Head Chef

Position Title: Head Chef

Location: The Boatyard Bar & Bistro, Ottawa, IL

Job Summary: We are seeking a talented and passionate Head Chef to lead our culinary team at The Boatyard Bar & Bistro, a vibrant new waterfront restaurant in Ottawa, IL, opening in April 2025. The Head Chef will be responsible for creating and delivering an exceptional dining experience by overseeing kitchen operations, collaborating on menus, and ensuring the highest standards of food quality and presentation. This role requires a creative culinary expert with strong leadership skills, a dedication to culinary excellence, and a commitment to maintaining a positive and efficient kitchen environment.

Key Responsibilities:

• As part of the management team you will help develop and design innovative menus that reflect the restaurant's concept and seasonal availability of ingredients.
• Oversee all aspects of kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating.
• Ensure that all dishes are prepared to the highest standards of quality, taste, and presentation.
• Manage and lead a team of kitchen staff, providing training, guidance, and support to ensure a cohesive and efficient team.
• Monitor inventory levels, order supplies, and manage costs to achieve budgetary goals.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment, adhering to all health and safety regulations.
• Collaborate with the restaurant management team to ensure seamless service and guest satisfaction.
• Manage relationships with distributors and resolve issues with vendors promptly.
• Stay updated on culinary trends & techniques to continuously enhance the menu & dining experience.

Qualifications:

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef or Sous Chef in a reputable restaurant.
• Not required but preferred - Culinary degree or equivalent professional training.
• Must have or obtain all necessary Illinois required health certifications including ANSI Food Handler and Allergy training.
• Familiar with scratch baking, butchery, and cooking of chicken, beef, and seafood.
• Excellent leadership and team management skills.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and high-pressure environment.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Must be available weekends, holidays, and most weekdays.

Benefits:

• Competitive salary and performance-based bonuses.
• Paid time off and holidays.
• Free boat slip and storage at Starved Rock Marina

How to Apply: Interested candidates are invited to submit their resume, cover letter, and portfolio of culinary work to theboatyardbarandbistro@gmail.com. Please include "Head Chef Application" in the subject line.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $55,000.00 per year

Benefits:

• 401(k)
• Paid time off

Shift:

• 10 hour shift
• 8 hour shift

Supplemental Pay:

• Overtime pay
• Performance bonus

Experience:

• Culinary: 2 years (Preferred)

Ability to Commute:

• Ottawa, IL 61350 (Preferred)

Work Location: In person

Salary : $55,000