THE OPTIMIST EXECUTIVE CHEF – UP TO $120K/yr. + BONUS (Germantown)

About the role

At Rocket Farm Restaurants, the core philosophy that defines our culture is "We serve the person who is serving the guest." Our culture is not something we act out on the floor of the restaurant. It starts with how we treat and serve one another in the kitchen — with dignity, respect, and care. We believe there should be no difference in how we treat and serve one another in the kitchen and how we treat and serve our guests in the dining room.

The Optimist brings a menu of casual, wood-fired fare to Nashville's Germantown neighborhood, transporting landlocked Tennesseans coast side to experience fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. We are seeking an Executive Chef who is passionate about sustainable, super fresh seafood. The Executive Chef leads the entire culinary team, directing the day-to-day operations of all areas of the kitchen including production and prep, special events and purchasing and receiving.

Responsibilities

• Lead the entire culinary team and direct day-to-day operations of all kitchen areas including production, prep, special events, purchasing and receiving
• Ensure all culinary employees maximize efficiency and productivity to achieve total guest satisfaction
• Actively review and evaluate daily guest feedback
• Oversee menu changes and education process for all culinary and service staff
• Engineer seasonal specials and event menus
• Direct food production and plating from the pass during service
• Properly and efficiently train all line cooks
• Cost menus to meet or exceed the budgeted percentage
• Foster an educational environment to develop all culinary staff for future advancement

Requirements

• 10 years of progressive culinary experience preferred
• 5 years in senior management required

Pay

Competitive salary: $85,000 – $120,000/yr. DOE + generous quarterly bonus program

Benefits

• Full benefit eligibility after 30 days of employment: Major Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance
• Supportive culture and ethical work environment
• Dynamic performance-based raises and promotions
• Paid Time Off, Childbirth Recovery Leave and Parental Leave to support a healthy work-life balance
• Significant Long-term Retention bonuses
• Time off on most major holidays, including Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve and Christmas Day
• 50% discount at all Rocket Farm Restaurants — Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville, Houston, Raleigh, and Winter Park
• Rocket Farm University: specialized leadership classes and personalized support for career advancement
• Employee-led Mentorship programs, Advisory Council and Safety Committee