Chef Operator/GM | Growing Fast Casual Restaurant | Philadelphia, PA $80-85K+

Our client is a distinguished restaurant organization located in Philadelphia, PA, known for its commitment to culinary excellence and innovation. This establishment prides itself on creating vibrant dining experiences through a scratch-based kitchen model that embraces high-quality, real food prepared with passion and precision. The restaurant utilizes a traditional brigade system, providing an organized and efficient structure that promotes teamwork, skill development, and operational success. The company values employee growth, continuous learning, and fostering a collaborative culture that empowers staff at all levels to contribute meaningfully to the guest experience and the business's overall performance. The Chef Operator role is a critical leadership position within this restaurant environment. Offering a competitive salary range of $80,000 to $85,000 annually with an annual salary increase and quarterly bonus opportunities, this role demands a dynamic professional capable of overseeing both kitchen and front-of-house operations. As the Chef Operator, you will be entrusted with full ownership of the restaurant’s performance, managing everything from P&L responsibilities to labor efficiency and food cost control. Your leadership will focus not only on operational excellence but also on empowering your team through effective mentoring, training, and development practices. Your ability to stay organized in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment will be essential. You will lead your team by example, maintaining stringent culinary standards and ensuring compliance with all Department of Health regulations. The role requires strong communication skills to clearly articulate standards, delegate tasks, and manage daily operations effectively, including troubleshooting technology and off-site ordering systems. Furthermore, you will work closely with the Chef de Cuisine and Field Leadership Team to implement new initiatives, evaluate guest feedback, and continuously enhance the restaurant’s service and product offerings. This leadership role calls for a strategic thinker who balances a hands-on approach with big-picture management skills. You will foster an entrepreneurial atmosphere within the team, encouraging innovation and proactive problem-solving. The Chef Operator will also be the face of hospitality in the establishment, consistently interacting with guests and delivery personnel to uphold the highest standards of service. Additionally, the role involves human resource responsibilities including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations documentation, and succession planning, ensuring the restaurant maintains a strong and motivated workforce capable of delivering exceptional dining experiences. In summary, the Chef Operator position offers a unique opportunity to lead a high-performing team in a well-respected, innovative restaurant that values quality, teamwork, and operational excellence. This role is ideal for candidates passionate about culinary leadership, operational management, and creating memorable dining experiences in a fast-paced industry environment.

• A minimum of 3-5 years of experience in kitchen or operational restaurant management
• Valid Department of Health and/or ServSafe certification
• Physical ability to meet the position’s requirements including lifting up to 50 pounds
• Strong problem-solving skills with the ability to manage multiple variables to find optimal solutions
• Excellent communication skills
• Commitment to professional improvement and continuous learning
• Willingness to be hands-on and assist wherever necessary