Manager - Executive Chef/Kitchen

Executive Chef / Kitchen ManagerJoseph's Classic Market is known for fresh, made-from-scratch prepared foods crafted daily with care. Our Executive Chef / Kitchen Manager leads the heart of our Prepared Foods operation — ensuring every recipe is executed with precision, every standard is upheld, and every guest receives the quality they expect. From hot bar and grab-and-go to catering and seasonal menus, this role sets the tone for excellence in execution, food safety, and team performance.Growth & Learning at Joseph'sAt Joseph's Classic Market, we believe in growing leaders from within. As Executive Chef / Kitchen Manager, you'll have the opportunity to shape menus, develop culinary talent, and drive operational excellence. You'll expand your leadership skills in food cost control, labor management, production planning, and multi-department collaboration. Many of our leaders grow within the company, and we value those who bring both structure and creativity to their role.Key ResponsibilitiesCulinary Operations Supervise daily production of all prepared foods including hot bar, grab-and-go, soups, salads, entrees, and cateringEnsure all recipes are followed accurately and consistently, maintaining Joseph's quality standardsMaintain proper portioning, ingredient prep, cooking times, and food presentationSchedule production to meet sales forecasts and peak traffic timesOversee special menus for holidays and eventsFood Safety & Sanitation Enforce strict adherence to food safety regulations (e.g., ServSafe, HACCP, temperature logs)Maintain clean and organized prep areas, coolers, and storage areasMonitor and document hot/cold holding temperatures, cooling procedures, and shelf lifeLead weekly deep-cleaning and sanitation schedulesPrepare department for internal audits and health inspectionsInventory & Cost Control Order ingredients and supplies from approved vendors based on par levels and menu planningMaintain organized inventory systems for dry goods, fresh ingredients, and prepared itemsTrack usage and minimize food waste through effective prep and repurposing plansManage food cost targets and labor productivityMonitor catering supply inventory and coordinate with front-end teamsTeam Leadership Hire, train, and lead cooks, prep staff, and kitchen portersProvide ongoing coaching and feedback; conduct performance reviewsMonitor department attendance and ensure associates adhere to scheduled shifts and company timekeeping policies, addressing any attendance or punctuality concerns promptly and consistentlyFollow up on performance or attendance issues with proper documentation and corrective action when necessary, including disciplinary action forms, notes to file, and Performance Improvement Plans (PIPs) to support accountability and improvement within the departmentLead daily pre-shift huddles with culinary teamFoster a culture of accountability, pride, and teamworkCatering & Guest Service Oversee production and packaging of catering orders (corporate, events, holidays)Ensure accuracy, presentation, and on-time readiness of all catered foodRespond to last-minute catering changes or high-volume demands professionallySupport customer service team with product knowledge and cross-department coordinationReporting & Communication Submit weekly production, waste, and labor reports to Store ManagerParticipate in department head meetings and seasonal menu planningCommunicate clearly with deli, bakery, meat, and grocery teams for product planningDevelop prep guides, batch logs, and training materials for new team membersQualificationsMinimum 3 years of leadership experience in culinary/kitchen environments (preferably in retail or catering)Culinary degree or food service certification preferredServSafe or food safety certification or willingness to obtainStrong knowledge of food safety, kitchen operations, and recipe executionBilingual English/Spanish requiredAbility to lift 50 lbs, stand for long hours, and work in hot/cold conditionsExcellent communication, time management, and leadership skillsFlexible availability including weekends, holidays, and eveningsPhysical & Work EnvironmentThis role operates primarily in a fast-paced kitchen and retail food environment. Work includes standing for extended periods, exposure to heat, refrigeration, wet floors, and heavy kitchen equipment. The schedule includes early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays. Frequent interaction with team members and department leaders is expected.Why Join Joseph's Classic Market?Joseph's Classic Market is known for its fresh, high-quality prepared foods made from scratch daily. As Kitchen Manager, you'll be part of a passionate team committed to tradition, taste, and excellence. We value your creativity, leadership, and dedication to bringing comfort and flavor to every guest experience.Benefits Include:Positive Work EnvironmentCompetitive PayHealth, Dental and Vision Insurance401(k) PlanPaid Time Off & Personal Days20% Employee Discount