Executive Sous Chef

Boatyard Restaurant - Fort Lauderdale; Fort Lauderdale (FL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 85,000; Full time

Job summary

A high-energy coastal restaurant in Fort Lauderdale is seeking an Executive Sous Chef to lead a large culinary team. The role involves overseeing kitchen operations, ensuring high standards of food quality, and contributing to innovative menu creation. Ideal candidates will have extensive culinary management experience and a passion for contemporary American cuisine focused on seafood.

Benefits

Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Opportunities for growth and advancement

Collaborative kitchen culture

Qualifications

• 5+ years of culinary management experience in high-volume, upscale dining environments.
• Strong foundation in contemporary American cuisine with a coastal/seafood focus preferred.
• Proficiency in modern cooking methods and plating styles.

Responsibilities

• Supervise and motivate a large kitchen staff of 40+ employees.
• Ensure consistent execution of all dishes at a high volume.
• Manage ordering, inventory, and food cost controls.

Skills

Leadership

Culinary Excellence

Organization

Communication

Time Management

Education

Culinary Degree

ServSafe Certification

Job description

Boatyard Restaurantis a high-energy, upscale American coastal concept celebrating bold flavors, modern culinary techniques, and the vibrant bounty of the sea and shore. Our high-volume restaurant is known for delivering exceptional guest experiences with a creative, seasonal menu and a dynamic atmosphere that’s as fun as it is demanding.

Position Summary :

We are seeking a passionate, skilled, and driven Executive Sous Chef to join our leadership team. This individual will play a key role in overseeing daily kitchen operations, managing and mentoring a culinary team of 40+, and contributing to innovative menu development using modern and classic techniques. The ideal candidate thrives under pressure, leads by example, and maintains the highest standards of culinary excellence, organization, and team culture.

Key Responsibilities :

Leadership & Team Management

Supervise and motivate a large kitchen staff of 40+ employees across multiple stations and shifts.

Foster a positive, professional, and high-performance kitchen culture.

Participate in hiring, training, and performance reviews in coordination with the Executive Chef and HR.

Culinary Execution

Ensure consistent execution of all dishes at a high volume with meticulous attention to detail.

Collaborate with the Executive Chef on seasonal menu planning and recipe development.

Utilize modern cooking methods and technology (sous-vide, fermentation, dehydrators, etc.) to elevate offerings.

Operations & Quality Control

Maintain rigorous food safety and sanitation standards.

Oversee prep lists, station assignments, and line checks to ensure operational readiness.

Manage ordering, inventory, and food cost controls in partnership with the purchasing team.

Promote a "work hard, play hard" mentality in the kitchen – balancing fun, creativity, and discipline.

Uphold a standard of excellence and accountability across all shifts and service periods.

Qualifications :

5+ years of culinary management experience in high-volume, upscale dining environments.

Proven track record of leading large culinary teams with professionalism and effectiveness.

Strong foundation in contemporary American cuisine with coastal / seafood focus preferred.

Proficiency in modern cooking methods and plating styles.

Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills.

ServSafe Certification or equivalent; Culinary degree preferred but not required.

What We Offer :

Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses

Health, dental, and vision insurance

Opportunities for growth and advancement within a fast-paced restaurant group

A creative, collaborative kitchen culture where innovation is encouraged

Ready to bring your creativity, leadership, and culinary passion to our coastal kitchen? Apply now and join a team that works hard, cooks boldly, and celebrates excellence every day.

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