced environment where standards are high and accountability is expected across all roles.

As we continue to expand, our focus remains on building strong systems, developing leadership within our team, and creating opportunities for growth both inside and outside of the kitchen. The Empanada Lady is committed to preserving culture, elevating the guest experience, and operating with purpose in everything we do.

Company Description

The Empanada Lady is a culture-driven restaurant and catering brand rooted in Puerto Rican heritage, bold flavors, and intentional hospitality. Founded in Baltimore, the brand has grown from humble beginnings into a recognized name known for delivering both quality food and a memorable guest experience.\r\n\r\nWe specialize in high-volume service, catering, and community-centered events, with a strong focus on consistency, efficiency, and execution. Our team operates in a fast-paced environment where standards are high and accountability is expected across all roles.\r\n\r\nAs we continue to expand, our focus remains on building strong systems, developing leadership within our team, and creating opportunities for growth both inside and outside of the kitchen. The Empanada Lady is committed to preserving culture, elevating the guest experience, and operating with purpose in everything we do.