Head Chef

Are you looking for a job that ACTUALLY values you, your hard work and shows that appreciation with advancement? How would you like to be par of a winning team in a fast-paced, fast-growing organization that’s on a mission to change one MILLION lives per year? We're looking to elevate the world views of Korean American restaurants and continue to create our own path. If you want to be a part of the A team, KEEP READING. This isn’t a regular burger joint, this isn’t a doughnut shop, and we aren't a hole in the wall joint. We’re doing something different here – we’re always looking to improve, always striving to get better, and we’re looking for the right people to join us. 

Our ideal Head Chef takes initiative, loves to make our guests smile and puts 110% into everything they do. Nowon refuses to settle for anything less than extraordinarily high standards but we believe for the right person, extraordinarily high standards are their normal. If you’re the right person for this job, you wouldn’t consider doing anything less.

Does your boss take you for granted? Are you starving for an opportunity to take on new challenges? Are you ready to see what you can accomplish in a fast-paced environment where being a tiny bit fanatical is a good thing? Are you ready to join an organization that eats passion for breakfast and leaves mediocrity in the trash?

If you’re self-motivated, self-disciplined, love being in a rapidly evolving work environment and want to lead and be a part of a dynamic team that thrives on building relationships with our guests, each other, and the community, then we want to hear from you!

Check us out at www.nowonusa.com and see what we’re all about, then get in touch with us and tell us why you would be a perfect fit for our team!

 This isn’t like every other job you’ve had where you’re forced to stay inside the ‘box’. At Nowon, we light that box on fire and burn it to the ground. Come join our team!


Head Chef Job Description 

Role Overview: 

The Head Chef will lead the culinary team and shape the gastronomic direction of the restaurant. They will oversee all aspects of the kitchen, from menu creation to kitchen management, to deliver unparalleled dining experiences and uphold our reputation as a culinary destination.

Role Highlights: 

• Culinary Vision: Maintain the culinary brand & identity and direction of our prestigious restaurant.
• Menu Innovation: Lead creative menu design and refinement, showcasing your culinary mastery.
• Kitchen Mastery: Oversee kitchen operations and uphold the highest standards of excellence.
• Team Leadership: Mentor and lead a collaborative and high-performing kitchen team.
• Financial Stewardship: Manage food costs, budgets, and profitability with strategic finesse.
• Safety Standards: Ensure strict adherence to DOH food safety and sanitation regulations.
• Culinary Exploration: Stay at the forefront of culinary trends, techniques, and ingredients.
• Guest Experience: Deliver extraordinary dining experiences through innovation and precision.

Reporting Lines: 

The Head Chef reports directly to the General Manager with a dotted line to the Owner/ Proprietor and Director of Operations. 

Roles and Responsibilities:

• Develop and execute a creative culinary program that aligns with the restaurant's concept.
• Lead menu design, innovation, and refinement, showcasing your culinary expertise and artistic flair.
• Regularly participate in culinary R&D to ideate new dish ideas, recipes and seasonal menu changes. 
• Oversee kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, and plating, to ensure excellence and consistency.
• Manage and maintain kitchen recipe books and allergy charts, updating regularly as necessary. 
• Work with the management team in deciding  employee of the month. 
• Oversee the hiring, training and performance management of all back-of-house restaurant staff.
• Manage and mentor the kitchen staff, foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
• Collaborate with suppliers to source high-quality ingredients, ensuring fresh and finest products
• Control, track and manage food costs, inventory, and waste management to achieve financial goals and sustainability; Track invoices for consistency and report any irregularities. 
• Create and enforce food safety and sanitation standards, maintain a clean, safe kitchen environment.
• Lead kitchen training programs to enhance skills, and maintain a high level of culinary expertise.
• Handle low - and mid-level staff issues, including disciplinary action and write-ups; Escalate any issues to HR as needed and for assistance when necessary. 
• Ensure seamless communication between kitchen and front-of-house staff  and upper management to deliver exceptional guest experiences.
• File incident reports with HR as needed
• Execute staff scheduling, payroll, and labor management to ensure efficient staffing levels while controlling expenses.

Requirements:

• At least 2-5 years of experience as an Head Chef in a high-end restaurant or culinary establishment.
• Culinary degree or equivalent education in culinary arts is preferred but not mandatory.
• Demonstrated mastery of various cooking techniques, cuisines, and presentation styles.
• Strong leadership and team-building skills, a track record of developing and mentoring kitchen staff.
• Creative mindset and passion for culinary innovation, pushing flavor and presentation.
• Financial acumen with the ability to manage food costs, budgets, and profitability.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, fostering positive relationships with staff 
• Expert in DOH food safety and sanitation regulations, ensuring a hygienic kitchen environment.
• Flexibility to work varied shifts, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Reasonable accommodations can be arranged upon request for candidates with disabilities.
Nowon is an equal opportunity employer.