Chef In Training Jobs in Santa Ana, CA (NOW HIRING)

About Us:

The Odyssey offers breathtaking panoramic views of the San Fernando Valley, providing an unforgettable dining experience. As a proud leader in farm-to-table cuisine, we are committed to delivering fresh, vibrant, and flavorful dishes that celebrate the best of California's seasonal ingredients.

Recognized as one of OpenTable's Diners' Choice Award winners and consistently ranked among the top scenic restaurants in Los Angeles, The Odyssey has been a premier dining destination for decades. Our exceptional hospitality and innovative culinary approach have also earned us accolades from local food critics and publications, solidifying our reputation as a must-visit culinary landmark.

Our mission at The Odyssey/Specialty Restaurants Corporation is to always innovate and consistently deliver a 5-star experience for our teams, guests, and community. We are all about advancement and growth from within, collaboration, teamwork, and creating a positive work environment. We look forward to adding our next valued team member!

• Assist the Executive Chef in leading daily kitchen operations, ensuring high-quality food production and presentation.
• Develop and execute creative, seasonal menus that align with our culinary standards.
• Manage kitchen staff, including hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management.
• Manage all banquet opperations to ensure they are being executed by what is stated on the BEO.
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations, hygiene standards, and proper kitchen organization.
• Monitor food costs, labor expenses, and inventory levels to maximize profitability.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and management team on special events, catering, and VIP services.
• Maintain a positive and motivating kitchen environment that fosters teamwork and growth.

• Minimum 5 years of experience in a high-volume, fine-dining kitchen, with at least 2 years in a Sous Chef or similar leadership role.
• Strong knowledge of contemporary culinary techniques and upscale menu development.
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with the ability to mentor and inspire a diverse team.
• Proven experience in managing food costs, labor control, and kitchen efficiency.
• Culinary degree or relevant professional certification preferred.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic kitchen environment.
• Detailed oriented with a strong emphasis on accuracy and time management.
• Ability to interface with various levels of management
• Strong familiarity with OSHA and all local Department of Health Regulations.
• PC literate with a working knowledge of general systems

• Industry-leading compensation package
• Comprehensive Health Plans that include, a variety of medical and dental plans, employer contribution HAS for yourself and dependents.
• Lifestyle Spending Account benefit, which supports you and your family in numerous ways such as through gym memberships, childcare, student loans & more!
• Variety of Supplemental Benefit Plans for life's unknowns
• 401k with annual employer match after 12 months employment
• Employer paid life Insurance throughout the length of employment
• Monthly Reward Dollars to use at various company locations.
• Accrued Paid Vacation
• Paid/Floating holidays for 5 major holidays
• Paid Sick Time renewed yearly
• Education Assistance Program (EdAP) for hospitality related education growth
• Employee Assistance Program (EAP) to assist with work life balance
• Management Referral Program with up to a $4,000 payout for qualifying management positions

• Frequent lifting, moving and carrying of kitchenware, cleaning equipment, food boxes, garbage etc. weighing up to 30 pounds.
• Standing for the duration of a 6+ hour shift with appropriate breaks.
• Regular and prolonged standing and walking to prepare food, clean workstations, move garbage, etc.
• Occasional ascending/descending stairs across the restaurant to move food items, equipment, etc.
• Repeating motions that may include the wrists, hands and/or fingers
• Frequent use of hand to finger motions, handle or feel objects, reach with hands and arms
• Constant bending, stooping and turning, etc.
• Constant exposure to hot and damp temperature fluctuations

All job offers are contingent upon successfully passing a background check.