Chef de Cuisine

Overview

Emmer & Rye Hospitality is seeking a Chef de Cuisine to lead our BOH team with creativity, discipline, and a deep respect for hospitality. This role owns day-to-day kitchen operations while driving menu innovation and team development.. As a leader in our culinary environment, you will inspire creativity, foster teamwork, and drive excellence across all facets of food production and restaurant management. Your expertise will help shape our brand's reputation for innovative cuisine and outstanding hospitality.

What you'll do

• Lead menu development with the corporate culinary team; execute new dishes and maintain exceptional quality.
• Set and uphold standards for cleanliness, productivity, expediting, and service flow.
• Train, coach, and mentor an Executive Sous Chef and kitchen team; run structured 30/60/90-day and quarterly check-ins.
• Manage BOH labor scheduling, inventory, purchasing, waste reduction, and controllable expenses to meet budget and KPI goals.
• Partner with Sourcing, Baking, Butcher, Marketing, and Operations on events, photoshoots, and restaurant needs.
• Maintain compliance with company policies and all food safety and sanitation requirements.

What we're looking for

• Passion for food, beverage, and hospitality with a hands-on, lead-from-the-front style.
• Strong communicator, problem solver, and calm operator under pressure.
• ServSafe Manager certified (or able to obtain promptly); TABC certified.
• Ability to work a fast, safe pace, lift up to 45 lbs, and thrive in a 55 hr/week leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the entire kitchen team, including chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff, to ensure smooth daily operations.
• Develop and execute innovative menus that reflect current culinary trends while maintaining consistency and quality.
• Oversee food preparation, cooking, and presentation to meet fine dining standards and customer expectations.
• Supervise food safety practices in compliance with health regulations, including proper handling, storage, and sanitation procedures.
• Manage inventory control and food management processes to minimize waste and optimize costs through effective stock rotation and ordering.
• Coordinate catering events, banquets, and special functions with precision to deliver memorable culinary experiences.
• Implement training programs for staff development in culinary techniques, food service standards, and safety protocols.
• Oversee shift management, ensuring efficient staffing levels and smooth transitions between service periods.
• Collaborate with front-of-house teams to ensure seamless service delivery and guest satisfaction.
• Maintain a focus on continuous improvement by monitoring kitchen performance metrics and implementing best practices.

Skills

• Extensive culinary experience with a strong background in fine dining environments.
• Proven supervising experience leading diverse kitchen teams with a focus on team management and leadership.
• Strong knowledge of banquet operations, catering, and large-scale food production processes.
• Expertise in food safety standards, dietary department protocols, and food handling regulations.
• Skilled in inventory management, inventory control systems, and cost control strategies.
• Exceptional menu planning abilities coupled with creative food presentation skills.
• Experience managing kitchen operations including shift management, food service management, and restaurant experience.
• Proficiency in food industry best practices related to cooking techniques, kitchen management, and hospitality standards.
• Ability to oversee multiple responsibilities such as bartending coordination during events or special occasions.
• Excellent communication skills paired with a passion for fostering a collaborative team environment.

Benefits:

• 3 Weeks PTO annually (15 days)
• 3 Sick Days annually
• $3000 Educational Stipend annually
• Employer Contribution to Health Insurance, $200/month
• 50% discount at all ERHG Restaurants
• 8 Weeks Paid Parental Leave
• Up to 5 days Bereavement Leave
• 5 Year Retention Bonus of $3,000 and 10 Year Retention Bonus of $10,000

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Work Location: In person