Executive Chef — Lead an Elevated Steakhouse Kitchen

Goodwin Recruiting; Hackensack (NJ); On-site; USD 120,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Bonus opportunity

Menu autonomy

Career growth

Ownership support

Elevated dining concept

Job summary

Goodwin Recruiting is seeking an Executive Chef to lead the culinary program for an elevated, modern steakhouse in Bergen County, NJ. This hands-on leader will drive outstanding cuisine, develop strong teams, and optimize operations in a high-volume setting.

The ideal candidate blends steakhouse expertise with a modern culinary perspective, strong financial acumen, and a focus on guest experience.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 2 years of consecutive experience as an Executive Chef.
• Strong background in upscale steakhouse or high-end American cuisine.
• Proven success leading and developing high-performing culinary teams.
• Experience with menu development using seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.
• Strong understanding of food cost, labor cost, inventory, purchasing, and budgeting.
• Experience collaborating with front-of-house leadership and supporting private event operations.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Passion for delivering exceptional guest experiences through outstanding cuisine.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead all back-of-house operations, ensuring exceptional food quality and consistency.
• Develop and execute seasonal menus while maintaining the restaurant's culinary identity.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and develop a high-performing kitchen team.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen organization.
• Partner closely with front-of-house leadership to deliver a seamless guest experience.
• Oversee inventory, purchasing, scheduling, and labor management.
• Control food and labor costs while meeting financial goals.
• Ensure smooth execution during high-volume service and private events.
• Operate the kitchen according to established budgets and financial plans.

Skills

Executive leadership

Menu development

Cost control

Staff training

Food safety

Budgeting

Communication

High-volume service

Job description

Goodwin Recruiting is seeking an Executive Chef to lead the culinary program for an elevated, modern steakhouse in Bergen County, NJ. This hands-on leader will drive outstanding cuisine, develop strong teams, and optimize operations in a high-volume setting.

The ideal candidate blends steakhouse expertise with a modern culinary perspective, strong financial acumen, and a focus on guest experience.