Executive Kitchen Manager

Cooper's Hawk Winery•Orland Park, IL

54d•$84,000 - $100,000

About The Position

As an Executive Kitchen Manager at Cooper's Hawk, you'll lead a fast-paced, high-volume scratch kitchen, driving the culinary execution of our uniquely inspired menu, thoughtfully paired with our wines. You'll be the culinary leader and coach, partnering with your team to ensure excellence in food quality, consistency, safety, and service. With a focus on uncompromising hospitality, you'll help shape a kitchen culture that delivers memorable guest and Team Member experiences.

Requirements

2-3 years of kitchen management experience in a full-service restaurant. 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

Responsibilities

Oversee overall kitchen operations and lead the culinary team
Partner with the Culinary team to embrace and execute new menu items
Use tools like POS systems, scheduling software, inventory/ordering systems, and Microsoft Office to stay organized
Maintain a safe and healthy work environment and uphold food safety standards
Lead menu rollouts, kitchen initiatives, and private events, including monthly Wine Club dinners
Oversee final interviews and approve kitchen Team Member hiring decisions
Introduce and supervise the implementation of kitchen training materials
Review and approve schedules aligned with labor forecasting
Demonstrate deep knowledge of food quality, recipes, and kitchen systems
Maximize financial and operational results through effective planning and execution
Ensure strong collaboration between kitchen and front-of-house operations
Lead Community meetings and foster open communication across the team
Work closely with management teams to conduct weekly food inventory
Partner with the General Manager and other leaders to achieve restaurant goals
Ensure adherence to policies; manage and train others on standard operating systems/ procedures
Represent Cooper's Hawk values and by creating a respectful, positive, and professional kitchen culture
Develop and retain Managers and Team Members through coaching/mentorship
Ensure every dish reflects our commitment to quality and uncompromising hospitality
Inspire the team to take pride in their work and deliver exceptional food
Celebrate team achievements and milestones
Lead with passion and foster a kitchen environment that values excellence

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