Lead Chef/Kitchen Manager

Job Description

Job Description

Vincent's Deli is looking for an experienced, motivated, and creative Lead Chef to oversee our fast-paced kitchen. This is a hands-on leadership position for someone who thrives under pressure, takes pride in producing exceptional food, and enjoys leading a team to success.

We're looking for someone who is passionate about quality, organization, consistency, and creating exciting weekly specials that keep our menu fresh and our guests coming back.

Responsibilities:

• Lead all daily kitchen operations and ensure smooth service during busy lunch and dinner periods.
• Cook and work all stations as needed, including grill, flat top, sauté, fryer, pantry/cold side, and expo .
• Create and execute weekly lunch and dinner specials , including menu planning, costing, and presentation.
• Train, mentor, and motivate kitchen staff while maintaining high performance standards.
• Schedule and manage kitchen employees to ensure proper staffing levels.
• Maintain consistent food quality, portion control, and presentation standards.
• Monitor food inventory, place orders, and minimize waste while controlling food costs.
• Ensure all recipes and menu items are prepared consistently.
• Enforce all health department regulations, food safety procedures, and sanitation standards.
• Oversee kitchen cleaning schedules and preventative maintenance of all equipment.
• Ensure the kitchen remains clean, organized, and inspection-ready at all times.
• Troubleshoot equipment issues and communicate maintenance needs promptly.
• Work closely with ownership to develop seasonal menu items, improve kitchen operations, and increase profitability.
• Maintain a positive, professional, and team-oriented work environment.
• Step into any station when needed and lead by example during high-volume service.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience as a Lead Chef, Executive Sous Chef, Kitchen Manager, or Head Chef preferred.
• Strong knowledge of grilling, sautéing, frying, flat top cooking, and high-volume line production.
• Proven leadership and staff management experience.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills.
• Ability to multitask and remain calm under pressure.
• Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen operations.
• Experience with inventory management, food costing, and ordering is preferred.
• Creative mindset with the ability to develop profitable and exciting weekly specials.
• Reliable, dependable, and committed to maintaining high standards every day.

What We Offer:

• Competitive pay based on experience.
• Full-time, year-round employment.
• Creative freedom to develop weekly specials and contribute to menu development.
• Supportive ownership that values new ideas and teamwork.
• Opportunity to make a lasting impact in a well-established, growing restaurant.

If you're a strong leader who takes pride in running an organized kitchen, inspiring a team, and creating outstanding food every day, we'd love to hear from you.