Job Overview

briefcase

Employment Type

Full-time
Hourly
moneybag

Compensation

Salary
Range $55,000.00 - $85,000.00
clock

Work Schedule

Day Shifts
Weekend Shifts
diamond

Benefits

hourly pay
Overtime earning potential
no late nights
Stable full-time position
Opportunity to lead kitchen operation
Involvement in menu costing
Inventory control and ordering
supportive work environment

Job Description

The Gables is a premier establishment dedicated to providing exceptional culinary and food service experiences, particularly known for its focus on senior living and healthcare-related dining environments. Located in Fitchburg, this company prides itself on creating an inviting atmosphere where nutrition, taste, and safety converge to meet the unique dietary needs of its clientele. With a commitment to quality and consistency, The Gables emphasizes both the art and science of food preparation, ensuring that every meal served supports the health and satisfaction of its residents.

The opportunity at The Gables is for a Working Chef / Food Service Manager, a role that transcends traditional kitchen management by requiring a hands-on approach to culinary leadership. This position is not merely administrative; it is a dynamic, chef-centric role focused on active participation in daily kitchen operations and direct engagement with food preparation and service. The candidate must excel at balancing the creative and operational aspects of the kitchen, exhibiting culinary skills, leadership, and organizational abilities.

As a Working Chef / Food Service Manager, the individual will play a vital role in maintaining the smooth flow of kitchen activity, supervising a small but dedicated kitchen team, and coordinating seamlessly with approximately 12 front-of-house staff to provide an excellent dining experience. The position requires working primarily during the operational hours of 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM, with no late-night shifts, making it an attractive role for those seeking a stable full-time schedule. The workweek typically spans 40 to 50 hours, including at least one weekend day, with overtime available based on business needs.

The salary range for this full-time, hourly position is $25 to $30 per hour, reflecting the candidate's experience and qualifications, with potential annual earnings approximately between $55,000 and $85,000. This compensation package demonstrates The Gables’ dedication to attracting skilled culinary professionals who are eager to lead, innovate, and maintain high standards of food quality and kitchen efficiency.

In this role, the Working Chef / Food Service Manager will be actively involved in a variety of responsibilities, including preparing meals according to established recipes and standards, managing inventory and supply orders, and leading daily kitchen service while ensuring compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations. Additionally, the chef will assist with menu planning, costing, portion control, and pricing analysis to support financial and operational goals. Maintaining a clean and organized kitchen, training staff, and addressing day-to-day challenges are also integral to the position.

The ideal candidate will be a dependable, professional culinary expert capable of thriving in a fast-paced environment, who enjoys both the practical and leadership aspects of food service management. This role offers a meaningful chance to influence the dining experience positively, support team members, and uphold the high standards of an established and respected organization in Fitchburg.

Why Join The Gables? - Enjoy a chef-focused leadership role that is truly hands-on, not just managerial. - Benefit from a predictable schedule with service hours from morning until early evening and no late nights. - Engage with a small, supportive kitchen team and a full front-of-house staff that facilitate smooth operations. - Participate actively in menu development, inventory control, and cost management to shape the culinary offerings. - Work in a stable, full-time position with competitive hourly pay and overtime opportunities. - Be part of a community that prioritizes nutrition, food safety, and quality, especially tailored to senior care environments.

This is an exceptional career opportunity for culinary professionals passionate about leading with skill and integrity, ensuring a consistent, high-quality dining experience every day at The Gables.

Job Requirements

  • Prefer applicants that already reside within 15 mile radius of The Gables
  • Proven experience as an executive chef or similar senior culinary leadership role, preferably in assisted living or healthcare settings
  • Strong knowledge of nutrition, food safety, and dietary restrictions for seniors
  • Experience with food costing, inventory management, and vendor negotiations
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills
  • ServSafe certification or equivalent food safety credentials required
  • Proficiency with culinary software and online ordering systems is a plus

Job Qualifications

  • Prior chef, lead cook, kitchen manager, or food service management experience required
  • Must be willing and able to work on the line as a primary part of the job
  • Strong cooking skills and practical kitchen knowledge required
  • Experience with inventory management, food ordering, portion control, and menu costing preferred
  • Ability to lead a small kitchen team while remaining hands-on
  • Ability to communicate effectively with front-of-house staff and management
  • Strong organizational skills and attention to cleanliness
  • Dependable, professional, and able to work independently
  • Food safety certification preferred or willingness to obtain
  • Must be comfortable in a role that includes cooking, cleaning, supervising, ordering, and problem-solving

Job Duties

  • Work on the line and actively participate in daily food preparation and service
  • Prepare meals consistently according to established standards, recipes, and presentation expectations
  • Lead daily kitchen operations during scheduled service periods
  • Supervise and support kitchen staff, including cooks, prep staff, dishwashing, and cleaning responsibilities
  • Coordinate food timing and communication between the kitchen and approximately 12 front-of-house staff
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen throughout the day
  • Take responsibility for daily cleaning standards, kitchen organization, and end-of-shift procedures
  • Manage food inventory and maintain proper stock levels
  • Place food and supply orders in a timely and cost-conscious manner
  • Monitor food usage, reduce waste, and maintain proper storage, labeling, and rotation procedures
  • Assist with menu planning, menu costing, portion control, and pricing analysis
  • Maintain consistency in recipes, preparation, presentation, and quality
  • Train and coach kitchen staff on food preparation, cleanliness, safety, and efficiency
  • Assist with scheduling and staffing needs for kitchen operations
  • Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and workplace standards
  • Address day-to-day operational issues quickly and professionally
  • Work with ownership/leadership to improve systems, control costs, and maintain a reliable dining operation

Job Criteria

Experience

Expert Level (7+ years)


Job Location

Your Profile Is Visible To Hiring Managers Across OysterLink.

We'll match you with best jobs

Get job offers faster

Business woman
Business man
Search For More Opportunities:

How Candidates Get Hired Faster

Apply to 2–3 similar roles

Complete profile & get best matches

Check new opportunities daily

Woman chef
Man chef