Executive Chef

ZBest BBQ•Pittsburgh, PA

6h•Onsite

About The Position

ZBest Barbeque Chicken & Ribs is seeking an experienced, passionate, and highly organized Executive Chef to lead kitchen operations and support the continued growth of one of Pittsburgh’s respected community-based food establishments. The Executive Chef will oversee all back-of-house operations including food preparation, kitchen management, staff supervision, inventory control, quality assurance, scheduling, customer satisfaction, and fiscal accountability. This individual must be able to thrive in a fast-paced environment while maintaining the high-quality food and customer experience ZBest is known for. This position is currently part-time with strong opportunity for advancement into a full-time executive leadership role as business operations expand. ZBest Barbeque Chicken & Ribs is a family-operated restaurant with deep roots in the Pittsburgh community and a strong, loyal customer base that has supported the business for years. Known for its flavorful barbeque, welcoming atmosphere, and commitment to serving the community, ZBest has built a reputation as a trusted neighborhood destination for great food and authentic hospitality. The restaurant takes pride in creating a family-oriented environment for both customers and staff while continuing to grow its brand through quality service, catering opportunities, and community engagement initiatives.

Requirements

Minimum of 4 years of kitchen management or Executive Chef experience.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Experience managing inventory, purchasing, and food costs.
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
Knowledge of restaurant operations and fiscal responsibilities.
Excellent communication and organizational skills.
Understanding of food safety and sanitation regulations.
Ability to multitask in a fast-paced environment.

Nice To Haves

Experience in BBQ, Soul Food, Catering, or High-Volume Restaurant Operations
ServSafe Certification or equivalent food safety certification.
Experience with scheduling systems and restaurant POS systems.
Catering and event production experience.
Passion for community-centered business operations.

Responsibilities

Lead all food preparation and kitchen production activities.
Ensure consistency, quality, taste, and presentation of all menu items.
Maintain high standards for food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness.
Monitor portion control and minimize food waste.
Assist with menu planning, specials, and recipe standardization.
Ensure kitchen operations meet local health department regulations.
Train, schedule, and motivate kitchen staff.
Create a positive, team-oriented work environment.
Support employee performance and productivity.
Assist with hiring, onboarding, and disciplinary actions when necessary.
Ensure staff adhere to company policies and kitchen procedures.
Manage food inventory levels and kitchen supplies.
Conduct regular inventory counts and maintain accurate records.
Coordinate purchasing and vendor relationships.
Monitor food costs and control kitchen expenses.
Ensure timely ordering to meet operational demands.
Support the growth and profitability of ZBest Barbeque Chicken & Ribs through strategic sales and promotional efforts.
Assist with identifying and promoting catering opportunities for corporate events, family gatherings, community events, and special occasions.
Help develop and promote catering packages, family meal packages, and seasonal menu offerings.
Encourage upsell opportunities including side dishes, desserts, beverages, sauces, and specialty items.
Collaborate with ownership on special promotions and revenue-generating initiatives.
Assist with creating high-margin menu items and customer incentive offerings.
Support customer retention efforts by helping maintain high-quality food and service standards.
Contribute ideas that increase repeat business, customer engagement, and brand visibility.
Participate in community events and promotional activities when needed to help expand the ZBest brand.
Help position the restaurant for long-term growth and expanded business opportunities throughout the Pittsburgh region.
Understand and manage restaurant cost controls.
Monitor labor costs, food costs, and operational efficiency.
Assist ownership with budgeting and profitability goals.
Meet production deadlines and service timelines.
Support operational planning for catering and special events.
Maintain high customer satisfaction standards.
Address customer concerns professionally and promptly.
Support the restaurant’s reputation for quality and community engagement.
Assist in maintaining a welcoming and professional environment.