Executive Chef/Chef de Cuisine

Job Description

Job Description

Exciting new opportunity at a BRAND NEW restaurant!

An established, growing chef-driven restaurant group is seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead culinary operations at a high-volume, fine-dining establishment. This is a senior leadership opportunity for a hands-on culinary professional with strong knowledge of restaurant operations, a passion for exceptional food and hospitality, and a proven track record of leading successful kitchen teams.

The Executive Chef will oversee the overall kitchen operation and serve as a key liaison between culinary and front-of-house leadership. The ideal candidate brings extensive knowledge of multiple cuisines and culinary techniques, strong business acumen, and the ability to balance culinary excellence with financial and operational performance.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, execution, presentation, and service
• Develop and evolve menus using seasonal ingredients while aligning with guest preferences and the restaurant's culinary vision
• Ensure consistent execution of recipes, quality standards, and presentation
• Oversee purchasing, procurement, inventory, and vendor relationships
• Manage food and labor costs, minimize waste, and identify opportunities to improve profitability
• Review and manage P&L performance, budgets, forecasts, and operating expenses
• Develop, manage, and maintain kitchen budgets
• Recruit, train, mentor, and lead culinary team members, including chefs and cooks
• Partner closely with restaurant management and front-of-house leadership to ensure a seamless guest experience
• Collaborate on special events, promotions, and culinary initiatives
• Maintain strict food safety, sanitation, and health standards
• Monitor and control operating expenses, including food, linen, supplies, and other kitchen-related purchases
• Utilize restaurant technology and management systems to support efficient operations

Qualifications & Skills

• 5–10+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience, including Executive Chef or comparable experience in a high-volume and/or fine-dining environment
• Extensive knowledge of culinary techniques, flavor profiles, menu development, and food presentation
• Demonstrated ability to lead, develop, and motivate a culinary team
• Strong understanding of restaurant financials, budgeting, forecasting, labor, and food cost management
• Proven ability to manage expenses and operate within a declining or controlled budget
• Excellent communication, organization, and interpersonal skills
• Creative and innovative approach to menu and recipe development
• Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment while maintaining attention to detail
• Experience with restaurant management systems such as Restaurant365, Toast, and HotSchedules preferred
• Ability to work effectively in varying temperatures and conditions, including exposure to heat, steam, smoke, and confined spaces
• Strong sensory awareness and ability to assess food quality, taste, texture, temperature, presentation, and preparation
• Willingness to travel between locations and support occasional outdoor events as needed

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, including shifts of 8+ hours
• Ability to lift and carry up to 25 lbs.
• Frequent movement, bending, reaching, and other physical activity required
• Ability to effectively monitor and respond to guest and team needs in real time
• Comfortable working occasional outdoor events in varying weather conditions
• Ability to work effectively in a professional kitchen environment

Compensation & Benefits

Salary: $130,000–$150,000

Benefits include:

• Health insurance
• Dental insurance
• Vision insurance
• Paid time off
• Paid training
• Employee discount

Equal Opportunity Employer

We are committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace and encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply. Employment decisions are made in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local nondiscrimination laws.

The Restaurant Zone is a leading hospitality recruitment agency specializing in connecting top-tier talent with restaurants, hotels, and hospitality groups across the United States. We partner with growing brands and established operators to deliver high-quality candidates for management, executive, and specialized roles. Our team combines industry expertise, a vast candidate network, and a results-driven approach to help businesses build strong, reliable teams. At The Restaurant Zone, we focus on speed, quality, and long-term fit—ensuring both clients and candidates succeed.

Company Description

The Restaurant Zone is a leading hospitality recruitment agency specializing in connecting top-tier talent with restaurants, hotels, and hospitality groups across the United States. We partner with growing brands and established operators to deliver high-quality candidates for management, executive, and specialized roles. Our team combines industry expertise, a vast candidate network, and a results-driven approach to help businesses build strong, reliable teams. At The Restaurant Zone, we focus on speed, quality, and long-term fit—ensuring both clients and candidates succeed.