Chef

Job Description

Job Description

Job Title: Chef
Location: Hackensack, NJ
Job Type: Full-Time

We are looking for a talented and passionate Chef to lead the kitchen of a contemporary, upscale dining concept in Hackensack, NJ. The ideal candidate will be experienced in creating high-quality dishes, managing kitchen operations, and leading a team to maintain the highest standards of food preparation, presentation, and cleanliness. This is an exciting opportunity for a Chef who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is eager to contribute to the growth and success of a distinguished dining experience.

Key Responsibilities:

• Menu Creation & Innovation: Develop and design seasonal menus, ensuring a balance of creativity, quality, and cost-efficiency. Continuously innovate to keep the menu fresh and exciting while maintaining brand identity

• Kitchen Management: Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and quality control, ensuring consistency in taste, presentation, and service

• Staff Leadership: Lead, train, and manage the kitchen team, ensuring they are properly skilled and motivated to deliver excellent culinary experiences. Foster a positive, collaborative environment

• Inventory & Ordering: Manage inventory levels, order supplies, and control food costs. Track product usage and minimize waste through proper inventory management and portion control

• Health & Safety Compliance: Ensure the kitchen operates in compliance with all local health and safety regulations, including food safety standards, cleanliness, and sanitation procedures

• Quality Control: Monitor food quality throughout service, ensuring that each dish meets the highest standards and is consistently executed to perfection

• Collaboration: Work closely with front-of-house staff to ensure seamless communication and coordination between the kitchen and dining area

• Staff Development: Identify opportunities for team development, providing ongoing training and mentorship to elevate the skills of kitchen staff

• Cost Management: Oversee food cost management, labor costs, and budget adherence to meet or exceed financial goals and profitability targets

• Guest Experience: Play a key role in enhancing the overall dining experience, from the quality of food to the speed and presentation, ensuring each guest leaves satisfied

Qualifications:

• 5+ years of culinary experience, with at least 2+ years in a leadership role (e.g., Sous Chef, Executive Chef, or Kitchen Manager)

• Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, kitchen management, and food safety standards

• Experience creating and executing creative and high-quality menus for fine dining or upscale casual restaurants

• Proven ability to lead and manage a kitchen team effectively, promoting a culture of teamwork and excellence

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate with both kitchen and front-of-house staff

• Ability to work under pressure in a high-volume, fast-paced environment while maintaining attention to detail and quality

• Strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously

• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays as required

• A passion for food, cooking, and providing an outstanding culinary experience for guests

• Culinary degree or equivalent experience preferred

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary, based on experience

• Health, dental, and vision benefits

• Paid time off and holiday pay

• Employee meal discounts

• Opportunities for professional growth and advancement within the organization

• A dynamic, supportive work environment where creativity and innovation are encouraged

If you’re a talented chef with a passion for culinary excellence and ready to take on a leadership role in a high-caliber dining establishment, we want to hear from you! Email your resume today!