Head Chef

Mel & Faye's Diner is seeking a skilled and passionate Head Chef to lead kitchen operations and deliver high-quality meals. The successful candidate will oversee menu preparation, supervise kitchen staff, maintain food quality and consistency, manage inventory, and ensure compliance with food safety standards. The ideal candidate will demonstrate strong leadership, creativity, and the ability to work efficiently in a busy restaurant environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• Oversee daily kitchen operations and food preparation.
• Plan menus and develop new dishes when required.
• Prepare and cook meals according to restaurant standards.
• Supervise, train, and motivate kitchen staff.
• Assign kitchen duties and coordinate work schedules.
• Maintain consistent food quality, taste, and presentation.
• Monitor portion sizes and ensure recipe consistency.
• Manage food inventory, stock levels, and ingredient ordering.
• Coordinate with suppliers to maintain ingredient availability.
• Control food costs and minimize waste.
• Ensure proper food storage, labeling, and rotation.
• Maintain kitchen cleanliness and sanitation standards.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and health regulations.
• Monitor kitchen equipment and report maintenance needs.
• Coordinate with restaurant management and service staff.
• Manage food preparation during busy service periods.
• Monitor staff performance and maintain kitchen discipline.
• Review customer feedback and improve food quality where needed.

Qualifications & Skills:

• Previous experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, or senior kitchen professional.
• Strong cooking skills and knowledge of menu preparation.
• Experience leading and training kitchen teams.
• Knowledge of food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards.
• Understanding of inventory management and food cost control.
• Ability to plan menus and manage ingredient requirements.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Excellent organization and time-management abilities.
• Ability to work under pressure during busy service periods.
• Attention to detail and commitment to food quality.
• Problem-solving skills and a professional attitude.
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.

Pay: $23.00 - $28.00 per hour

Expected hours: 32.0 per week

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Food provided
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Referral program
• Retirement plan
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person