Head Chef - The Local

Culinary Leadership & Execution

• Lead daily kitchen operations with a hands-on presence during prep and service.
• Ensure all food is prepared, plated, and executed to established quality and presentation standards.
• Maintain consistency across all menu items, catering functions, and special events.
• Promote the use of seasonal, locally sourced, and high-quality ingredients.

Team Leadership & Development

• Build a positive, accountable kitchen culture.
• Supervise chefs, cooks, prep staff, and dish team members while fostering teamwork and professionalism.
• Hire, train, schedule, and develop the culinary team.
• Lead by example through communication, organization, urgency, and professionalism.

Catering & Operations

• Partner with the Catering Team to execute both on-site and off-site events.
• Cook, prep, and manage catering operations to maintain the same high standards of food quality and consistency.
• Organize kitchen workflow to maximize efficiency during both restaurant and event operations.

Inventory, Cost Control & Compliance

• Manage food ordering, inventory levels, vendor relationships, and kitchen supplies.
• Monitor food cost, waste reduction, and operational efficiencies.
• Maintain all sanitation, food safety, and health department standards.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in culinary leadership positions.
• Background in high-volume restaurant and/or catering operations.
• Passion for scratch cooking, quality ingredients, and consistent execution.
• Demonstrated ability to build and lead strong kitchen teams.
• Excellent communication, leadership, and organizational skills.
• Strong understanding of kitchen systems, labor management, inventory, and food cost controls.
• Culinary degree or relevant professional training preferred.
• Valid North Carolina driver’s license required.
• Must successfully pass a criminal background check and maintain an acceptable driving record.

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand and walk for extended periods throughout shifts.
• Frequent lifting, bending, pushing, pulling, and carrying up to 50 pounds.
• Availability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and event-driven schedules.