Chef/ Kitchen Manager

Job description:

Chef / Kitchen Leader

( Full-service Experience)

BHAWK is built on American grit, hospitality, and craftsmanship - and we're looking for a Chef/Kitchen Leader who lives those values in the way they cook, lead, and show up every day. Our brand is rooted in pride, consistency, and heart. We believe in doing things the right way, honoring the craft, and creating an environment where both guests and staff feel taken care of.

This is not a clipboard role. This is a boots-on-the-ground, sleeves-rolled-up, lead-from-the-front position for someone who wants ownership, accountability, and the chance to build a kitchen culture that lasts. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, take pride in your work, and believe in elevating both people and product, you'll feel right at home here.

About the Role

The Chef/Kitchen Leader will oversee all culinary operations and help shape the future of BHAWK's food program.

You'll be responsible for building a kitchen culture rooted in discipline, teamwork, and pride a kitchen that runs clean, organized, and efficient. You'll work closely with ownership to align menu direction, cost control, and guest experience with the BHAWK mission: serve with heart, work with purpose, and honor the craft.

Key ResponsibilitiesMenu Development & Culinary Direction

• Create and develop menus across multiple service styles
• (BBQ/smoker, casual to elevated dining, buffet to plated service)
• Build recipes, portion guides, and plating standards
• Maintain brand identity while innovating and controlling costs Kitchen Operations & Execution
• Oversee all daily kitchen operations: prep, execution, cleanliness, organization
• Ensure consistent quality, temperature, and presentation of all dishes
• Maintain a safe, efficient, and compliant kitchen environment
• Implement systems that support speed, consistency, and accountability

Inventory, Ordering & Cost Control

• Manage food cost, portioning, and pricing to maintain profitability
• Handle inventory, ordering, and vendor relationships
• Track waste, maintain accurate par levels, and monitor usage

Leadership, Training & Culture

• Train, develop, and mentor kitchen staff
• Hold the team accountable to standards and systems
• Build a culture of pride, respect, and teamwork
• Lead by example - hands-on, present, and solutions-oriented

Collaboration & Alignment

• Work closely with ownership/management to align menu, costs, and operations
• Support events, catering, and special projects
• Communicate clearly and professionally across departments

What We're Looking For Experience & Skills

• Proven experience as a Chef, Kitchen Manager, or similar leadership role
• Strong background in BBQ and smoker cooking
• Experience with both buffet and plated service
• Solid understanding of food costing, inventory, and ordering systems
• Ability to build structure and improve kitchen organization

Qualities That Matter

• Hands-on, reliable, and solutions-oriented
• Strong leadership and communication skills
• High personal standards for cleanliness, organization, and consistency
• Calm under pressure and adaptable to changing needs

What Matters Most at BHAWK

Ownership - You run the kitchen like it's yours.
Pride - You care about the craft, the team, and the guest experience.
Consistency - You build systems that last and uphold them daily.
Teamwork - You elevate the people around you.
American Spirit - Grit, hard work, and hospitality at the core.

At BHAWK, we believe in building something meaningful a place where people feel welcome, where the food reflects the craft behind it, and where the team stands tall behind the work they do. If that resonates with you, we'd love to meet you.

Benefits:

• 401(k)

Work Location: In person