Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager

Din Tai Fung North America is a globally recognized restaurant brand known for delivering exceptional Asian cuisine with an emphasis on quality, consistency, and operational excellence. Located in Manhattan at Paramount Plaza, 1633 Broadway New York, 10019, the company prides itself on fostering a respectful and inclusive workplace culture while serving authentic dishes that have earned widespread acclaim. As a premium dining establishment, Din Tai Fung North America combines traditional flavors with modern culinary techniques to provide guests with an extraordinary dining experience. The brand is committed to maintaining high standards across all locations and nurturing an environment where employees are empowered to grow and contribute meaningfully.

The role of Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager (AEKM) at Din Tai Fung North America entails a critical leadership position within the kitchen operations. This role requires a dynamic, organized individual who can efficiently support the kitchen's day-to-day functions while ensuring strict adherence to food safety regulations, brand standards, and operational efficiency. The AEKM is instrumental in managing kitchen staff, supporting workforce scheduling, overseeing inventory and ordering processes, and ensuring that the entire team is trained on the latest procedures and compliance requirements. This position offers an annual base salary ranging from $121,700 to $152,100, along with eligibility for the annual incentive plan based on personal and company performance, reflecting the importance of this role within the organization's executive structure.

In this role, the Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager collaborates closely with the Executive Kitchen Manager to plan staffing needs, manage food cost controls (COG), and implement Key Performance Indicator (KPI) action plans geared towards maintaining operational excellence. The AEKM is also responsible for recruiting and hiring non-exempt back-of-house staff and participating in managerial hiring decisions, ensuring the kitchen is staffed with qualified individuals who uphold the brand's values. Additionally, the AEKM plays a critical role in training and certifying team members on specialized kitchen stations such as Wok, Noodle, and Prep to maintain high technical standards and ensure quality and consistency.

Beyond operational tasks, the AEKM engages actively in employee performance management through coaching, documentation of corrective actions, and facilitating developmental opportunities for kitchen managers and team members. This position demands a hands-on approach, including participation in internal investigations in partnership with Human Resources, and maintaining clear and effective communications related to brand rollouts, promotions, or procedural changes.

The position further demands physical stamina, including the ability to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds, while working in varied temperature environments from cold refrigeration areas to hot kitchen lines. Working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, the Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager must bring a strong financial acumen, understanding of inventory and ordering processes, and proven restaurant management experience ideally within casual or upscale casual dining formats. This role not only contributes to the operational success of the kitchen but also supports the overall guest experience by ensuring that Din Tai Fung North America continues to deliver quality and consistency in every dish served.

Din Tai Fung North America offers a comprehensive benefits package designed to support employees’ health, well-being, and personal growth. These include competitive pay, employer contributions to medical insurance for individuals and eligible dependents, dental and vision insurance, life insurance, health savings accounts, commuter spending accounts, 401(k) plans with company match, employee assistance programs, discounts, meal benefits, paid time off, and wellness days. The company actively promotes from within, providing ample opportunities for career advancement and growth within the organization.

Being an equal opportunity employer, Din Tai Fung North America values diversity and inclusion, ensuring a welcoming workplace for all employees regardless of race, gender, age, or other protected statuses. This role requires applicants to be at least 18 years old and legally authorized to work in the United States, with employment verification conducted through E-Verify. The Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager position offers a unique opportunity to join a respected global brand while advancing one's career in restaurant management with excellent remuneration and professional development prospects.