Executive Chef

Executive Chef – Chick's Oyster Bar

Virginia Beach | Waterfront | High-Energy Kitchen

The Opportunity

Chick's Oyster Bar is looking for a hands-on, high-level Executive Chef to lead one of the most iconic, fast-paced waterfront kitchens in Virginia Beach. This is not a clipboard-chef role — we're looking for a leader who thrives on the line, in the action, and takes pride in running a tight, motivated kitchen that turns out crave-worthy food day after day.

If you love seafood, scratch cooking, volume, and leading a strong crew, this is a chance to put your stamp on a beloved local brand with serious energy and loyal guests.

What You'll Do

• Lead, inspire, and manage a large, fast-moving kitchen team, setting the tone for professionalism, teamwork, and pride
• Oversee menu development and execution, ensuring consistency, quality, and alignment with the Chick's brand
• Be actively involved in daily food preparation and service, maintaining high standards for flavor, presentation, and speed
• Manage ordering, inventory, and food costs while minimizing waste and maximizing efficiency
• Ensure strict adherence to food safety, sanitation, and health department standards
• Coordinate and execute high-volume services, private events, banquets, and catering with precision and creativity
• Train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff, creating a culture of growth and accountability
• Collaborate with ownership and management on budgeting, scheduling, systems, and continuous improvement
• Maintain a visible, hands-on presence in the kitchen — leading from the front, not the office

What We're Looking For

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or senior kitchen leader in high-volume restaurants, seafood-forward concepts, or catering/banquet environments
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate, coach, and retain a diverse culinary team
• Deep knowledge of food production, menu planning, food safety, and kitchen operations
• Experience managing inventory, labor, and food costs in a fast-paced setting
• Ability to balance creativity with consistency and operational excellence
• Comfortable managing multiple services, special events, and seasonal menu shifts
• Passion for hospitality, teamwork, and delivering food guests come back for again and again

Why Chick's

• Iconic waterfront restaurant with a loyal local following
• High-energy environment where great food meets great vibes
• Opportunity to lead a large, established kitchen and truly make it your own
• Supportive ownership and management team that values leadership and execution
• A role where your impact is seen — by the team, the guests, and the community

If you're a strong culinary leader who loves a busy kitchen, great people, and the challenge of running food at a high level every day, we'd love to meet you.Join our team as an Executive Chef to lead culinary excellence while inspiring your team to deliver memorable dining experiences.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $70,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Food provided
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Retirement plan
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person