Executive Chef/Chef - $73600 to $101400 per YEAR
Posted on October 24, 2025
Water Grill is a renowned seafood restaurant in Southern California, celebrated for providing exceptional dining experiences for over 25 years. Recognized by the prestigious Zagat Guide as delivering "the best seafood in Southern California," Water Grill has built a reputation for sourcing and serving dazzling fish preparations that brim with superior quality and unmatched freshness. With a rich legacy that spans over two decades, the establishment prides itself on a commitment to excellence in food, hospitality, and guest satisfaction, making it a top destination for seafood lovers in the region.
At Water Grill, the team culture revolves around maintaining high standards, embracing innovation, and nurturing leadership within its ranks. As a staple of southern California’s dining scene, Water Grill blends tradition with modern culinary techniques, ensuring guests receive an extraordinary experience every time they visit. The restaurant's commitment to quality is evident not only in its meticulous ingredient selection but also in the rigorous processes and team dynamics behind the scenes. This enduring legacy of quality has made Water Grill an industry leader known for consistency and excellence.
We are currently seeking an experienced Executive Chef/Chef to join our leadership team. This role is vital, serving as the backbone of the kitchen’s operations and the culinary ambassador of the restaurant. The Executive Chef will collaborate closely with the General Manager to not only execute superior fish and seafood dishes but also oversee the entire kitchen’s operations. This includes everything from ordering and inventory management to food safety, staff development, scheduling, and maintaining financial health in the back of the house.
In this role, you will be responsible for setting the daily tone of the kitchen, ensuring the highest quality standards are met, and leading a team of line cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashers. Given the company's commitment to nurturing talent, you will be trained extensively in financial acumen, leadership, operational excellence, and quality assurance. Water Grill provides a proven platform for career development where motivated chefs can elevate their skills and move toward advanced leadership roles. Our Executive Chefs are expected to be ‘‘standards-driven’’ professionals who uphold integrity, demonstrate vigilance, and foster positive interactions with both guests and crew members.
The compensation package includes a competitive salary ranging from $105,000 to $125,000 based on experience, plus a realized bonus. Additional benefits include paid vacation and sick days, dining discounts for the chef and up to five guests, 401k plan with employer match, education reimbursement, and comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life, and pet healthcare savings insurance. This comprehensive package underscores our commitment to employee wellbeing and growth.
Joining Water Grill means becoming part of a stable, successful company that places a high value on professional growth and operational excellence. From mastering financial controls and inventory management to executing exquisite plating and innovative menu developments, this role offers a uniquely comprehensive culinary leadership experience. Whether you aim to continue growing within the culinary field or aspire to broader operational leadership, Water Grill offers the resources and support to achieve your career goals.
- Minimum of 21 years of age
- Four years kitchen management experience in a high-volume, full service, restaurant with annual sales over $8 million
- High school diploma or equivalent
- Culinary training or equivalent professional cooking experience
- Ability to analyze and interpret financial reports
- Proficient verbal and written communication skills in English for interaction with guests, management, and team members
- Comprehensive knowledge of cooking techniques needed for all menu items
- Thorough understanding of menu and special dishes including preparation methods, ingredients, quality standards, and presentation
- Physical ability to lift up to 40 pounds and carry items over distances
- Capability to reach heights up to 6 feet
- Ability to work comfortably at counter heights between 36 and 42 inches
- Ability to navigate through narrow aisles as small as 12 inches