Position Overview
The Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring consistency in food quality, managing costs, leading the team, and maintaining high standards during service.
This role requires strong communication and collaboration, working directly with the owner and front-of-house team, while also being hands-on in the kitchen and able to execute during service.
Key Responsibilities
Kitchen Leadership & Team Development
Lead and manage BOH team with clear direction and accountabilityTrain, coach, and develop kitchen staffSet the tone for professionalism, urgency, and teamworkHold staff accountable to standards and performanceFood Quality & Execution
Cook on the line and lead by example during serviceEnsure all food is executed consistently and to recipeMaintain plating and portion standardsOversee prep, line execution, and service flowEnsure the kitchen meets ticket times and maintains speed without sacrificing qualityFood Cost & Inventory Control
Manage and maintain target food cost percentagesOversee ordering, inventory, and waste reductionTrack usage and adjust ordering based on business needsLabor Management & Scheduling
Create and manage schedules for the entire BOH teamStaff appropriately for daily service, off-site events, and cateringControl labor cost while maintaining efficiencyVendor Relations & Ordering
Negotiate with vendors for best pricing and qualityPlace and manage orders with accuracy and consistencyMaintain strong vendor relationshipsMenu Development & Innovation
Contribute to menu development and seasonal itemsBring creative ideas while staying aligned with brand identityMaintain consistency with The Empanada Lady flavors and standardsOperations & Systems
Use a laptop for daily operations including emails, scheduling, and communicationManage BOH communication through email and digital toolsImplement and maintain kitchen systems and organizationEnsure cleanliness, food safety, and compliance standardsCommunication & Collaboration
Work directly with the owner on operations, performance, and strategic growthMaintain consistent communication with the front-of-house team to ensure smooth serviceAlign BOH and FOH on reservations, large parties, catering, and service flowParticipate in meetings and provide updates on kitchen performance and needsQualifications
Minimum 3 years of kitchen experience (leadership experience preferred)Experience as a Head Chef or strong Sous Chef ready to step into leadershipStrong understanding of food cost, labor cost, and kitchen operationsExperience with scheduling, inventory, and ordering systemsComfortable using a laptop, email, and digital tools for daily operationsAbility to lead a team in a fast-paced environmentAbility to work the line efficiently and maintain ticket times during high-volume serviceStrong communication and problem-solving skillsPassion for culture-driven food and hospitalityPhysical Requirements
Ability to stand for long periodsAbility to lift 35 lbs or moreAbility to work nights, weekends, and high-volume shiftsCompany DescriptionThe Empanada Lady is a culture-driven restaurant and catering brand rooted in Puerto Rican heritage, bold flavors, and intentional hospitality. Founded in Baltimore, the brand has grown from humble beginnings into a recognized name known for delivering both quality food and a memorable guest experience.
We specialize in high-volume service, catering, and community-centered events, with a strong focus on consistency, efficiency, and execution. Our team operates in a fast-paced environment where standards are high and accountability is expected across all roles.
As we continue to expand, our focus remains on building strong systems, developing leadership within our team, and creating opportunities for growth both inside and outside of the kitchen. The Empanada Lady is committed to preserving culture, elevating the guest experience, and operating with purpose in everything we do.
Company DescriptionThe Empanada Lady is a culture-driven restaurant and catering brand rooted in Puerto Rican heritage, bold flavors, and intentional hospitality. Founded in Baltimore, the brand has grown from humble beginnings into a recognized name known for delivering both quality food and a memorable guest experience.\r\n\r\nWe specialize in high-volume service, catering, and community-centered events, with a strong focus on consistency, efficiency, and execution. Our team operates in a fast-paced environment where standards are high and accountability is expected across all roles.\r\n\r\nAs we continue to expand, our focus remains on building strong systems, developing leadership within our team, and creating opportunities for growth both inside and outside of the kitchen. The Empanada Lady is committed to preserving culture, elevating the guest experience, and operating with purpose in everything we do. Read Less