Chef in Ithaca, New York at ITH Hospitality

About the Role:

As a Chef, you will be the creative and operational leader responsible for delivering exceptional culinary experiences that delight guests and uphold the highest standards of quality and presentation. You will oversee all aspects of food preparation, ensuring that every dish meets the restaurant’s standards for taste, appearance, and safety. This role requires you to develop innovative menus that reflect current culinary trends while accommodating dietary needs and preferences. You will manage kitchen staff, coordinate food service operations, and maintain strict adherence to food safety regulations to create a seamless and efficient kitchen environment. Ultimately, your leadership and culinary expertise will drive customer satisfaction and contribute to the establishment’s reputation for fine dining excellence.

Pay Structure:

• Competitive annual salary or hourly structure offered based on experience, knowledge and ability to lead team independently.

Benefits:

• Up to 56 hours of paid sick time at management pay rate; unused hours convert to additional paid vacation time.
• Affordable health and dental insurance available, with employer contributions.
• Ability to rotate weekends off in coordination with the management team to ensure peak coverage is successfully maintained.
• Eligible for 401(k) plan after one year of employment, with 100% employer match up to 4% of annual earnings.
• Additional paid or unpaid time off available when planned in advance with the management team.

Tools Provided:

• Cell phone (if needed)
• Laptop
• Use of any available company vehicle during working hours for transfers and catering activities

Minimum Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef, or similar culinary leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of food preparation techniques, recipes, and menu development.
• Comprehensive understanding of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Ability to manage and motivate a diverse kitchen team in a fast-paced environment.
• Formal culinary training or certification from an accredited institution.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience working in fine dining or upscale restaurant settings.
• Advanced culinary certifications or specialized training in menu planning and nutrition.
• Proficiency in inventory management and cost control software.
• Demonstrated ability to innovate and adapt menus based on seasonal ingredients and customer feedback.
• Experience with catering or large-scale food service operations.

Responsibilities:

• Plan, develop, and execute diverse menus that balance creativity, cost control, and nutritional value.
• Lead and supervise kitchen staff, including training, scheduling, and performance management to ensure a cohesive team.
• Oversee daily food preparation and presentation to maintain consistent quality and adherence to recipes.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety and sanitation standards, conducting regular inspections and staff training.
• Collaborate with management to manage inventory, order supplies, and control food costs effectively.

Skills:

The required skills such as food preparation, menu planning, and food safety are essential for daily kitchen operations, ensuring that dishes are prepared to exacting standards and served safely. Leadership skills are applied in managing kitchen staff, fostering teamwork, and maintaining high morale during busy service periods. Expertise in menu development allows the chef to create appealing and profitable offerings that attract and retain customers. Knowledge of recipes and fine dining techniques ensures that the culinary output meets the expectations of discerning guests. Preferred skills like inventory management and cost control enhance operational efficiency and contribute to the financial success of the establishment.