Chef Manager

Kitchen Manager

Legacy 27 Kitchen & Cocktail
Newark, NJ
Full-Time | Salaried | Leadership Position

This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and enjoys developing people while building strong kitchen systems.

Position Summary

The Kitchen Manager is responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the kitchen, ensuring every dish leaving the kitchen meets Legacy 27's quality and presentation standards. This individual will lead, coach, and hold the kitchen team accountable while maintaining food cost, labor efficiency, sanitation, and operational excellence.

This position reports directly to ownership and works closely with our culinary leadership team.

ResponsibilitiesLeadership

• Lead, motivate, and develop all back-of-house employees
• Foster a culture of accountability, professionalism, and teamwork
• Conduct daily line checks and pre-shift meetings
• Coach and mentor kitchen staff to improve performance
• Assist with interviewing, hiring, onboarding, and training new employees
• Create schedules that support business needs while managing labor costs

Kitchen Operations

• Ensure consistent food quality and recipe execution
• Maintain plating and presentation standards
• Oversee daily prep production and station readiness
• Monitor ticket times and kitchen efficiency
• Ensure recipes are followed consistently
• Maintain organization throughout the kitchen

Inventory & Cost Control

• Manage food inventory and ordering
• Monitor food cost and minimize waste
• Conduct weekly inventory counts
• Build strong relationships with vendors
• Ensure proper receiving and storage procedures

Food Safety & Compliance

• Maintain all Health Department standards
• Ensure ServSafe and sanitation compliance
• Enforce proper food handling procedures
• Maintain cleaning schedules and kitchen organization
• Ensure equipment is properly maintained

Qualifications

• 3+ years of kitchen leadership experience
• Previous Kitchen Manager or Sous Chef experience preferred
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• High-volume restaurant experience
• Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation
• Experience with inventory and food cost management
• Ability to train and develop kitchen staff
• ServSafe Certification preferred
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays

The Ideal Candidate

We're looking for someone who:

• Leads by example
• Is organized and solution-oriented
• Takes ownership without needing constant supervision
• Enjoys developing people
• Values consistency over creativity alone
• Can build systems that create long-term success
• Thrives in a team environment
• Wants to grow with an expanding hospitality company

Compensation & Benefits

• Competitive Salary (Based on Experience)
• Performance-Based Bonus Opportunities
• Paid Time Off
• Earned Sick Leave
• Employee Dining Discount
• Leadership Development Opportunities
• Opportunity for Growth Within Legacy Hospitality Group

Please Note

We are seeking a long-term leader who is committed to helping build a high-performing kitchen and growing with our organization. This role requires a strong commitment to Legacy 27's operations, culture, and standards.

Why Join Legacy 27?

At Legacy 27, we believe great restaurants are built by great people. We're investing in leaders who take pride in their craft, value teamwork, and are excited to help shape one of Newark's premier dining destinations.

If you're ready to lead, inspire, and make an impact, we'd love to hear from you.