Lead Chef & Kitchen Operations Manager – Award-Winning Group

Head Chef / Kitchen Operations Manager

Location: Charleston, SC

Compensation: $80,000 – $90,000 per year

About the Role

An award-winning, nationally recognized restaurant group in Charleston is seeking a disciplined, hands-on Head Chef / Kitchen Manager to lead our back-of-house operations.

Our restaurant thrives on meticulous execution, precision, and consistency. This is an operations-focused leadership role centered on culinary consistency, cleanliness, team development, and kitchen systems.

(Please note: Our core menu is established and highly curated. While there may be occasional opportunities for creative input in the future, the primary focus of this role is on operational excellence, consistency, and mastering our current culinary standards.)

Key Responsibilities

• Hands-on Kitchen Leadership: Work the line regularly and support food prep as needed.
• Team Development: Train, mentor, and coach BOH team members while addressing performance issues promptly.
• Sanitation & Safety: Maintain kitchen cleanliness and organization according to strict DHEC guidelines regarding cleanliness, storage, and cooking temperatures.
• Kitchen Administration: Manage recipes, prep lists, inventory, order guides, labor, food cost controls, variance reports, and daily manager logs.
• Quality & Consistency: Enforce standardized systems, processes, and ticket times across every shift.

Candidate Requirements

• Experience: Minimum 3 years of proven experience as a Head Chef or Kitchen Manager.
• Availability: Full open availability across day, night, and weekend shifts.
• Certifications: ServSafe certified (or ability to become certified shortly after hire).
• Education: High school diploma or equivalent required.
• Skills: Strong communicator, organized delegator, and a hands-on leader who thrives in a systems-driven kitchen.

Benefits & Compensation

• Base Salary: $80,000 – $90,000 per year
• Healthcare: 100% employer-paid health insurance
• Retirement: 401(k) with company match and retirement plan options
• Additional Insurance: Comprehensive dental and vision coverage
• Time Off & Perks: Paid time off (PTO), flexible scheduling, and shift meals provided

If interested in learning more, apply directly here or email your resume and cover letter to Andrew Dodd at andrew@haakerecruiting.com.