Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager

Cooper's Hawk Winery•Arlington Heights, IL

34d•$70,000 - $83,000

About The Position

As an Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager at Cooper's Hawk, you'll help lead a high-volume, scratch kitchen where culinary creativity meets operational excellence. You'll partner closely with the Executive Kitchen Manager to ensure exceptional food quality, consistency, and safety while coaching and inspiring your team. With a focus on leadership, training, and execution, you'll help deliver an outstanding guest experience and support the growth of our culinary team. Assistant Executive Kitchen Manager Compensation range is $70,000-$83,000/year + 10% bonus potential. The final offered salary will be based on several factors, including but not limited to the candidate's depth of experience, skill set, qualifications, and internal pay equity.

Requirements

2-3 years of management experience in a full-service restaurant environment. Scratch kitchen experience preferred
Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Ability to read, understand and communicate in English
Demonstrates financial acumen
Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite
Preferred certifications include ServSafe and state/local licensing requirements
Must be able to lift and carry up to 50 lbs.
Must be able to stand for at least 10 hours per shift
Must have the ability to work 50-60 hours per week
Must be able to work flexible shifts and schedules, inclusive of weekends and some holidays

Nice To Haves

Preferred certifications include ServSafe and state/local licensing requirements
2-3 years of management experience in a full-service restaurant environment. Scratch kitchen experience preferred

Responsibilities

Direct kitchen operations, including Kitchen Managers and Team Members across dish, prep, and line stations
Review schedules and manage assigned operating systems
Use tools like POS systems, scheduling software, ordering/inventory systems, and Microsoft Office to stay organized
Conduct line checks, create prep lists, and oversee supply ordering and inventory
Maintain a safe and healthy work environment and uphold food safety standards
Lead kitchen training, food execution, new menu roll-outs and system initiatives
Participate in hourly kitchen Team Member hiring
Conduct side-by-sides with Team Members to support development and performance
Be accountable for food preparation knowledge and quality standards
Assist with weekly inventory procedures and maximize financial results
Ensure strong communication and collaboration between kitchen and front-of-house operations to ensure smooth operations
Lead Community meetings and coach Managers to align on goals and execution
Partner with the Executive Kitchen Manager and General Manager to drive results
Execute private events, including monthly themed Wine Club dinner
Represent Cooper's Hawk values and create a respectful, positive, and professional kitchen culture
Develop and retain Kitchen Managers and Team Members through coaching and mentorship
Lead by example and inspire pride in culinary standards, excellence and execution
Celebrate team wins and milestones

Benefits

50 percent Dining and Carryout Discount
40 percent Retail Wine Discount
20 percent Discount on Retail and Private Events
Monthly Complimentary Wine Tasting for Two
Medical, Prescription, Dental, Vision and Telehealth plus Wellness Discount
401(k) with Company Match
Health & Flexible Savings Accounts- Health and Dependent Care
Long-Term Disability
Voluntary Short-Term Disability
Basic Life and AD&D Insurance (with option to purchase additional coverage)
Paid Parental Leave
Paid Time Off
Access to Team Member Relief Program
Wellness and Mental Health Support
"Everyday Benefits" Program to include insurance coverage (pet, life, auto, home/property) and employee discounts on goods and services
Team Member Rewards, Milestone Recognition and Referral Bonuses
Career Development Opportunities