Brewery Executive Chef – Wissahickon Brewing Company (Olde Kensington Taproom)
About Wissahickon Brewing Company
Wissahickon Brewing Company is an award-winning (World Beer Cup, Best of Philly), family-owned and operated brewery with a deep commitment to crafting world-class beverages and creating welcoming, vibrant community spaces. Our newest location in Olde Kensington, Philadelphia, will feature a new taproom and kitchen, coffee shop (Wirlybird Coffee), and kombucha production facility.
Position Overview
We are seeking an Executive Chef to lead the kitchen at our brand-new brewery taproom in Olde Kensington. This is a unique opportunity to be part of a kitchen grand opening and directly shape the menu and kitchen operations. The ideal candidate is a hands-on, creative, and driven culinary professional with a passion for local flavors, innovation, and teamwork.
Our taproom will operate seven days a week, starting with casual breakfast paired with Wirlybird Coffee in the mornings, followed by classic American pub fare for lunch and dinner. There will be plenty of room for the chef’s creativity to shine. Additional details about the vision for the kitchen, including menu development, scheduling, and operations, will be discussed during the interview.
Responsibilities
- Oversee all kitchen operations, including menu design, recipe development, and daily execution.
- Collaborate with management to develop a menu that complements our craft beer, cider, and kombucha offerings.
- Hire, train, and manage a high-performing kitchen team.
- Maintain the highest standards of quality, consistency, and presentation in all dishes.
- Develop and implement systems for inventory, ordering, and cost control.
- Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations, including ServSafe and local codes.
- Monitor and manage kitchen budgets, labor costs, and food costs to meet financial goals.
- Partner with the taproom management team to coordinate food and beverage pairings, events, and special menus.
- Lead the kitchen team through the grand opening process, from equipment setup to first service.
- Foster a positive and collaborative kitchen culture focused on creativity, teamwork, and continuous improvement.
Qualifications
- Minimum 4 years of culinary experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership role (Executive Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or Kitchen Manager).
- Proven experience designing menus and opening a new kitchen is strongly preferred.
- Strong understanding of inventory management, food costing, and labor control.
- Exceptional leadership and communication skills, with a demonstrated ability to inspire and manage a team.
- Passion for using local ingredients and creating dishes that complement craft beverages.
- Current ServSafe certification.
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- A creative mindset, a collaborative spirit, and a passion for hospitality.
Compensation & Benefits
- Starting salary at $65,000; candidate's salary will be based on experience.
- Benefits include health, vision, and dental insurance, paid time off, and 401(k).
