Culinary Lead- Operational Chef Leader

Bistro To Go is a well-established hospitality organization based in Pittsburgh, PA, with over twenty years of experience in the catering industry. Recognized as Pittsburgh's Caterer of the Year for 2025 by Pittsburgh Magazine, the company specializes in drop-off catering, full-service weddings, corporate events, and community gatherings. Founder Nikki Heckman has cultivated a company culture centered on investment in and support of her team, believing that when people feel valued, they perform their best work. This commitment to hospitality excellence has made Bistro To Go a leader in the local catering scene, known for its quality, speed, and integrity in service.

This full-time Culinary Leader & Operational Chef Leader role offers a competitive salary range between $95,000 and $115,000 per year, depending on experience, along with bonus potential and a comprehensive benefits package. This position is designed for a dynamic and hands-on leader who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume kitchen environment. The Culinary Leader will work closely with the Executive Culinary Director to oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring consistent food quality and smooth execution of complex events ranging from small drop-off orders to large multi-wedding weekends. The role demands an individual who can bring structure and clarity to operations while maintaining the welcoming culture that has defined Bistro To Go's success.

In this position, you will be the critical leadership presence in the kitchen, responsible for mentoring and guiding a seasoned culinary team through hectic periods, including busy weekends with multiple weddings and last-minute catering requests. The ideal candidate will have exceptional communication skills, the ability to stay composed under pressure, and a knack for resolving conflict while fostering trust and teamwork. With an emphasis on hospitality, presentation, and operational excellence, you will champion standards that preserve the Bistro brand’s reputation for quality and guest experience.

The environment is incredibly dynamic, blending culinary craft with logistical expertise. This role is perfect for a leader who not only enjoys cooking but also appreciates how every detail—from food preparation to event execution—contributes to a seamless guest experience. As Bistro continues to grow and expand, the Culinary Leader will play a key role in shaping the kitchen’s systems and operational routines, supporting expansion into future locations including a hotel partnership. This offers significant growth opportunity, transitioning towards multi-location leadership oversight while maintaining a strong connection to the day-to-day culinary operations.

At Bistro To Go, values like hospitality first, team-first leadership, humility before authority, and grace under pressure are more than just words—they guide every interaction and decision. This culture attracts professionals who value respect, relationship-building, and long-term career development. The company invests heavily in leadership development through programs like Dale Carnegie training and Normative Leadership initiatives, ensuring that team members grow both personally and professionally.

With a focus on health and well-being, Bistro offers benefits including a 401(k) retirement plan with up to 3% company match, wellness pay, paid time off, a 50% employee meal discount, and complimentary daily lunches. Relocation assistance is also available for qualifying candidates. If you are a culinary professional with a passion for quality hospitality and are ready to lead in a challenging, growth-oriented environment, this position at Bistro To Go represents an exciting opportunity to build a rewarding career and make a lasting impact in one of Pittsburgh’s most respected hospitality organizations.