Senior Wok Chef

Altius Search Group LLC; Costa Mesa (CA); On-site; USD 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent Asian fusion restaurant is seeking a highly skilled Senior Wok Chef to lead execution at the wok station in a fast-paced kitchen. Ideal candidates will have 5+ years of experience in high-volume settings, demonstrating mastery in wok techniques and effective communication skills. This role entails preparing signature dishes, maintaining quality standards, and collaborating closely with kitchen leadership to ensure efficient service. The position demands a disciplined, passionate chef ready to excel in a dynamic culinary environment.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience working a wok station in high-volume Asian or Asian fusion kitchens.
• Strong understanding of wok techniques and heat control.
• Ability to work efficiently in a high-pressure service environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead the wok station during lunch and dinner service.
• Prepare and cook dishes using traditional and modern wok techniques.
• Maintain a clean, organized workstation and follow health standards.

Skills

Wok technique

Heat control

Stir-fry cooking

Knife skills

Teamwork

Communication

Education

Food Handler or ServSafe certification

Job description

Our client, a modern Asian fusion restaurant is seeking a highly skilled Senior Wok Chef to lead execution at the wok station in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen. This role is ideal for a culinary professional with deep experience in high-heat wok cooking who can deliver consistent flavor, speed, and precision during peak service.

The Senior Wok Chef will play a critical role in executing signature dishes, maintaining the integrity of sauces and recipes, and ensuring efficient ticket flow during busy service periods. This chef must demonstrate mastery of wok technique, heat control, and timing, while maintaining high standards of quality and presentation.

Wok Station Leadership

• Lead the wok station during lunch and dinner service.
• Execute stir-fry dishes using high-heat wok techniques while maintaining consistency and speed.
• Maintain the signature flavor profile and integrity of sauces, broths, and seasonings.
• Ensure proper timing and coordination with other stations to maintain smooth service flow.

Culinary Execution

• Prepare and cook dishes using traditional and modern wok techniques.
• Demonstrate mastery of wok hei (breath of the wok) to achieve authentic flavor and texture.
• Maintain consistent plating, portioning, and quality standards.
• Monitor product quality and freshness of proteins, vegetables, and sauces.

Prep & Mise en Place

• Oversee mise en place for the wok station including proteins, vegetables, and sauces.
• Ensure proper portioning and organization to support high-volume service.
• Assist with recipe adherence and food cost control.

Team Collaboration

• Work closely with the Executive Chef and Sous Chefs to maintain kitchen standards.
• Support training of line cooks and junior wok cooks.
• Communicate effectively with expediters and kitchen leadership during service.

Kitchen Standards

• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe workstation.
• Follow all health, safety, and sanitation standards.
• Support kitchen operations and assist other stations when needed.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience working a wok station in high-volume Asian or Asian fusion kitchens.
• Strong understanding of wok techniques, heat control, and stir-fry cooking.
• Ability to work efficiently in a high-pressure service environment.
• Strong knife skills and ingredient preparation knowledge.
• Experience with Asian sauces, aromatics, and seasoning balance.
• Excellent teamwork and communication skills.
• Food Handler or ServSafe certification preferred.

Preferred Experience

• Experience in modern Asian or Asian fusion restaurants.
• Knowledge of Vietnamese, Chinese, or Southeast Asian flavor profiles.
• Experience working in upscale or chef-driven dining environments.

Ideal Candidate

• Fast, disciplined, and highly organized.
• Passionate about mastering wok technique and flavor development.
• Calm and efficient during peak service.
• Team-oriented with strong work ethic and reliability.