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Opening Executive Chef Jobs in Oregon (NOW HIRING)

Executive Chef

Portland, OR · On-site

$89K - $109K/yr

Job Summary: The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager is responsible for managing the restaurant ... Completes opening and closing checklists * Responsible for maintenance and repairs of kitchen ...

Executive Chef

Tigard, OR · On-site

$89K - $109K/yr

Job Summary: The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager is responsible for managing the restaurant ... Completes opening and closing checklists * Responsible for maintenance and repairs of kitchen ...

Job Summary: The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager is responsible for managing the restaurant ... Completes opening and closing checklists * Responsible for maintenance and repairs of kitchen ...

Executive Chef

Arlington, OR · On-site

$72K - $99K/yr

Executive Chef American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Executive Chef

Cascade Locks, OR · On-site

$68K - $94K/yr

Executive Chef American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Executive Chef

Arlington, OR · On-site

$72K - $99K/yr

Executive Chef American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Executive Chef

Cascade Locks, OR

$68K - $94K/yr

Executive Chef American Cruise Lines is the largest U.S. cruise line, dedicated to providing ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Executive Sous Chef

Eugene, OR · On-site

$75K - $80K/yr

Executive Sous Chef | Valley River Inn Let's start off with the most important part-what's in it ... We show up every day with open hearts, an inclusive mindset, and a genuine respect for those around ...

Coordinate with the Executive Chef and Food & Beverage Manager to develop and implement cost ... Foster a positive and collaborative work culture within the culinary team, promoting open ...

Executive Sous Chef

Arlington, OR · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Executive Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Executive Sous Chef

Cascade Locks, OR · On-site

$62K - $79K/yr

Executive Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Executive Sous Chef

Cascade Locks, OR · On-site

$62K - $79K/yr

Executive Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Executive Sous Chef

Arlington, OR · On-site

$65K - $84K/yr

Executive Sous Chef American Cruise Lines, the largest cruise line operating exclusively within the ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

Executive Chef | Valley River Inn Let's start off with the most important part-what's in it for you ... We show up every day with open hearts, an inclusive mindset, and a genuine respect for those around ...

Executive Chef | Valley River Inn Let's start off with the most important part-what's in it for you ... We show up every day with open hearts, an inclusive mindset, and a genuine respect for those around ...

Notify the Executive Chef of any product shortages or equipment maintenance issues. * Maintain ... Ability to assist in the event of an on-board emergency by quickly climbing up a ladder, opening ...

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Opening Executive Chef information

What is an opening executive chef?

An Opening Executive Chef is a culinary professional responsible for launching the kitchen operations of a new restaurant, hotel, or food establishment. They develop menus, hire and train kitchen staff, set up kitchen workflows, and ensure that all culinary standards are met before and during the opening. Their goal is to establish high-quality food service from day one and set the foundation for long-term success. This role requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and the ability to work under tight deadlines.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an opening executive chef?

To thrive as an Opening Executive Chef, you need expertise in culinary arts, menu development, kitchen management, and typically a degree in culinary studies or relevant experience. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, inventory software, and food safety certifications (like ServSafe) is essential. Leadership, organization, and effective communication are crucial soft skills for guiding teams and establishing kitchen culture. These competencies enable successful restaurant launches, consistent food quality, and efficient operations from day one.

What are some common challenges faced by an opening executive chef during the launch of a new restaurant?

An Opening Executive Chef often faces challenges such as creating and standardizing a new menu, training a brand-new kitchen staff, and establishing efficient kitchen workflows under tight deadlines. Additionally, they must collaborate closely with management, suppliers, and front-of-house teams to ensure seamless coordination for a successful opening. Balancing high-quality food preparation with cost control and adapting quickly to unforeseen issues are also key aspects of this dynamic role.

What is the difference between Opening Executive Chef vs Executive Chef?

AspectOpening Executive ChefExecutive Chef
CredentialsCulinary degree, extensive experience, leadership skillsCulinary degree, experience, leadership skills
Work EnvironmentPre-opening planning, menu development, team hiringOverseeing daily kitchen operations, staff management
Employer & Industry UsageUsed during restaurant or hotel openingsUsed for ongoing kitchen management
Search & Comparison IntentUnderstanding roles during restaurant launchesManaging existing kitchen operations

The Opening Executive Chef focuses on preparing a new restaurant or kitchen for launch, including menu creation and team setup. The Executive Chef manages daily kitchen operations once the establishment is open. Both roles require culinary expertise and leadership, but their focus differs based on the stage of the restaurant's lifecycle.

Do opening executive chefs get paid well?

