Executive Chef: Lead Menu Innovation & Culinary Team

Signatures Restaurant & Event Center; Winona (MN); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health insurance

401(k)

Paid vacation

Job summary

Signatures Restaurant & The Grill seeks an experienced Executive Chef to lead our culinary team and oversee daily kitchen operations. You will develop menus, manage costs, and uphold top quality and safety standards to deliver exceptional dining experiences.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced setting, mentors a team, and drives continuous improvement in food quality and guest satisfaction. Evening/weekend availability required; competitive compensation offered.

Qualifications

• Experience in a professional kitchen with leadership or kitchen management.
• Strong culinary skills and knowledge of food preparation, cooking techniques, and presentation.
• Experience with menu planning, food costing, inventory management, and ordering.
• Excellent leadership, communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and remain composed in a fast-paced environment.
• Knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and applicable health regulations.
• Flexibility to work a schedule that includes evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• ServeSafe Certification or willing to become certified within 90 days of hire date.
• Salary: $60,000–$80,000 annually, based on experience.
• Benefits: Employee health insurance, 401(k), and paid vacation.

Responsibilities

• Oversee daily kitchen operations for Signatures Restaurant & The Grill, ensuring efficient service and consistent food quality.
• Lead, train, schedule, and mentor kitchen staff while fostering a positive, collaborative work environment.
• Develop and execute menus, daily specials, and seasonal offerings that reflect quality, creativity, and guest preferences.
• Ensure all dishes meet established standards for taste, presentation, portion size, and consistency.
• Manage food and labor costs, inventory, purchasing, and vendor relationships to maintain operational efficiency and profitability.
• Maintain high standards of food safety, sanitation, cleanliness, and organization in accordance with applicable health regulations.
• Monitor kitchen performance and implement procedures to improve workflow, productivity, and service.
• Collaborate with restaurant management on menu pricing, promotions, special events, and banquet operations as needed.
• Ensure proper food storage, rotation, and handling to minimize waste and maintain freshness.
• Help create a welcoming, professional kitchen culture built on teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary skills

Menu planning

Inventory management

Food cost control

Food safety knowledge

Communication

Problem solving

Team mentorship

Education

ServSafe Certification

Job description

Signatures Restaurant & The Grill seeks an experienced Executive Chef to lead our culinary team and oversee daily kitchen operations. You will develop menus, manage costs, and uphold top quality and safety standards to deliver exceptional dining experiences.

The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced setting, mentors a team, and drives continuous improvement in food quality and guest satisfaction. Evening/weekend availability required; competitive compensation offered.