Head Chef

**Job Title: Head Chef**

**Overview**: We are seeking a talented and experienced Head Chef to lead our culinary team at our bustling from scratch café & market located in the heart of Old Wethersfield. Sourcing from several local farms and growers, we serve breakfast and lunch six days a week and dinner on Thursdays, Fridays and Saturdays. We also cater many events in house and offer options for people to pick up off premise catering as well. The Head Chef will be responsible for overseeing all aspects of kitchen operations, from menu planning and food preparation to quality control and staff management.

We offer competitive salary, health benefits and a balanced work / life schedule. If you are a creative culinary professional with proven leadership skills and a passion for delivering exceptional food experiences, we invite you to join our team.

**Responsibilities**:

- **Menu Development and Planning**:
*Develop innovative and seasonally inspired menus that reflect the culinary vision and concept of the market/café. *Design dishes that highlight fresh, locally sourced ingredients and appeal to a diverse range of tastes and dietary preferences. *Stay abreast of culinary trends and industry developments to continuously update and refine the menu offerings.
- **Food Preparation and Execution**:
*Oversee all aspects of food preparation, ensuring dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality, taste, and presentation. *Lead by example in the kitchen, demonstrating culinary expertise and precision in cooking techniques and plating. *Train and mentor kitchen staff in proper cooking methods, portion control, and food safety procedures.
- **Kitchen Management**:
*Manage kitchen operations, including staffing, scheduling, and inventory management, to ensure smooth and efficient workflow. *Maintain cleanliness and organization in the kitchen, adhering to sanitation standards and food safety regulations. *Monitor inventory levels and order supplies as needed, optimizing inventory turnover and minimizing waste.
- **Quality Control and Assurance**:
*Conduct regular quality checks on ingredients and finished dishes to uphold our standards of excellence. *Implement quality control measures to ensure consistency in flavor, texture, and presentation across all menu items. *Address any issues or concerns related to food quality or service promptly and professionally.
- **Team Leadership and Development**:
*Provide strong leadership and direction to kitchen staff, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. *Inspire and motivate team members to excel in their roles, recognizing and rewarding their contributions. *Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing training and development opportunities to support staff growth and career advancement.

**Qualifications**:
*Proven experience as a Head Chef or Sous Chef in a similar culinary environment, with a track record of success in menu development and kitchen management. *Culinary degree or equivalent professional certification preferred. *Extensive knowledge of culinary techniques, ingredients, and flavor profiles, with a passion for creativity and innovation. *Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to effectively delegate tasks and provide constructive feedback. *Excellent organizational and time management abilities, with a keen attention to detail. *Flexibility to work varied shifts *Food handler's permit or certification in food safety and sanitation.

Available shifts and compensation: We have available shifts all days of the week. Compensation depends on your experience.

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