Sushi Chef / Kitchen Leader

Goodwin Recruiting; Oak Brook (IL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Goodwin Recruiting is seeking an experienced Sushi Chef who will lead the sushi program and serve as a hands-on kitchen leader for a high-volume, upscale restaurant in Oak Brook, IL. The role focuses on running the sushi program while contributing to broader kitchen operations, including scheduling, inventory, food costs, and ordering.

The ideal candidate is ready to grow into a larger leadership role with a clear path to executive-level responsibility.

Qualifications

• Strong sushi/raw bar experience in a high-volume or upscale setting.
• Proven ability to lead and develop others.
• Working knowledge of food costs, inventory, ordering, and kitchen controls.
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and comfortable with a leadership track.
• Availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Lead the sushi program and maintain consistent quality and presentation standards.
• Supervise and develop team members on the line.
• Assist with scheduling, inventory management, and ordering.
• Monitor food costs, waste, and portion control.
• Support overall kitchen operations and execution during service.
• Partner with the culinary team on standards and training.

Skills

Sushi expertise

Kitchen leadership

Inventory management

Food cost control

Staff development

Job description

Sushi Chef / Kitchen Leader

Upscale Full-Service Restaurant | Oak Brook, IL

Compensation: $70,000 – $75,000 starting management base, with progression to $80,000 – $85,000 within six months based on performance. Path to Executive Sous Chef for the right candidate.

We are seeking an experienced Sushi Chef who is also a hands-on leader for a high-volume, upscale restaurant in Oak Brook. This is a confidential search. The role involves running the sushi program while contributing to broader kitchen operations, including scheduling, inventory, food cost management, and ordering. The ideal candidate is ready to grow into a larger leadership role.

Responsibilities

• Lead the sushi program and maintain consistent quality and presentation standards
• Supervise and develop team members on the line
• Assist with scheduling, inventory management, and ordering
• Monitor food costs, waste, and portion control
• Support overall kitchen operations and execution during service
• Partner with the culinary team on standards and training

Requirements

• Strong sushi/raw bar experience in a high-volume or upscale setting
• Proven ability to lead and develop others
• Working knowledge of food costs, inventory, ordering, and kitchen controls
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and comfortable with a leadership track
• Availability for evenings, weekends, and holidays

This is a growth opportunity with a clear path to Executive Sous Chef for a candidate who demonstrates strong performance, leadership, and operational ownership. Full details will be shared with qualified candidates.

JOB ID: 182808#post

Kenji Salz