Executive Chef Kitchen Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Are you ready to lead the culinary charge at one of Lake Country’s most vibrant lakeside destinations? Smoke on the Water is seeking a passionate, creative, and experienced Executive Chef to helm our kitchen and bring bold flavors to life. Nestled on the sunny shores of Okauchee Lake, we specialize in scratch-made dishes, smoked meats, and unforgettable dining experiences—all served up with great vibes and a strong sense of community.

About Us

Smoke on the Water isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a destination. Whether it’s locals boating in for a meal, families gathering for a special occasion, or live music setting the stage for a perfect night out, we deliver an atmosphere where strangers become friends and friends become family. Our food is as much about the experience as it is about the ingredients—fresh, high-quality, and crafted with care.

The Role

As our Executive Chef / Kitchen Manager you’ll take the reins of our culinary program, leading a talented kitchen team to maintain the highest standards of quality, consistency, and creativity. You’ll have the opportunity to design specials, develop new menu items, and put your personal stamp on a beloved local favorite. Your expertise will ensure smooth operations, cost management, and an efficient, high-energy kitchen.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead & Inspire – Manage and mentor a hardworking kitchen team, fostering a culture of teamwork, efficiency, and passion for great food.

• Menu & Culinary Creativity – Oversee menu execution, develop innovative daily specials, and ensure top-notch quality in every dish.

• Scratch-Made Excellence – Maintain high standards in our scratch kitchen, ensuring adherence to recipes, prep lists, and proper smoking techniques. (If you’re new to smoking, we’ll train you!)

• Operations & Cost Control – Manage food costs, inventory, ordering, and waste reduction to ensure efficiency and profitability.

• Scheduling & Staffing – Create effective schedules that align with business needs and maintain labor budgets.

• Catering & Special Events – Lead kitchen operations for our private events and special occasions, delivering an unforgettable experience for guests.

• Leadership - Team player willing to work alongside teammates in the kitchen when needed.

• Lake Vibes & Customer Satisfaction – Work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure seamless service, happy guests, and a kitchen that thrives in our lively, high-energy atmosphere.

What We’re Looking For

• 5+ years of experience leading a full-service kitchen.

• ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain).

• Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills.

• Passion for scratch-made food and high-quality ingredients.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality and consistency.

• Knowledge of food costing, inventory management, and scheduling.

• Experience with smoked meats, BBQ, and catering is a plus—but if you’re a great chef willing to learn, we’ll train you!

What We Offer

• Competitive Pay – Based on experience, skills and past results..

• Work-Life Balance – Flexible scheduling in a fun, supportive environment.

• Creative Freedom – The chance to create and execute your own culinary vision.

• A Beautiful Workplace – Enjoy coming to work every day at a lakeside gem, surrounded by great people and great food.

• Free Meals & Perks – Because every great chef deserves a great meal!

• Growth Potential – Be part of a growing, community-loved restaurant with room to evolve your career.

Join the Smoke on the Water Family!

If you’re a dedicated chef with a passion for exceptional food and a love for lake life, we want to hear from you. Apply today by submitting your resume and cover letter. Let’s create something amazing together at Smoke on the Water!

\nCompany Description

Our philosophy at Smoke On The water is to proudly deliver a quality customer experience in a fun and friendly atmosphere, while working together to provide our team members with personal and professional growth opportunities. Because of this philosophy, it is critical that all team members understand the importance of excellent guest service. All of our positions, whether back of house, management, or front of house require a friendly personal and a willingness to interact and provide fun, professional and friendly guest service. Guests are not our only customers; fellow team members are our internal customers as well. By joining the Smoke On The Water team, you are committing yourself to these values and acknowledging your dedication to providing excellent guest service for our guests and our internal team, at all times

Company Description

Our philosophy at Smoke On The water is to proudly deliver a quality customer experience in a fun and friendly atmosphere, while working together to provide our team members with personal and professional growth opportunities. Because of this philosophy, it is critical that all team members understand the importance of excellent guest service. All of our positions, whether back of house, management, or front of house require a friendly personal and a willingness to interact and provide fun, professional and friendly guest service. Guests are not our only customers; fellow team members are our internal customers as well. By joining the Smoke On The Water team, you are committing yourself to these values and acknowledging your dedication to providing excellent guest service for our guests and our internal team, at all times