Executive Kitchen Manager

Job Overview

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Employment Type

Full-time
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Compensation

Salary
Range $84,000.00 - $100,000.00
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Work Schedule

Flexible
Weekend Shifts
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Benefits

Dining and carryout discount
Retail wine discount
Discount on retail and private events
monthly complimentary wine tasting for two
Medical insurance
prescription insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
telehealth
Wellness discount
401(k) with Company Match
Health savings account
flexible savings account
long-term disability insurance
Voluntary Short-Term Disability Insurance
Basic Life and AD&D insurance
Paid parental leave
Paid Time Off
Team member relief program
Wellness and mental health support
Insurance coverage (pet, life, auto, home/property)
employee discounts on goods and services
Team member rewards
Milestone recognition
Referral bonuses
Career development opportunities

Job Description

Cooper's Hawk is a unique lifestyle brand that combines a Napa-style tasting room with a modern, casual full-service restaurant, bar, and private event space. Since its founding in 2005, it has delivered the rich experience of Napa Valley through its award-winning wines and thoughtfully crafted scratch kitchen menu. Each dish is designed to complement their wines perfectly, offering guests a culinary journey paired with exceptional hospitality. Additionally, Cooper's Hawk operates one of the world's largest wine clubs, providing exclusive benefits to members such as curated dining and travel experiences. Recently, the brand expanded its portfolio with Piccolo Buco by Cooper's Hawk, a concept inspired by the vibrant flavors of Rome, further broadening its unique culinary offerings. Cooper's Hawk prides itself on creating memorable guest experiences and fostering a strong community and culture among its team members, emphasizing respect, positivity, and professional growth.

The Executive Kitchen Manager (EKM) role at Cooper's Hawk is a pivotal leadership position within their fast-paced, high-volume scratch kitchen environment. This role demands a culinary leader who can inspire and guide the kitchen team in delivering excellence in food quality, consistency, safety, and service while maintaining a warm and hospitable atmosphere. The EKM collaborates closely with the culinary team to drive the execution of both classic and new menu items, ensuring every plate reflects the brand's uncompromising standards and commitment to guest satisfaction. Emphasizing leadership by example, coaching, and active involvement, the EKM shapes a kitchen culture that supports team growth and morale. This role includes operational responsibilities such as overseeing kitchen safety, inventory management, scheduling, hiring, and training, in addition to partnering with front-of-house management to maintain smooth service flows and meet financial goals.

The offered compensation range for this full-time position is between $84,000 and $100,000 annually, complemented by a potential 15% bonus. The salary is determined based on factors such as the candidate's experience, skill set, qualifications, and internal pay equity. Cooper's Hawk values its employees by offering comprehensive benefits, including medical, prescription, dental, vision coverage, along with wellness discounts. Employees enjoy substantial discounts on dining, carryout, retail wines, and private events, plus monthly complimentary wine tastings. Additional perks include a 401(k) plan with company matching, health and flexible savings accounts, various disability and life insurance options, paid parental leave, paid time off, and access to a team member relief program. The company emphasizes career development opportunities, employee recognition programs, and wellness and mental health support, highlighting their commitment to employee well-being and growth.

Success in this role is driven by a proactive and responsible approach to managing kitchen operations, demonstrating strong communication skills, financial acumen, and a passion for culinary excellence. The Executive Kitchen Manager must be able to work extended hours, including weekends and holidays, and maintain high energy levels over long shifts. Cooper's Hawk is an equal opportunity employer committed to inclusivity and reasonable accommodations throughout the employment process. Candidates must be at least 21 years old and have previous kitchen management experience, preferably in a scratch kitchen setting. The company advocates a two-year commitment for this leadership role to foster stability and growth within their team.

If you are passionate about culinary leadership, enjoy working in a dynamic, high-volume kitchen, and want to be part of an innovative brand that values both its guests and employees, this Executive Kitchen Manager opportunity at Cooper's Hawk might be the perfect next step in your career.

Job Requirements

  • 2-3 years of kitchen management experience in a full-service restaurant
  • scratch kitchen experience preferred
  • excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • a minimum age requirement of 21 years
  • ability to read, understand and communicate in English
  • demonstrates financial acumen
  • proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
  • preferred certifications include ServSafe and state/local licensing requirements
  • must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs
  • must be able to stand for at least 10 hours per shift
  • must have the ability to work 50-60 hours per week
  • must be able to work flexible shifts and schedules, inclusive of weekends and some holidays

Job Qualifications

  • 2-3 years of kitchen management experience in a full-service restaurant
  • scratch kitchen experience preferred
  • excellent verbal and written communication skills
  • demonstrates financial acumen
  • proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
  • preferred certifications include ServSafe and state/local licensing requirements
  • ability to read, understand and communicate in English

Job Duties

  • Oversee overall kitchen operations and lead the culinary team
  • partner with the culinary team to embrace and execute new menu items
  • use tools like POS systems, scheduling software, inventory/ordering systems, and Microsoft Office to stay organized
  • maintain a safe and healthy work environment and uphold food safety standards
  • lead menu rollouts, kitchen initiatives, and private events, including monthly Wine Club dinners
  • oversee final interviews and approve kitchen Team Member hiring decisions
  • introduce and supervise the implementation of kitchen training materials
  • review and approve schedules aligned with labor forecasting
  • demonstrate deep knowledge of food quality, recipes, and kitchen systems
  • maximize financial and operational results through effective planning and execution
  • ensure strong collaboration between kitchen and front-of-house operations
  • lead Community meetings and foster open communication across the team
  • work closely with management teams to conduct weekly food inventory
  • partner with the General Manager and other leaders to achieve restaurant goals
  • ensure adherence to policies
  • manage and train others on standard operating systems/procedures
  • represent Cooper’s Hawk values by creating a respectful, positive, and professional kitchen culture
  • develop and retain Managers and Team Members through coaching/mentorship
  • ensure every dish reflects commitment to quality and uncompromising hospitality
  • inspire the team to take pride in their work and deliver exceptional food
  • celebrate team achievements and milestones
  • lead with passion and foster a kitchen environment that values excellence

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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