Executive Kitchen Manager - Quick Hire!

Din Tai Fung (DTF) is a globally recognized culinary icon celebrated for its mastery in crafting the delicate and flavorful Xiao Long Bao, a signature soup dumpling that has garnered acclaim worldwide. Established in 1972, Din Tai Fung has grown from its family-owned origins into a prestigious Michelin-recognized restaurant brand with over 165 locations spread across 13 countries. Despite its international expansion, the company remains deeply rooted in its founding values, continuing to be family-owned and operated through multiple generations. The brand is synonymous with quality, consistency, authentic flavors, and warm hospitality, creating memorable dining experiences for guests across the globe. In the United States alone, Din Tai Fung operates 16 refined locations, each offering an upscale yet welcoming atmosphere suitable for any occasion, whether casual dining or special events. The role of Executive Kitchen Manager at Din Tai Fung is a pivotal leadership position located at our Bellevue, WA, (Lincoln Square) location. This full-time role carries an annual base salary ranging from $120,000 to $145,000, with additional eligibility for an annual incentive plan based on individual and company performance. The Executive Kitchen Manager works in close partnership with the General Manager to ensure the restaurant's overall success by taking full ownership of the back-of-house operations. This includes overseeing all kitchen staff, managing inventory and costs, and maintaining uncompromising standards for food quality, safety, and cleanliness. The Executive Kitchen Manager is more than just an operational leader; they are a culture driver and mentor, fostering a positive and collaborative work environment. They are responsible for building and developing a strong kitchen team through effective hiring, staff training, coaching, and motivation, ensuring alignment with Din Tai Fung's mission and values. Additionally, they play a critical role in financial management by controlling departmental budgets, analyzing financial reports, driving profitability through strategic initiatives, and managing labor and inventory costs. Operationally, the Executive Kitchen Manager ensures seamless day-to-day execution by maintaining brand standards, enforcing health and safety regulations, and upholding compliance with internal policies and external municipal or federal regulations. Scheduling and staffing are crucial parts of the role to meet business demands and optimize labor budgets, while also developing leadership bench strength within the kitchen team. The incumbent also manages vendor relationships to maintain product quality and support efficient inventory processes. This role is ideal for candidates with substantial kitchen management experience in high-volume, full-service restaurants who are passionate about culinary excellence, leadership, and operational efficiency. Din Tai Fung offers a supportive and inclusive work culture that values growth, with ample opportunities for professional advancement, competitive compensation, and a comprehensive benefits package designed to support work-life balance and employee wellbeing. Joining Din Tai Fung means becoming part of a heritage brand dedicated to delivering world-class dining experiences through food mastery, impeccable service, and a commitment to quality in every dish served.

• 3+ years of kitchen management experience in a high-volume, full-service restaurant
• strong knowledge of food safety standards and kitchen operations, including inventory and cost control
• proven leadership skills with experience hiring, training, and developing back-of-house teams
• ability to manage budgets and interpret financial statements (e.g., food cost, labor cost, P&L)
• effective communication and organizational skills, with the ability to collaborate cross-functionally
• applicant must be 18 years of age or older and able to provide documentation to work legally in the United States