THE OPTIMIST EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF - UP TO $80K/yr. + BONUS (Germantown)

Rocket Farm Restaurants is a renowned hospitality group known for its commitment to a culture rooted in mutual respect, dignity, and care. Their philosophy, "We serve the person who is serving the guest," emphasizes a strong internal culture where employees are treated with the same level of respect and consideration as guests. This ethos not only creates a positive and supportive work environment but also ensures that customers receive exceptional service and quality culinary experiences. The group operates several restaurants across the United States, including locations in Atlanta, Charlotte, Nashville, Houston, Raleigh, and Winter Park, highlighting its growing footprint in various vibrant food scenes.

The Optimist, one of Rocket Farm's signature establishments located in Nashville's Germantown neighborhood, is dedicated to offering casual, wood-fired fare with a focus on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood. The restaurant aims to transport guests coast to coast through its carefully crafted menu and inviting atmosphere. This vibrant venue seeks to provide a consistently outstanding dining experience, anchored by culinary excellence and attentive service.

The Optimist is currently seeking a dedicated and skilled Executive Sous Chef to join their team. This full-time position comes with a competitive salary range of $65,000 to $80,000 annually, depending on experience, along with a generous quarterly bonus program. Full benefits eligibility begins after 30 days of employment, including major medical, dental, vision, and life insurance coverage.

As the Executive Sous Chef, you will take on a crucial leadership role within the kitchen operations. You will be responsible for overseeing the day-to-day activities across all kitchen areas, including production, preparation, private parties, special events, stewarding, purchasing, and receiving. This role demands a professional who can ensure that all culinary staff produce menu items consistently at the highest standards. You will be expected to manage the kitchen effectively in the Executive Chef's absence, leading with calm, composure, and precision even under pressure.

The ideal candidate will bring at least five years of progressive culinary experience, including a minimum of two years in a Sous Chef capacity. Strong leadership skills, an ability to work collaboratively with a cohesive team, and a focus on operational efficiency are essential. You will be tasked with monitoring culinary budgets, managing labor costs, scheduling, and overtime to maximize productivity and guarantee guest satisfaction.

Joining The Optimist means becoming part of a dynamic, innovative, and heartfelt community devoted to culinary artistry and outstanding hospitality. The company fosters a supportive culture and ethical work environment, providing opportunities for dynamic performance-based raises and promotions. Employees enjoy paid time off, childbirth recovery leave, parental leave, significant long-term retention bonuses, and family time on most major holidays. Additionally, team members receive a 50% discount across all Rocket Farm Restaurants, access to Rocket Farm University for leadership development, and involvement in employee-led mentorship programs, advisory councils, and safety committees.

This role offers a unique opportunity to grow professionally within a respected restaurant group while contributing to a vibrant and meaningful dining experience. Rocket Farm Restaurants is an equal opportunity employer committed to upholding federal employment laws and ensuring a fair hiring process for all candidates. If you are passionate about culinary excellence, leadership, and working within a culture that values respect and care, The Optimist invites you to apply and join their innovative team.