Head Pitmaster & Culinary Leader: BBQ Innovation

Sonny’s BBQ; Winter Park, Northern (FL, KY); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 170,000; Full time

Job summary

Sonny's BBQ is seeking a Culinary Chef & Head Pitmaster to lead the culinary vision, drive menu innovation, and elevate pitmaster excellence across the system. You will shape the future of Sonny's by blending barbecue craft with brand storytelling and operational excellence.

This role combines leadership across operations, marketing, and training, and requires a passion for coaching culinary talent. You will represent Sonny's at events and help guide the brand's culinary voice.

Qualifications

• 8+ years of culinary leadership or corporate chef experience.
• Expertise in barbecue, smoking techniques, and pitmaster craftsmanship.
• Strong understanding of restaurant operations, food costing, and menu execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, testing, and refinement of new menu items and limited-time offerings.
• Identify emerging BBQ trends and techniques to keep Sonny's relevant.
• Oversee culinary testing, recipe development, and food safety standards across the system.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Barbecue & pitmaster expertise

Menu development

Food costing & operations

Public speaking & brand representation

Mentoring culinary talent

Education

Culinary degree

Job description

Sonny's BBQ is seeking a Culinary Chef & Head Pitmaster to lead the culinary vision, drive menu innovation, and elevate pitmaster excellence across the system. You will shape the future of Sonny's by blending barbecue craft with brand storytelling and operational excellence.

This role combines leadership across operations, marketing, and training, and requires a passion for coaching culinary talent. You will represent Sonny's at events and help guide the brand's culinary voice.