Executive Chef at Black Barrel Tavern
Chicago, IL 60607
About the Job
Position Summary:
The Kitchen Leader Chef at Black Barrel Tavern is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the
kitchen operations, ensuring that high standards of food quality, safety, and efficiency are
maintained. As the head of the kitchen, the Kitchen Leader manages the kitchen staff, including
expediters, line cooks, head line cooks, and dishwashers, and is responsible for scheduling and
training. The Kitchen Leader Chef is a key holder, opening the kitchen to prepare for daily
service and special events, and is actively involved in cooking, prep work, and expediting. This
role also involves creating and following recipes to maintain consistency and quality across all
dishes.
Key Responsibilities:
Leadership and Management:
Oversee all kitchen operations, ensuring that food is prepared to the highest
standards of quality and consistency.
Lead, manage, and mentor the kitchen staff, including expediters, line cooks, head
line cooks, and dishwashers.
Develop and implement training programs for kitchen staff to ensure consistency
in food preparation and service.
Create and manage the kitchen schedule, ensuring that the kitchen is adequately
staffed for daily service and special events.
Key Holder Responsibilities:
Open the kitchen each day, ensuring that all equipment is operational and that the
kitchen is fully prepared for the day s service.
Set up the kitchen stations, including prepping ingredients, organizing supplies,
and ensuring that all necessary items are in place.
Ensure that the kitchen is secured at the end of each day, following all closing
procedures.
Cooking and Food Preparation: Step in to cook on the line or assist with prep work as
needed, ensuring that food
is prepared efficiently and to the highest standards.
Create and follow recipes, ensuring consistency and quality across all menu items.
Act as the expeditor when not directly involved in cooking or prep, ensuring that
food orders are completed correctly and delivered to guests promptly.
Food Quality and Control:
Oversee the preparation and presentation of all menu items, ensuring they meet
Terry s Americana s quality standards.
Work closely with the General Manager to develop and refine menu items,
incorporating seasonal ingredients and specials.
Monitor food safety and sanitation practices in the kitchen, ensuring compliance
with health department regulations.
Operational Oversight:
Manage inventory and ordering of kitchen supplies, ensuring that the kitchen is
adequately stocked at all times.
Oversee the cleanliness and organization of the kitchen, including workstations,
storage areas, and equipment.
Event Preparation:
Coordinate with the General Manager and other staff to prepare for special events,
ensuring that all kitchen operations are aligned with event requirements.
Manage the kitchen staff during events, ensuring smooth and efficient service.
Team Collaboration:
Work closely with the General Manager and FOH staff to ensure seamless
coordination between the kitchen and dining room.
Foster a positive and collaborative work environment, promoting teamwork and
communication among kitchen staff.
Steps of Service Compliance:
Ensure that all kitchen operations align with Terry s Americana s steps of service,
contributing to a consistent and high-quality guest experience.
Certification and Permit Requirements:
Must have all certifications necessary from the state and must maintain these
certifications.
All certifications must be provided within 30 days of hire, or the employee will be
excluded from scheduling and ultimately let go if they do not comply.
It is the responsibility of the Kitchen Leader to ensure that all certifications are
kept up to date.
Social Media Responsibilities:
Actively participate in social media by posting and reposting any marketing
materials provided by management. Help promote daily specials, events, and any other
marketing initiatives on social
media platforms as directed by management.
This is a mandatory part of the role and is essential for maintaining Terry s
Americana s online presence.
Appearance: Maintain proper attire as outlined in the employee handbook, ensuring a
clean and professional appearance at all times.
Qualifications:
Proven experience in a culinary leadership role, preferably as a chef or kitchen manager.
Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills, with the ability to motivate and manage a
diverse team.
Strong organizational and time management skills.
Ability to work efficiently in a high-pressure environment.
Experience with creating and following recipes.
Familiarity with inventory management and ordering procedures.
Must be able to stand for extended periods and perform physically demanding tasks as
needed.
Familiarity with social media platforms and ability to follow posting guidelines provided
by management.
