Job Description

Job Description

Job Description

Job Summary

We are seeking a highly creative and experienced Executive Chef to lead our team at a long-standing, fast-paced, family-owned Italian restaurant in Pittsburgh. The ideal candidate has a deep passion for and extensive knowledge of authentic Italian cuisine and a proven track record of successful kitchen leadership. You will oversee all back-of-house operations, ensuring culinary excellence and upholding the traditions that have defined our restaurant for years.

Key Responsibilities

• Menu development: In addition to maintaining high quality standards for some legacy menu items, you will also create and innovate menus that showcase authentic and regional Italian cuisine while using seasonal, high-quality ingredients.
• Culinary operations: Oversee and direct all daily kitchen operations, from food preparation to the execution of all dishes during service, ensuring consistency and quality.
• Team leadership: Manage, train, and mentor all kitchen staff, including sous chefs and line cooks. Foster a positive and collaborative environment that promotes growth, discipline, and efficiency.
• Cost and inventory management: Be accountable for meeting food and labor cost targets. Manage inventory, control waste, and establish strong relationships with trusted vendors to source the best products.
• Quality control: Maintain the highest standards for food quality, taste, and presentation. Conduct regular line checks and tasting sessions to ensure consistency.
• Health and safety compliance: Enforce strict adherence to all local, state, and federal food safety and sanitation regulations, ensuring a clean and safe kitchen environment.
• Communication and collaboration: Work closely with the family owners and the front-of-house team to ensure a seamless dining experience for our customers. Be receptive to feedback and communicate effectively with all restaurant staff.

Qualifications and Skills

• Proven experience as an Executive Chef or in a senior leadership role within a reputable restaurant, preferably one specializing in Italian cuisine. Must have at least 4 years of Executive Sous or CDC experience overseeing a high volume kitchen that executes both plated dishes as well as banquet and catering orders.
• A deep and authentic passion for Italian food, its history, and its regional variations.
• Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with a track record of motivating and managing kitchen staff effectively under pressure.
• Creative and innovative approach to menu development, with the ability to balance traditional recipes with modern techniques.
• Expert-level knowledge of food preparation, flavor profiles, and culinary best practices.
• Strong business acumen, including proven expertise in food costing, budgeting, and inventory control.
• Excellent time management and organizational skills to thrive in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills to interact positively with staff, vendors, and owners.
• Food safety certification (e.g., ServSafe) is required.
• Experience with private events, catering, and banquets is a plus.

Join Our Family

If you are a creative, confident, and dedicated culinary professional who shares our love for Italian cuisine and community, we encourage you to apply. You'll have the opportunity to lead a talented kitchen and build on our long-standing reputation in the Pittsburgh dining scene.

Benefits

• Strong Medical and Dental Coverage
• Bonus (% based on profit)
• 401K
• Relocation assistance offered for the right candidate
• EOE - We are committed to equal employment opportunity regardless of race, color, ancestry, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, age, citizenship, marital status, disability, gender identity or Veteran status.

Job Tags

Similar Jobs