Executive Chef

Executive Chef – Part-Time (Opportunity for Full-Time)

ZBest Barbeque Chicken & Ribs

Position Title: Executive Chef

Position Type: Part-Time (with opportunity to transition into a Full-Time leadership role)

Location: Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania

Reports To: Owner / Operations Leadership

Position Summary:

ZBest Barbeque Chicken & Ribs is seeking an experienced, passionate, and highly organized Executive Chef to lead kitchen operations and support the continued growth of one of Pittsburgh’s respected community-based food establishments.

The Executive Chef will oversee all back-of-house operations including food preparation, kitchen management, staff supervision, inventory control, quality assurance, scheduling, customer satisfaction, and fiscal accountability. This individual must be able to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining the high-quality food and customer experience ZBest is known for.

This position is currently part-time with strong opportunity for advancement into a full-time executive leadership role as business operations expand.

About ZBest Barbeque Chicken & Ribs:

ZBest Barbeque Chicken & Ribs is a family-operated restaurant with deep roots in the Pittsburgh community and a strong, loyal customer base that has supported the business for years. Known for its flavorful barbeque, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to serving the community, ZBest has built a reputation as a trusted neighborhood destination for great food and authentic hospitality. The restaurant takes pride in creating a family-oriented environment for both customers and staff while continuing to grow its brand through quality service, catering opportunities, and community engagement initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Kitchen & Culinary Operations:

• Lead all food preparation and kitchen production activities.
• Ensure consistency, quality, taste, and presentation of all menu items.
• Maintain high standards for food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness.
• Monitor portion control and minimize food waste.
• Assist with menu planning, specials, and recipe standardization.
• Ensure kitchen operations meet local health department regulations.

Staff Leadership & Management:

• Train, schedule, and motivate kitchen staff.
• Create a positive, team-oriented work environment.
• Support employee performance and productivity.
• Assist with hiring, onboarding, and disciplinary actions when necessary.
• Ensure staff adhere to company policies and kitchen procedures.

Inventory & Purchasing:

• Manage food inventory levels and kitchen supplies.
• Conduct regular inventory counts and maintain accurate records.
• Coordinate purchasing and vendor relationships.
• Monitor food costs and control kitchen expenses.
• Ensure timely ordering to meet operational demands.

Sales Growth & Business Development:

• Support the growth and profitability of ZBest Barbeque Chicken & Ribs through strategic sales and promotional efforts.
• Assist with identifying and promoting catering opportunities for corporate events, family gatherings, community events, and special occasions.
• Help develop and promote catering packages, family meal packages, and seasonal menu offerings.
• Encourage upsell opportunities including side dishes, desserts, beverages, sauces, and specialty items.
• Collaborate with ownership on special promotions and revenue-generating initiatives.
• Assist with creating high-margin menu items and customer incentive offerings.
• Support customer retention efforts by helping maintain high-quality food and service standards.
• Contribute ideas that increase repeat business, customer engagement, and brand visibility.
• Participate in community events and promotional activities when needed to help expand the ZBest brand.
• Help position the restaurant for long-term growth and expanded business opportunities throughout the Pittsburgh region.

Fiscal & Operational Oversight:

• Understand and manage restaurant cost controls.
• Monitor labor costs, food costs, and operational efficiency.
• Assist ownership with budgeting and profitability goals.
• Meet production deadlines and service timelines.
• Support operational planning for catering and special events.

Customer Service & Brand Representation:

• Maintain high customer satisfaction standards.
• Address customer concerns professionally and promptly.
• Support the restaurant’s reputation for quality and community engagement.
• Assist in maintaining a welcoming and professional environment.

Qualifications:

Required Qualifications:

• Minimum of 4 years of kitchen management or Executive Chef experience.
• Strong leadership and team management skills.
• Experience managing inventory, purchasing, and food costs.
• Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
• Knowledge of restaurant operations and fiscal responsibilities.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience in BBQ, Soul Food, Catering, or High-Volume Restaurant Operations
• ServSafe Certification or equivalent food safety certification.
• Experience with scheduling systems and restaurant POS systems.
• Catering and event production experience.
• Passion for community-centered business operations.

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

Compensation & Benefits:

• Competitive compensation based on experience.
• Opportunity for growth into a full-time leadership position.
• Flexible scheduling.
• Opportunity to help shape and grow an established community brand.
• Potential performance incentives based on operational growth.

Ideal Candidate Profile:

The ideal candidate is a strong culinary leader who understands both the art of cooking and the business of running a successful restaurant. This individual should be dependable, solution-oriented, fiscally responsible, and committed to excellence in food quality, staff leadership, and customer service.

Candidates who value community engagement, mentorship, and helping grow a respected local brand are strongly encouraged to apply.

How To Apply:

Interested candidates should submit:

• Resume.
• Brief cover letter.
• References.
• Certifications (if available).