Manager Culinary Research Development Jobs in Arizona

Los Milics Vineyards – Scottsdale Tasting Room

Position Overview

Los Milics Vineyards is seeking a talented and passionate Chef to lead the culinary program at our new Scottsdale Tasting Room. This role is responsible for creating an exceptional food experience that complements our award-winning wines while maintaining the highest standards of quality, consistency, and hospitality.

The ideal candidate is an organized and hands-on culinary leader who thrives in a collaborative environment. This position is responsible for leading daily kitchen operations, mentoring team members, developing seasonal menus, maintaining operational excellence, and working closely with winery leadership to create memorable guest experiences.

Primary Responsibilities

Culinary Leadership

• Lead all daily kitchen operations, ensuring consistent execution and exceptional food quality.
• Prepare and present menu items with precision, creativity, and attention to detail.
• Develop seasonal menus and specials that complement the Los Milics wine portfolio.
• Maintain consistency in recipes, plating, and portion standards.
• Foster a positive, professional, and team-oriented kitchen culture.

Team Development

• Recruit, train, mentor, and support kitchen staff.
• Schedule kitchen employees to meet operational needs while maintaining labor goals.
• Establish clear expectations and provide ongoing coaching and performance feedback.
• Promote teamwork, accountability, cleanliness, and professionalism throughout the kitchen.

Kitchen Operations

• Manage food ordering, receiving, inventory, and vendor relationships.
• Monitor food costs and identify opportunities to improve efficiency while maintaining quality.
• Minimize waste through thoughtful purchasing, production planning, and cross-utilization.
• Ensure proper maintenance and organization of kitchen equipment and workspaces.

Food Safety & Compliance

• Maintain the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness.
• Ensure compliance with all local, state, and federal health regulations.
• Oversee proper food handling, storage, labeling, and temperature controls.
• Maintain accurate cleaning schedules and food safety documentation.

Collaboration

• Partner closely with the tasting room leadership team to deliver seamless hospitality experiences.
• Collaborate with winery leadership on menu planning, special events, wine dinners, and seasonal programming.
• Support private events, wine club experiences, and promotional activities as needed.
• Work with front-of-house staff to ensure knowledgeable food and wine pairings and exceptional guest service.

Operational Excellence

• Monitor kitchen performance, labor efficiency, and food quality.
• Maintain organized inventory systems and accurate ordering procedures.
• Assist in establishing operational procedures that improve consistency and efficiency.
• Continuously evaluate opportunities to enhance the guest dining experience.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a Chef or culinary leader in a restaurant, winery, or hospitality setting.
• Strong culinary skills with a passion for seasonal, ingredient-driven cuisine.
• Experience managing kitchen operations, food costs, purchasing, and inventory.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and kitchen sanitation standards.
• Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop a high-performing culinary team.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment while maintaining exceptional quality.
• Wine knowledge is appreciated, and an interest in learning about Arizona wine is encouraged.

Schedule

This is a full-time position requiring flexibility, including evenings, weekends, holidays, and special events.

Growth Opportunities

Los Milics Vineyards is a growing hospitality and wine company committed to promoting from within whenever possible. As our culinary and hospitality programs continue to expand, team members who demonstrate leadership, creativity, and operational excellence will have opportunities for increased responsibility and career advancement.

Additional Expectations

At Los Milics Vineyards, we value leaders who are collaborative, adaptable, and invested in the success of the entire team. This position is expected to contribute beyond the responsibilities outlined above, taking initiative and supporting the overall operation whenever needed. We believe exceptional guest experiences are created through teamwork, attention to detail, and a shared commitment to excellence.

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: Scottsdale, Arizona (In Person)

Los Milics Vineyards is an award-winning Arizona winery dedicated to crafting exceptional wines and creating memorable hospitality experiences. With tasting rooms, vineyard accommodations, and culinary programs designed to showcase the beauty of Arizona wine country, we believe that great wine is best enjoyed through genuine hospitality, thoughtful food, and meaningful connections.