Culinary Operations Director – On‑Site, 401k & PTO

Uptown Alley; Chesterfield Court House (VA); On-site; USD 120,000 - 190,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

401k, Roth IRA

Health and vision insurance

Generous paid time off

Work-life balance - Flexible schedule

Paid parental leave

Incentive bonus structure

Professional development

Culture & community events

Job summary

Uptown Alley is seeking a Director of Culinary Operations to lead culinary and kitchen operations across all locations in Virginia. You will drive food quality, menu development, cost control, and guest satisfaction in a high-volume, entertainment-centered environment.

Reporting to the General Manager/Director of Operations, you will manage culinary teams, ensure health and safety standards, and collaborate with management to deliver outstanding experiences for guests while maintaining

Qualifications

• Certifications in food safety and sanitation (ServSafe or Safe Food Handling).
• 5–7 years of experience in professional kitchens, preferably in leadership.
• Desirable - Apprenticeship or culinary training program.
• Desirable - Degree or diploma in culinary arts or related field.

Responsibilities

• Strategic and Financial Management: menu costing and pricing to ensure profitability; monitor food costs and adjust as needed.
• Inventory management and cost control to optimize profitability while maintaining quality.
• Operational Management: oversee day-to-day kitchen operations; supervise staff; ensure cleanliness and organization.
• Health and safety compliance; implement food safety protocols and regular inspections.
• Menu innovation and seasonal promotions to attract guests and align with theme.
• Ensure high-quality food, presentation, and consistency across locations.
• Staff management: train and mentor kitchen staff; create weekly schedules for kitchen/BOH.
• Customer service: drive guest satisfaction through quality and service.

Skills

Advanced culinary skills

Kitchen management

Menu costing and pricing

Communication

Familiarity with culinary trends

Education

ServSafe or Safe Food Handling certification

Culinary degree or diploma

Apprenticeship or culinary training program

Tools

CRM system

Microsoft Office

HRIS platform

Job description

Uptown Alley is seeking a Director of Culinary Operations to lead culinary and kitchen operations across all locations in Virginia. You will drive food quality, menu development, cost control, and guest satisfaction in a high-volume, entertainment-centered environment.

Reporting to the General Manager/Director of Operations, you will manage culinary teams, ensure health and safety standards, and collaborate with management to deliver outstanding experiences for guests while maintaining