Water Grill San Diego logo

Executive Chef/Chef

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Range $105,000.00 - $125,000.00
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Work Schedule

Standard Hours
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Benefits

competitive salary
Paid vacation
sick days
dining discount
401k with match
Education Reimbursement
Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life insurance
pet healthcare savings account

Job Description

The Water Grill is a renowned seafood restaurant in Southern California, boasting over 25 years of culinary excellence. Known for its premium and fresh fish dishes, it has earned accolades such as "the best seafood in Southern California" from the internationally recognized Zagat Guide. This establishment prides itself on delivering superior quality and innovative seafood preparations that delight the palates of seafood enthusiasts and casual diners alike. As a prominent player in the competitive Southern California dining scene, Water Grill offers a sophisticated and dynamic culinary experience in an upscale yet welcoming environment. Over the years, it has built a loyal clientele who appreciate both the craftsmanship behind every dish and the warm hospitality that defines the restaurant's atmosphere.

The role of Executive Chef at Water Grill is a prestigious leadership position that demands a blend of culinary mastery, operational expertise, and team management skills. Positioned as a key member of the restaurant's leadership team, the Executive Chef partners closely with the General Manager to uphold the restaurant's high standards and ensure smooth kitchen operations. This role encompasses overseeing all aspects of kitchen management, including food quality control, inventory, staffing, scheduling, training, and financial performance. The Executive Chef leads by example, fostering a culture of excellence, efficiency, and consistency in food preparation and presentation. This position also involves mentoring and developing kitchen staff, from line cooks to dishwashers, enabling their growth and cross-training to support operational flexibility.

Those who join Water Grill as Executive Chef become part of a stable and supportive company with a proven track record spanning more than three decades. The organization values continuous professional development, offering comprehensive training in financial acumen, quality assurance, and leadership. The Executive Chef has the unique opportunity to engage with all aspects of restaurant operations, from sophisticated operating systems and product-focused menus to innovative restaurant concepts and designs. Compensation for this role ranges from $105,000 to $125,000 annually, with a realized bonus based on performance. Additional benefits include paid vacation and sick days, dining discounts for the chef and guests, 401k with company match, educational reimbursement, and comprehensive medical, dental, vision, life insurance, as well as a pet healthcare savings account.

Water Grill’s Executive Chefs are held to high standards, expected to be ambassadors of the restaurant’s hospitality and culinary excellence. This role requires attention to detail, problem-solving skill, and a positive attitude when interacting with team members and guests alike. The successful candidate will be standards-driven and vigilant, exhibiting integrity and professionalism in every aspect of their work. This position offers a rich career path driven by individual goals and supported by the breadth of tools and expertise available within the company, making it an ideal opportunity for chefs aspiring to grow as industry leaders.

Job Requirements

  • Minimum 21 years of age
  • 4 years kitchen management experience in a high-volume full service restaurant
  • high school graduate
  • culinary training
  • ability to analyze financial reports
  • ability to communicate verbally and in writing in English
  • physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs
  • ability to carry items up to 120 feet
  • ability to reach up to 6 feet
  • ability to work off counter heights of 36 to 42 inches
  • ability to maneuver through narrow spaces as small as 12 inches

Job Qualifications

  • Minimum 21 years of age
  • high school graduate
  • culinary training
  • 4 years kitchen management experience in a high-volume full service restaurant
  • ability to analyze financial reports
  • ability to communicate verbally and in writing in English
  • comprehensive knowledge of cooking techniques
  • knowledge of menu items, preparation methods, ingredients and quality standards
  • physical ability to lift up to 40 lbs
  • ability to reach up to 6 feet
  • able to work in confined spaces
  • capable of moving through narrow aisles and spaces

Job Duties

  • Complete opening and closing duties as assigned
  • create prep lists for kitchen crew
  • support preparation of all food items for meal periods
  • monitor cleanliness, sanitation and organization of stations
  • troubleshoot deficiencies in food or safety hazards
  • develop kitchen crew through cross training and promotion
  • lead roll out programs for menu and recipe changes
  • approve kitchen crew schedules
  • conduct monthly inventory
  • communicate with management on financials
  • ensure food meets recipe specifications and quality standards
  • inspect dishes before service
  • create and execute corrective action plans
  • interview and select kitchen crew
  • conduct performance reviews
  • interact with guests and handle complaints
  • lead training sessions and kitchen meetings

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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