Head Chef in Fort Wayne, Indiana at Tailwind Deli News & Gifts Inc

At the Hop River Restaurant in Fort Wayne Airport, we blend globally inspired cuisine with an approachable, modern dining experience. We are currently seeking a Chef who is passionate about food, driven by excellence, and ready to lead a talented back-of-house team in a fast-paced, chef-driven environment.

The Chef will oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring high standards in food quality, team leadership, sanitation, and financial performance. This is a hands-on leadership role ideal for someone who thrives under pressure, leads with integrity, and brings energy and innovation to every shift.

Area of responsibility include, but are not limited to:

• Oversee all kitchen operations, including preparation, service, food quality control, and adherence to sanitation and safety standards
• Collaborate closely with the Front of House and Beverage teams to deliver seamless service and exceptional guest experiences
• Manage food and labor costs through effective scheduling, budgeting, inventory control, and vendor relations
• Design and implement seasonal menus, production systems, and plating standards consistent with brand guidelines
• Hire, train, coach, and schedule kitchen staff; provide ongoing performance management to cultivate a culture of accountability, growth, and culinary excellence
• Ensure full compliance with federal, state, and local health regulations, maintaining required staff certifications and rigorous sanitation practices
• Provide hands-on leadership during service, supporting food preparation, final plating, and guest engagement as needed
• Monitor and maintain all kitchen equipment, coordinating repairs and replacements as necessary
• Maintain impeccable cleanliness, organization, and food safety protocols across all kitchen and storage areas
• All other duties as assigned, planned or un-planned

Skills:

• Demonstrated success in leading back-of-house teams and effectively managing kitchen financials, including food and labor costs
• Extensive technical expertise across all culinary disciplines
• In-depth knowledge of kitchen equipment, advanced knife skills, and strict adherence to food safety and sanitation protocols
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and conflict resolution abilities; adept at building cohesive, high-performing teams
• Clear and effective communicator with exceptional organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills

Requirements:

• 2+ years of kitchen or BOH management experience in a high-volume dining environment
• Food Safety Certification required
• Must be able to pass all required background checks

Benefits:

• Paid training
• Paid time off
• Health, dental and vision
• 401k with company matching

Tailwind Concessions is an equal-opportunity employer committed to creating a diverse and inclusive work environment. We do not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex (including pregnancy, gender identity, and sexual orientation), parental status, national origin, age, disability, genetic information (including family medical history), political affiliation, military service, or other non-merit based factors. We provide reasonable accommodations for individuals with disabilities in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). If you require any accommodations during the application process, please contact our HR department at recruiter@tailwindconcessions.com.