Job Title: Culinary Field Chef Classification: Exempt
Reports to: Director of Culinary
Job Summary:
The Culinary Field Chef supports day-to-day field culinary operations across all foodservice programs, ensuring consistent execution of Vallarta standards. This role provides hands-on operational support, coaching, and culinary expertise to Kitchen Managers and foodservice teams, while driving sales growth, product consistency, and an exceptional guest experience across all locations.
This position serves as a key field resource, supporting menu execution, recipe adherence, training, and operational improvements. The Culinary Field Chef collaborates closely with the Corporate Chef and cross-functional teams to support menu development, product rollouts, and company-wide culinary initiatives.
The role plays a critical part in new store openings, training execution, and ongoing operational support, with approximately 80% of time spent in field locations.
Key Responsibilities:
- Provide culinary and operational support across all foodservice concepts (Taqueria, Tortilleria, Restaurants, etc.)
- Coach and support Kitchen Managers on execution, standards, and guest service
- Ensure consistency in recipes, portioning, presentation, and flavor profiles
- Lead training and field execution of new menu items and programs
- Support product development and assist with implementation in the field
- Identify operational improvements to improve cost, efficiency, and quality
- Reinforce company standards, culture, and guest experience expectations
- Monitor performance and support business initiatives aligned with company goals
Operational Responsibilities:
- Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards
- Support food cost control, inventory, and operational reporting
- Maintain kitchen cleanliness, organization, and efficiency
- Assist with new store openings, remodels, and training execution
- Ensure consistency of recipes, procedures, and training materials
- Assist with staffing, onboarding, and team development as needed
Food Quality & Compliance:
- Enforce recipe adherence, portion control, and food quality standards
- Maintain HACCP compliance and food safety procedures
- Monitor temperature control, storage, and handling practices
- Conduct quality checks for taste, appearance, and consistency
Customer Service & Experience:
- Deliver and model Vallarta’s Nuestra CASA service standards
- Support strong guest satisfaction and service execution
- Address customer feedback professionally and promptly
Team Leadership & Development:
- Provide coaching, training, and development to culinary teams
- Promote accountability, teamwork, and performance standards
- Partner with leadership on performance and operational needs
Collaboration & Communication:
- Support operations across Taqueria, Prepared Foods, Juice Bar, Grab & Go, and Catering as assigned.
- Maintain clear communication with leadership regarding production needs, shortages, or operational challenges.
- Ensure timely escalation of issues that may impact food safety, quality, or service.
Safety:
- Enforce all safety procedures and proper equipment use
- Report incidents and maintain safe working conditions
- Ensure adherence to company policies and standards
Other Duties:
- Support all current and future culinary programs
- Perform other duties as assigned
Required Education and Experience:
- Minimum 5+ years in culinary, restaurant, or multi-unit operations leadership
- Strong experience in foodservice operations and team development
- Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred
- Strong knowledge of food cost, labor, and inventory controls
- Ability to train and lead in a fast-paced environment
- High School Diploma required; Culinary Degree preferred
- Equivalent experience may be considered
Working Conditions:
- Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment
- Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.)
- Exposure to hot/cold environments and kitchen equipment
- Moderate to loud noise levels
Position Type/Expected Hours of Work
This is an exempt position. Work schedules may vary based on business needs, requiring flexibility in hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Approximately 80% of travel is required within the company's operating regions, including overnight stays. Mileage reimbursement is provided for approved business travel.
This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and employees may perform other duties as directed. All employees are expected to perform any reasonable task or request that is consistent with fulfilling company goals and objectives.