Position Summary:
We are seeking a talented and visionary Executive Chef to lead our culinary operations within a dynamic grocery store environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in scratch cooking, menu development, team leadership, and retail-ready food production. You will be responsible for overseeing all prepared foods, hot bar, deli, bakery collaborations, grab-and-go offerings, and seasonal culinary initiatives, ensuring quality, consistency, and profitability.
Key Responsibilities:
Menu Development & Innovation
- Create seasonal, trend-driven menus for hot bar, salad bar, deli, and grab-and-go sections.
- Develop recipes that are scalable, cost-effective, and meet dietary/lifestyle needs (e.g., vegan, gluten-free).
Operational Leadership
- Supervise all culinary operations, including food prep, presentation, sanitation, and service.
- Train and manage kitchen staff, line cooks, and prep teams.
- Ensure compliance with food safety standards (FDA, local health codes, HACCP).
Cross-Department Collaboration
- Partner with store managers, bakery, meat, and produce departments to drive culinary synergies.
- Support marketing and in-store promotions with culinary events and sampling programs.
Cost & Quality Control
- Monitor food cost, labor cost, and shrink to meet or exceed department goals.
- Maintain high-quality standards for ingredients, production, and presentation.
Customer Engagement
- Act as a culinary ambassador for the store—engage with customers and provide culinary advice and tastings.
- Respond to customer feedback and adapt offerings accordingly.
Qualifications:
- Proven experience as an Executive Chef or high-level Sous Chef, preferably in a retail or foodservice environment.
- Culinary degree or equivalent experience required.
- Strong knowledge of current food trends, global flavors, and special diets.
- Experience with cost control, inventory systems, and staff scheduling.
- Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
- ServSafe or equivalent food safety certification required.
Physical Requirements:
- Ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 lbs.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen setting.
- Flexible schedule, including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
Benefits:
- Competitive salary + performance-based bonuses
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and holidays