Chef

DeVita & Hancock Hospitality•Wading River, NY

10d

About The Position

Wading River Restaurant is seeking a hands-on Head Cook to lead day-to-day culinary execution in a gastro pub environment. This is a working role for a skilled line cook leader who thrives in service, sets the pace on the line, and holds high standards for prep, consistency, cleanliness, and food safety. The Head Cook will be part of the line rotation and is expected to actively cook during service—this is not a clipboard/office chef position.

Requirements

3+ years of line cook experience in a gastro pub, chef-driven casual, or high-volume scratch kitchen
Demonstrated ability to work multiple stations and support the line during busy service
Strong knowledge of prep, timing, organization, and service execution
Solid understanding of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen best practices
Reliable, accountable, and calm under pressure
Flexible availability, including nights/weekends as needed

Nice To Haves

Gastro pub experience with consistent, high-quality execution
A true working kitchen leader—hands-on, service-driven, and team-oriented
Organized, fast, and detail-focused with strong station discipline
Not a clipboard chef—must be able to jump on the line and cook

Responsibilities

Line Leadership & Execution
Work the line as part of the station rotation during peak services and regular shifts
Lead by example in speed, accuracy, ticket management, and quality control
Maintain consistent execution of menu items to Desmonds standards
Ensure stations are fully set, properly stocked, and ready for service
Prep & Kitchen Operations
Oversee and execute daily prep lists to support smooth service flow
Maintain pars and communicate needs for ordering and replenishment
Ensure proper storage, labeling, and rotation (FIFO) across all products
Support the implementation and adherence to recipes, specs, and plating standards
Team Support & Development
Coach line cooks during service and provide guidance to improve performance
Help train new team members on stations, prep, safety, and standards
Promote strong communication between BOH team members during shifts
Contribute to building a reliable, accountable kitchen culture
Sanitation, Safety & Compliance
Uphold all food safety and sanitation practices consistently (clean-as-you-go, proper temps, cross-contamination prevention)
Maintain a clean, organized line and prep areas throughout each shift
Follow all health department and internal compliance standards