THE OPTIMIST EXECUTIVE CHEF – UP TO $120K/yr. + BONUS (Germantown)

The Optimist - Nashville; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 108,000 - 132,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Performance-based raises

Paid time off

Parental leave

Long-term retention bonuses

Holiday time off

Restaurant discounts

Leadership development

Mentorship programs

Job summary

The Optimist is seeking an Executive Chef to lead the culinary team at our Germantown location in Nashville. You will direct day-to-day kitchen operations, oversee production and prep, and drive seafood-focused menus with a commitment to quality and sustainability.

We require 10+ years of culinary progression, including 5 years in senior management. This full-time role offers strong performance-based raises, benefits after 30 days, and a comprehensive package to support growth and guest

Qualifications

• 10+ years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 5 in senior management.
• Experience leading a full culinary team, menu development, costing and training.

Responsibilities

• Direct day-to-day kitchen operations across all areas.
• Lead menu changes, seasonals, and event menus.
• Train line cooks and ensure guest satisfaction.

Job description

THE OPTIMIST EXECUTIVE CHEF – UP TO $120K/yr. + BONUS (Germantown)

• Full-Time

Locations

The Optimist - Nashville
1400 Adams St
Nashville, TN 37208, USA

Description

At Rocket Farm Restaurants, the core philosophy that defines our culture is “We serve the person who is serving the guest.” Our culture is not something we act out on the floor of the restaurant. It starts with how we treat and serve one another in the kitchen – with dignity, respect, and care. We believe there should be no difference in how we treat and serve one another in the kitchen and how we treat and serve our guests in the dining room. We hope you agree and will consider joining us!

The Optimist brings a menu of casual, wood-fired fare to Nashville’s Germantown neighborhood, transporting landlocked Tennesseans coast side to experience fresh, sustainably sourced seafood.

The Optimist is seeking an Executive Chef who is passionate about sustainable, super fresh seafood!

The Executive Chef leads the entire culinary team, directing the day-to-day operations of all areas of the kitchen including production and prep, special events and purchasing and receiving. He/she ensures that all culinary employees maximize efficiency and productivity in order to achieve total guest satisfaction while actively reviewing and evaluating daily guest feedback. The Executive Chef oversees the menu changes and education process to all culinary and service staff and engineers seasonal specials and event menus. Priorities also include directing food production and plating from the pass during service, properly and efficiently training all line cooks and costing menus to meet or exceed the budgeted percentage. He/she must foster an educational environment to develop all culinary staff for future advancement. 10-years of progressive culinary experience preferred, five of which are in senior management, required.

Full benefit eligibilityafter 30-days of employment:

As a valued member of our team, you will also receive:

• A supportive culture and ethical work environment
• Dynamic performance-based raises and promotions
• Paid Time Off, Childbirth Recovery Leave and Parental Leave to support a healthy work-life balance
• Significant Long-term Retention bonuses
• Time off on most major holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
• 50% discount at all Rocket Farm Restaurants - Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville, Houston, Raleigh, and Winter Park
• Rocket Farm University: specialized leadership classes and personalized support for career advancement
• Employee-led Mentorship programs, Advisory Council and Safety Committee

Equal Opportunity Employer
This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws.For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.