Pitt Master

Dayton Barbecue Co. is seeking an experienced and dependable Pitmaster to oversee the preparation, seasoning, smoking, and finishing of our barbecue meats. The Pitmaster is responsible for maintaining consistent product quality, proper cooking techniques, food safety standards, and efficient pit operations.

This is a hands-on position that requires strong knowledge of barbecue preparation, temperature control, timing, and fire management. The ideal candidate takes pride in producing consistent, high-quality barbecue while working effectively with the kitchen team to support daily restaurant operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare, season, trim, and portion meats according to Dayton Barbecue Co. recipes and standards.
• Operate and monitor smokers, pits, grills, thermometers, and related cooking equipment.
• Monitor cooking temperatures, smoke levels, cooking times, and meat quality throughout the cooking process.
• Maintain consistency in flavor, tenderness, appearance, and portion sizes.
• Plan and manage long cooking times to ensure adequate product is available for daily service and events.
• Adjust cooking times and techniques based on meat size, weather conditions, pit temperature, and service volume.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, temperature-control, and food-handling requirements.
• Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary pit, prep, and storage areas.
• Properly clean and maintain smokers, pits, grills, tools, and equipment.
• Communicate with kitchen management regarding prep levels, product needs, and service requirements.
• Work closely with kitchen and front-of-house team members to maintain an efficient service flow.
• Assist with other kitchen duties as assigned by management.

Qualifications

• Previous Pitmaster, barbecue, or professional kitchen experience required.
• Strong knowledge of smoking techniques, meat preparation, cooking temperatures, and fire management.
• Knowledge of different meat cuts and appropriate cooking methods.
• Understanding of food safety and sanitation standards; ServSafe certification is a plus.
• Strong knife skills, including trimming, portioning, and slicing meats.
• Ability to work independently while also functioning effectively as part of a team.
• Strong time-management and organizational skills.
• Ability to work in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment for extended periods.
• Reliable, punctual, and committed to maintaining consistent quality.
• Ability to lift 50+ pounds and perform the physical requirements of the position.
• Availability to work early mornings, evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events as needed.

Preferred Skills

• Time Management: Ability to plan ahead and manage long cooking times to meet daily production and service needs.
• Attention to Detail: Consistently monitor meat temperatures, doneness, smoke levels, and product quality.
• Knife Skills: Ability to safely and accurately trim, portion, and slice meats.
• Mechanical Aptitude: Comfortable operating, cleaning, and performing basic troubleshooting on smokers, grills, thermometers, and related equipment.
• Adaptability: Able to adjust cooking methods based on weather, meat variations, equipment conditions, and business volume.
• Teamwork: Communicates effectively with kitchen staff, management, and front-of-house employees.
• Cleanliness & Professionalism: Maintains a clean and organized work area and represents Dayton Barbecue Co. professionally.

Pay: $17.00 - $19.00 per hour

Expected hours: 25.0 – 35.0 per week

Benefits:

• Employee discount
• Flexible schedule
• Opportunities for advancement

Work Location: In person