Opening executive chefs typically earn higher salaries compared to other culinary roles due to their leadership responsibilities and experience requirements. Compensation varies based on the size and location of the establishment, but they often receive competitive wages, bonuses, and benefits. Strong leadership skills and culinary expertise can positively impact earning potential in this role.

Is an opening executive chef a stressful job?

An opening executive chef role can be stressful due to the high level of responsibility for kitchen operations, staff management, and meeting quality standards. The job often involves long hours, tight deadlines, and the need to quickly adapt to new environments and menus.

What cities in Oregon are hiring for Opening Executive Chef jobs?

Cities in Oregon with the most Opening Executive Chef job openings:

Executive Chef

PF Changs

Portland, OR • On-site

$89K - $109K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 5 days ago


P.F. Chang's rating

6.3

Company rating: 6.3 out of 10

Based on 97 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

34th of 88 rated restaurants


Job description

P.F. Chang's Pay Range (based on experience): $89,000.00 - $109,000.00 / year

Benefits We Offer:

  • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(K), and paid time off.
  • Competitive Pay & Performance Incentives: Monthly and annual bonuses based on performance.
  • Professional Development: Paid management training program to enhance skills and advance career - we promote from within.
  • Referral Program: Earn a $250 referral bonus for Team Member positions and $500 for restaurant management positions through our employee referral program (for locations other than home location).
  • Exclusive Discounts: Access exclusive employee discounts.
  • Holidays: Most locations closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas.
  • Supportive Community: Financial assistance through the Lucky Cat Fund during hardships for qualifying team members.

Hiring immediately for full-time salaried Executive Chef or Head Chef or Executive Kitchen Manager (EKM):

Job Summary:

The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager is responsible for managing the restaurant culinary team and restaurant food service operations to ensure high operating standards in the kitchen. This includes the hiring, training and development of the culinary team and kitchen staff, as well as managing inventory and controlling costs incurred in the kitchen. The Executive Chef or Kitchen Manager reports to directly to the restaurant Operating Partner or General Manager.

Job Responsibilities:

  • Accountable for operational excellence in the kitchen
  • Delegates tasks and gives direction to all kitchen staff
  • Conducts interviews with kitchen management and staff candidates
  • Selection, orientation and continual development of all Sous Chefs and kitchen staff
  • Prepares work schedule for Sous Chef and kitchen staff
  • On-going preservation of safety certification requirements for all kitchen staff
  • Responsible for managing inventory, cost of goods and overall control of financials
  • Responsible for health inspections
  • Supervises and facilitates all training for all food prep and execution of menu items, procedures, and recipes to all kitchen staff
  • Ensures proper timing and production for food orders
  • On-going performance appraisals for Sous Chefs and kitchen staff
  • Holds kitchen staff accountable for dress code standards
  • Responsible for maintaining all product quality standards
  • Responsible for maintaining expected food costs and inventory
  • Oversees or completes all prep lists and ordering guides
  • Completes opening and closing checklists
  • Responsible for maintenance and repairs of kitchen equipment and facility
  • Responsible for knowing how to work all kitchen stations proficiently
  • Accountable for providing a clean and safe environment for both Team Members and Guests

Job Requirements:

  • 3+ years of culinary management experience with experience managing and writing prep lists
  • Must possess a valid driver's license to perform occasional duties such as providing shift coverage, meeting liquor license requirements (depending on the state), delivering large catering orders (which may include operating a rental truck), making supply runs, local restaurant marketing, attending offsite training and business meetings, and traveling between restaurant locations to support operations.
  • Experience in managing inventory, cost of goods and overall control of financials
  • Experience working in a hands-on, fast paced, high volume environment
  • Experience in managing a team, while identifying and developing employees for future leadership roles
  • Experience in facilitating and effectively executing training
  • Strong communication and organizational skills
  • Must be able to stand and walk for periods of eight to ten hours in length each shift
  • Must be able to reach, bend, balance and transport various objects weighing up to 30 lbs repeatedly during a shift. At times it might be necessary to lift up to 50 lbs
  • Must be able to work around various levels of temperature, including warm to very warm temperatures in the kitchen

Preferences:

  • Bilingual in English and Spanish
  • Experience working in an upscale scratch kitchen concept
  • Previous front of house restaurant management experience
  • Culinary degree or culinary certificate

Why work for us?

Because it's more than a job. We are passionate people doing meaningful work, motivated by our purpose: To Celebrate Life. Family. Food.

Apply Now

  • Search for jobs by keyword or location.

  • Gather your work history, and if applicable, prepare your resume for submission.

  • Click "Apply Now" to submit your application.


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