Executive Chef - Lead Menu Innovation & High-Volume Kitchen

Hef's Hut Bar & Grill; Vernon (NJ); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary & bonuses

Full benefits package (health, dental,

Opportunities for professional growth

Job summary

Hef’s Hut Bar & Grill at Great Gorge Golf Club in Vernon, NJ is seeking an Executive Chef to lead our kitchen, craft menu direction, and drive quality and consistency across all dishes.

The role requires a strong leadership style, ability to manage food costs and staff, ensure health/safety standards, and mentor a high-energy culinary team in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or senior culinary leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of menu development, food costing, and kitchen management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.
• ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain).

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and update menus that reflect Classic American Fare with creativity and quality.
• Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, presentation, and consistency.
• Manage food costs, inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and lead kitchen staff to build a strong, cohesive team.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations at all times.
• Maintain quality control standards across all dishes and services.
• Collaborate with management on pricing, specials, and promotions.
• Create and manage staff schedules to ensure proper kitchen coverage.
• Foster a positive, high-energy kitchen culture that inspires creativity and teamwork.

Skills

Executive leadership

Menu development

Food costing

Kitchen management

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

ServSafe certification

Job description

Location: Hef's Hut Bar & Grill at Great Gorge Golf Club
414 County Rd 517, Vernon NJ 07462

About Us:
Hef's Hut Bar & Grill located at Great Gorge Golf Club is a vibrant and welcoming establishment known for its exceptional service, Classic American Fare, and a diverse selection of beverages. We pride ourselves on creating a memorable experience for our guests, and we're looking for a passionate Executive Chef to lead our kitchen team in Vernon, NJ!

Job Summary:
Do you have a knack for menu innovation, a drive for quality, and a strong leadership style? As Executive Chef, you'll take ownership of our kitchen operations, culinary direction, and team development, helping us take our food program to the next level while maintaining the highest standards of quality and consistency.

Responsibilities:

• Design, develop, and update menus that reflect Classic American Fare with creativity and quality.
• Oversee all kitchen operations, including food preparation, presentation, and consistency.
• Manage food costs, inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and lead kitchen staff to build a strong, cohesive team.
• Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation regulations at all times.
• Maintain quality control standards across all dishes and services.
• Collaborate with management on pricing, specials, and promotions.
• Create and manage staff schedules to ensure proper kitchen coverage.
• Foster a positive, high-energy kitchen culture that inspires creativity and teamwork.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or senior culinary leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of menu development, food costing, and kitchen management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience preferred.
• ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain).

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Comfortable working in a hot, fast-paced kitchen environment.
• Must be able to work flexible hours, including nights, weekends, and holidays.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary and bonuses.
• Full benefits package (health, dental, vision).
• A fun, fast-paced environment where your creativity can truly shine.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.