Executive Chef

Peoria, IL, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Benefits

Competitive weekly salary

performance-based bonus opportunities

Generous shift meal and family dining discounts

Comprehensive 'Best in Class' Training and Ongoing Professional Development

Significant Career Advancement and Growth Opportunities

paid time off (PTO)

401(K) retirement savings plan with company match

Tuition Reimbursement Program

Medical, dental, and vision insurance coverage

Involvement in the Champions of Hope Program

Cash referral incentives

Access to the Journey Wellbeing Support Tool

Perkspot Employee Discount Program

robust employee recognition program

Slip resistant shoes reimbursement program

Opportunities for community and charitable involvement

Igniting Dreams educational grant program

Participation in Training and Performance Contests

Job Description

Johnny's Italian Steakhouse is a well-established dining destination located in East Peoria, Illinois, known for its authentic Italian cuisine combined with classic steakhouse offerings. As a popular full-service restaurant, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse prides itself on delivering an exceptional dining experience that blends quality food, welcoming atmosphere, and attentive customer service. The restaurant has garnered a strong local following due to its commitment to traditional recipes, fresh ingredients, and an inviting ambiance that caters to families, professionals, and food enthusiasts alike. Emphasizing both innovation and tradition, Johnny's Italian Steakhouse continuously strives to maintain high culinary standards while adapting to the latest trends in the food industry. The team at Johnny's is passionate about ensuring every guest leaves satisfied, making it a sought-after employer within the East Peoria hospitality scene.

The role of Executive Chef at Johnny's Italian Steakhouse is a vital leadership position responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations and managing the back-of-house staff to ensure timely delivery of outstanding food quality. This full-time position reports directly to the General Manager and offers a competitive salary ranging from $65,000 to $70,000 annually, with benefits including health insurance, dental insurance, vision insurance, 401(k) matching, and food provided. The Executive Chef will be instrumental in running daily kitchen shifts, scheduling staff appropriately to meet guest demands, and maintaining high standards in food preparation, presentation, and kitchen cleanliness. With at least five years of experience in managing a full-service kitchen, the ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills and a team-oriented mindset, capable of motivating and leading kitchen staff, including line cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashing personnel.

Key responsibilities include using labor scheduling matrices to optimize shift scheduling, participating in hiring and performance evaluations, implementing staff incentive programs, and maintaining thorough personnel records. The Executive Chef must ensure strict adherence to safety, emergency, and security procedures while responding quickly and effectively to guest complaints to uphold the restaurant's reputation. Coordination with the front-of-house team is essential to maintain food quality and timely ticket processing. The position also demands managing inventory, food ordering, and working closely with food distributors to control costs and secure the best prices without compromising quality. Ongoing professional development through specialized training programs like Heart University is encouraged to keep skills sharp and aligned with industry standards. This role represents an exciting opportunity for a culinary leader dedicated to operational excellence and passionate about delivering an exceptional dining experience at Johnny's Italian Steakhouse.

Job Requirements

High school diploma or equivalent
Minimum 5 years of experience managing a full service kitchen
Strong interpersonal and communication skills
Ability to work under pressure in a fast paced environment
Knowledge of food safety regulations
Ability to lead and motivate a diverse kitchen team
Willingness to participate in professional training programs
Ability to work full time in person at East Peoria, IL

Job Qualifications

Proven experience in a culinary leadership role, preferably as a Head Chef or Executive Chef in a high-volume restaurant environment
Demonstrated mastery of kitchen operations, including inventory control, food costing, staff scheduling, and budget management
Exceptional leadership and team-building skills, with the ability to train, motivate, and manage a diverse kitchen staff efficiently
A profound passion for producing top-tier food and an uncompromising commitment to quality and detail
Strong communication and organizational skills, crucial for seamless coordination between the back-of-house and front-of-house teams

Job Duties

You hold the ultimate responsibility for ensuring every item that leaves our line is of the highest quality, consistently delicious, and perfectly aligned with the energetic atmosphere our guests expect
This role moves beyond simply cooking
you will manage all kitchen staff, oversee inventory, maintain pristine health and safety standards, and continuously innovate within our core menu
Lead and supervise all back-of-house staff, including hiring, training, and performance management
Develop and implement strategies to ensure consistent food quality, presentation, and recipe adherence across all menu items
Manage kitchen financials, including food cost optimization, inventory management, and minimizing waste
Maintain and enforce the highest standards of sanitation, cleanliness, and organization in compliance with all health and safety regulations
Oversee daily prep work, line execution, and timely fulfillment of all guest orders during peak service periods
Collaborate with the General Manager on menu planning, special promotions, and ensuring a cohesive restaurant operation