Head Chef/Kitchen Manager

NU3S; New York (NY); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

An exciting new business is seeking a dynamic Head Chef to spearhead the culinary operations of a vibrant Market Café. This role offers an incredible opportunity to shape the kitchen environment and lead a team in a fast-paced setting. As the Head Chef, you will oversee pre-opening operations, manage kitchen staff, and ensure exceptional food quality. With a commitment to excellence and a passion for culinary arts, you will play a crucial role in delivering an unforgettable experience to our guests. If you thrive in a startup atmosphere and are ready to make your mark, this is the perfect opportunity for you!

Benefits

Opportunities for professional growth

Collaborative work environment

Supportive and inclusive workplace

Qualifications

• Proven experience in a leadership kitchen role required.
• Strong expertise in culinary techniques and ingredient sourcing.

Responsibilities

• Oversee pre-opening operations and kitchen setup.
• Lead and supervise kitchen staff for smooth operations.
• Ensure food quality and compliance with health standards.

Skills

Culinary Techniques

Team Leadership

Organizational Skills

Multitasking

Customer Service

Education

ServSafe Food Handling Certification

Job description

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About Us
Welcome to Nu3s, an exciting new business launching soon in Queens, NY! Our unique, multi-faceted business model combines a vibrant Market Café with a state-of-the-art Valet-operated Touchless Bay Carwash and an Auto Care center offering the latest in vehicle diagnostics and services. Located at one of the busiest intersections of Farmers and Merrick Blvd, we’ll offer expertly crafted coffee, tea, shakes, and mouthwatering food combos for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. We are committed to delivering exceptional service, quality, and an unforgettable experience for every visitor.

What We Offer
Opportunities for professional growth and development
A collaborative, supportive, and inclusive work environment
We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for all.

Job Type: Part time position prior to the Grand opening and transition to FT 40 per week
Grand Opening Date: Subject to change - Mid March
Pay: Starting at $24.00 per hour, with potential for higher pay based on experience

Job Overview
Are you an experienced culinary leader looking to make your mark in a new and exciting venture? We’re seeking a Head Chef to help us prepare for the grand opening of our café! Initially, this role is part-time but will transition to full-time upon opening in March/April. The ideal candidate has startup experience and thrives in a fast-paced, evolving environment. You’ll be hands-on in getting our kitchen set up, managing pre-opening operations, and leading the charge for an incredible opening day. If you’re flexible, solution-oriented, and passionate about bringing a concept to life, we’d love to have you on our team!

What You’ll Do:

Pre-Opening Operations:

• Oversee product trials and kitchen testing (rent a kitchen or use ours once set up)
• Assist in kitchen equipment commissioning and setup
• Finalize vendor relationships and ingredient sourcing
• Coordinate inventory management, POS/system training, and menu development

Leadership & Kitchen Management:

• Experience working in a QSR environment
• Lead and supervise kitchen staff, ensuring smooth operations
• Train, mentor, and inspire new team members
• Manage kitchen shifts, workflow, and ensure efficiency
• Enforce kitchen protocols and maintain high standards of quality

Food Preparation & Quality Control:

• Oversee daily food prep and meal assembly
• Ensure consistent taste, portion size, and presentation
• Monitor the quality of dishes and make adjustments as needed

Inventory & Health Compliance:

• Maintain inventory levels, reorder supplies as necessary
• Enforce strict health and safety standards, including food storage, hygiene, and cleanliness
• Track inventory usage and waste to optimize costs

Customer Experience:

• Handle any customer complaints or issues regarding food or service
• Work with front-of-house to ensure timely and accurate order fulfillment

Additional Duties:

• Stay informed about food trends and innovations
• Assist with supplier equipment updates and maintenance
• Take on additional duties as needed to ensure kitchen operations run smoothly

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a cook, chef, or in a leadership kitchen role (Head Chef, Executive Chef, Kitchen Manager, etc.)
• ServSafe food handling certification required
• Strong expertise in culinary techniques, kitchen operations, and ingredient sourcing
• Experience working in high-demand, high-traffic kitchens—preferably in NYC or similar markets
• Startup experience preferred—ability to adapt to a fast-paced, changing environment
• Team leadership skills and a passion for developing others
• Strong organizational skills and multitasking ability
• A deep passion for food and beverage, with a commitment to exceptional quality and service
• Available to work Holidays and weekends