Chef / Kitchen Manager

Cunningham Restaurant Group; Fort Wayne (IN); On-site; USD 40,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Join a forward-thinking restaurant group as a Kitchen Manager, where you will lead culinary operations and inspire a team of talented chefs. This role is pivotal in creating innovative menus and ensuring the highest food quality standards across multiple restaurant concepts. You will manage kitchen operations, uphold health regulations, and collaborate on financial targets to maximize profitability. If you are passionate about culinary excellence and thrive in a dynamic environment, this is the perfect opportunity to grow your career in a supportive and inclusive workplace.

Benefits

Medical, dental, and vision insurance

Flexible spending accounts

401(k) with company match

Paid time off

Excellent dining benefits

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Kitchen Manager or similar role in a restaurant.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills are essential.

Responsibilities

• Oversee culinary operations and lead a team of chefs and kitchen staff.
• Manage kitchen operations efficiently, ensuring quality and compliance.

Skills

Culinary Leadership

Team Management

Quality Assurance

Financial Management

Problem-Solving

Education

Culinary Degree

Job description

Since 1997, Mike Cunningham, owner of Cunningham Restaurant Group (CRG), has created an array of unforgettable dining experiences for guests. From its humble beginnings in Brownsburg, Indiana to a growing tri-state restaurant group, CRG represents a steady beat of expansion and innovation fueled by a commitment to community impact. Our vision is reflected in forty restaurants, eighteen concepts, and sustainable, consistent growth.

Job Overview

As a Kitchen Manager, you will be responsible for overseeing the culinary operations within the restaurant. You will lead a team of talented chefs and kitchen staff, ensuring the highest standards of food quality, consistency, and innovation. The Kitchen Manager plays a crucial role in menu execution, kitchen management, and maintaining an efficient and cost-effective kitchen operation.

Key Responsibilities

1. Culinary Leadership
   • Develop and maintain a culinary vision and strategy for each restaurant concept within the company.
   • Create and update menus, ensuring they are on-trend, seasonally relevant, and aligned with each concept's theme and target audience.
2. Team Management
   • Recruit, train, and supervise kitchen staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment.
   • Set clear performance expectations, conduct regular evaluations, and provide constructive feedback for improvement.
3. Quality Assurance
   • Uphold the highest standards of food quality, consistency, and presentation in all our restaurants.
   • Oversee the food preparation process, including quality control, portioning, and plating.
4. Kitchen Operations
   • Manage kitchen operations efficiently, including inventory management, cost control, and wastage reduction.
   • Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations and maintain a clean and organized kitchen.
5. Financial Management
   • Collaborate with the company's management team to set and achieve budget and financial targets.
   • Monitor food costs, purchasing, and pricing strategies to maximize profitability.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as a Kitchen Manager or similar role in a restaurant environment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent training preferred.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills.
• Excellent organizational and problem-solving abilities.
• Knowledge of food cost control and budget management.
• Food safety and sanitation certification is preferred.

Physical Requirements

• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Mobility to move about the kitchen as necessary.
• Ability to lift and carry heavy objects, such as pots, pans, and kitchen equipment.
• Attention to detail and accuracy are essential.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Flexible spending accounts available.
• 401(k) with company match.
• Paid time off.
• Excellent dining benefits.

CRG offers competitive compensation and opportunities for advancement within our restaurants. If you are passionate about delivering outstanding customer service and thrive in a dynamic restaurant environment, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and be part of an exciting dining experience!

At Cunningham Restaurant Group, we embrace diversity and uphold equal opportunities for all. Our commitment to fairness and inclusivity reflects our core values of Connection, Honesty, Ownership, Respect, Fairness, Kindness, and Opportunity. We do not discriminate based on race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. Please join us in fostering an environment where everyone is valued and respected.