Executive Chef Jobs in Derby, CT (NOW HIRING)

At bartaco, food is our passion. But people are our purpose.

We invest in our team because our people are at the heart of what we do. We’re committed to creating an atmosphere where team members can learn, develop, and succeed every day. Whether you aspire to excel in a leadership, hospitality, or culinary role, bartaco is an environment that fosters growth and helps you achieve your goals.

At bartaco, we’re guest-obsessed. Our mission is to create memorable moments for every guest, every time. It’s who we are.

We are looking for Chefs to create the bartaco experience and who live and breathe our touchstones. Our culture is defined by these values and guides how we work together to create the most incredible experiences for our guests.  

• Pride: You take pride in your work and in contributing to something special
• Good People: You value teamwork, treat others with kindness, and build trust with those around you
• Positively Intolerant: You hold yourself and your team accountable for delivering quality and consistency because our guests deserve nothing less
• Introspective: You’re always looking to grow and improve, taking feedback as an opportunity to get better
• Transparent: You communicate openly and honestly, fostering a culture of trust and collaboration
• We Have Fun and Make People Happy: You bring energy, warmth, and a genuine smile, knowing that your positivity can brighten someone’s day

A brief look at what you’ll do as an Executive Chef at bartaco:

As an Executive Chef at bartaco, you are the culinary leader responsible for ensuring the highest standards of food quality, consistency, and operational excellence. You will guide your team to execute our established culinary standards with precision, ensuring every dish meets bartaco's commitment to excellence. Your role is to maintain smooth kitchen operations, uphold our brand's standards, and drive guest satisfaction through impeccable food quality and service.

This role requires a strong culinary leader with a passion for maintaining operational excellence, driving consistency, and ensuring that every dish reflects bartaco’s commitment to high standards and exceptional guest satisfaction. As an Executive Chef, you will be a key ambassador for bartaco's brand and culture, helping to create memorable dining experiences for our guests.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading the kitchen team by embodying bartaco’s core leadership principles and touchstones
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring seamless execution of service and operational standards
• Ensuring consistent execution of bartaco's culinary standards across every dish and service
• Maintaining deep knowledge of recipes and kitchen procedures to ensure operational consistency and quality
• Overseeing inventory management, analyzing AVT, ensuring proper ordering, tracking, analyzing AVT, proactive resolution of issues, and ensuring accountability
• Ensuring compliance with all health, safety, and company policies to maintain a safe and efficient kitchen environment
• Supporting the General Manager in optimizing kitchen operations and aligning team efforts toward delivering exceptional guest experiences
• Ensuring that the culinary team consistently meets the standards of taste, presentation, and quality that bartaco is known for
• Recruit, train, and develop a high-performing team, promoting teamwork, accountability, and a guest-obsessed mentality
• Manage and communicate effectively around rollouts, ensuring smooth execution and team readiness
• Ensure daily, informative, and inspiring pre-shifts occur, keeping the team aligned and motivated
• Demonstrate strong business acumen through managing financial performance, including budgeting, forecasting, cost control, and revenue growth 
•  Mentorship, coaching, and accountability—ensuring every role contributes to exceptional service and operational excellence 

Perks, Benefits + Rewards, just for you:

• A fun work environment! 
• Career development and advancement opportunities 
• Competitive pay 
• Meal discounts when dining at bartaco
• Paid vacation time
• Gym and fitness center discounts 
• Opportunity to learn multiple languages/language education 
• Discounted virtual pet care 
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance 
• Mental Health and holistic wellness support 
• 401K enrollment and matching 

Requirements:

• 3 years of restaurant experience as an Executive Chef 
• A passion for hospitality and a commitment to delivering outstanding guest experiences
• Exceptional leadership and communication skills  
• Experience mentoring and training hourly team members
• Attention to detail and problem-solving skills
• Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays

Physical Skills:

• Bring an energetic hustle and positive attitude to every shift 
• Able to tolerate long periods working on foot/standing up
• Able to lift and move objects up to 50 pounds 

#ZR

At bartaco, food is our passion. But people are our purpose.

We invest in our team because our people are at the heart of what we do. We’re committed to creating an atmosphere where team members can learn, develop, and succeed every day. Whether you aspire to excel in a leadership, hospitality, or culinary role, bartaco is an environment that fosters growth and helps you achieve your goals.

At bartaco, we’re guest-obsessed. Our mission is to create memorable moments for every guest, every time. It’s who we are.