Wood-Fired Italian Kitchen Leader | Sous Chef

Cristian Pietoso Restaurant Group; Cincinnati (OH); On-site; USD 54,000 - 66,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Growth opportunities

Menu development input

Team-driven culture

70% company covered medical, dental, &

Job summary

Forno Osteria and Bar Montgomery is seeking a passionate kitchen manager to join our culinary leadership team. You will work with the Chef de Cuisine to oversee daily kitchen operations, ensure high-quality Italian dishes, and lead a high-performing team in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires strong leadership, a commitment to excellence, and a deep appreciation for wood-fired cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food safety standards, with evenings and weekend availability.

Qualifications

• 2+ years of experience in a leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of Italian cuisine and wood-fired cooking techniques preferred.
• Proven ability to lead a team in a high-volume environment.
• Solid understanding of food cost control and kitchen operations.
• Current food safety certification (or ability to obtain).
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Assist the CDC in managing all back-of-house operations.
• Lead and supervise line cooks and prep staff during service.
• Ensure consistency, quality, and execution of all menu items.
• Maintain smooth communication between front and back of house.
• Step in to lead the kitchen in the CDC's absence.
• Oversee preparation and presentation of dishes to meet standards.
• Ensure proper recipe adherence, portion control, and plating consistency.
• Monitor food quality, freshness, and waste control.
• Contribute to seasonal menu development and daily specials.
• Train, mentor, and coach kitchen staff.
• Foster a positive, professional, and team-oriented work environment.
• Assist in hiring and onboarding new culinary team members.
• Promote accountability and uphold performance standards.
• Assist with inventory management, ordering, and cost control.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety and sanitation standards.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen.
• Support labor management and scheduling as needed.

Skills

Leadership

Team leadership

Italian cuisine

Wood-fired cooking

High-volume service

Food cost control

Food safety cert

Flexible schedule

Job description

Forno Osteria and Bar Montgomery is seeking a passionate kitchen manager to join our culinary leadership team. You will work with the Chef de Cuisine to oversee daily kitchen operations, ensure high-quality Italian dishes, and lead a high-performing team in a fast-paced environment.

The role requires strong leadership, a commitment to excellence, and a deep appreciation for wood-fired cooking, seasonal ingredients, and food safety standards, with evenings and weekend availability.