Executive Chef (Waco, TX)

Opals is a well-established restaurant renowned for its Oyster and Seafood Bar concept, offering a unique dining experience centered around fresh seafood and exceptional service. The restaurant prides itself on quality, freshness, and creating a welcoming atmosphere for its guests. Opals operates in a fast-paced, moderate to high volume environment, serving locals and tourists alike with a passion for seafood and an unwavering commitment to culinary excellence. The restaurant is dedicated to maintaining high operational standards, employing skilled professionals who share a passion for food and customer satisfaction.

We are seeking an experienced Executive Chef to take charge of the daily operations at Opals, focusing on overseeing the Oyster and Seafood Bar as a central component of the restaurant's offerings. This leadership role encompasses menu design, operational management, and comprehensive staff supervision. The Executive Chef will be the driving force behind maintaining the highest standards in food quality, presentation, and safety, all while managing a dynamic team of cooks and restaurant staff. This position demands strong leadership skills, exceptional organizational abilities, and a hands-on approach to managing kitchen operations in a high-volume setting.

The Executive Chef will be responsible for hiring, training, and supporting the staff to ensure smooth operations and consistent delivery of outstanding culinary experiences. A key part of this position is enforcing compliance with food safety standards, particularly FIFO (First In, First Out) inventory management, and allergy/dietary accommodations to cater to diverse guest needs. Meticulous attention to detail and time management will be crucial in taking ownership of daily tasks and ensuring that all dishes meet the restaurant's quality benchmarks and are served punctually.

In addition to daily operational duties, the Executive Chef will lead coaching and disciplinary discussions with the team as required, fostering a positive and productive working environment focused on growth and development. The role requires adaptability within an ever-changing restaurant atmosphere and a passion for inspiring a positive team culture. Through dynamic leadership, the Executive Chef will motivate and energize the staff, driving sales growth and optimizing cost control of goods. This role is ideal for candidates enthusiastic about culinary innovation, team leadership, and customer satisfaction in a boutique seafood restaurant context.

Candidates must possess at least two years of experience in a similar executive chef role within full-service, moderate to high volume restaurants and hold a valid Food Manager Certification. Flexibility to work weekends and holidays is mandatory given the nature of the hospitality industry. If you seek a challenging yet rewarding position that blends culinary expertise with leadership responsibilities, Opals offers an exceptional opportunity to advance your career and make a significant impact in a respected restaurant setting.