Culinary Field Chef
6 days ago
Valencia
Job DescriptionJob Title: Culinary Field ChefClassification: ExemptReports to: Director of Culinary Job Summary: The Culinary Field Chef supports day-to-day field culinary operations across all foodservice programs, ensuring consistent execution of Vallarta standards. This role provides hands-on operational support, coaching, and culinary expertise to Kitchen Managers and foodservice teams, while driving sales growth, product consistency, and an exceptional guest experience across all locations. This position serves as a key field resource, supporting menu execution, recipe adherence, training, and operational improvements. The Culinary Field Chef collaborates closely with the Corporate Chef and cross-functional teams to support menu development, product rollouts, and company-wide culinary initiatives. The role plays a critical part in new store openings, training execution, and ongoing operational support, with approximately 80% of time spent in field locations. Key Responsibilities: • Provide culinary and operational support across all foodservice concepts (Taqueria, Tortilleria, Restaurants, etc.)., • Coach and support Kitchen Managers on execution, standards, and guest service., • Ensure consistency in recipes, portioning, presentation, and flavor profiles., • Lead training and field execution of new menu items and programs., • Support product development and assist with implementation in the field., • Identify operational improvements to improve cost, efficiency, and quality., • Reinforce company standards, culture, and guest experience expectations., • Monitor performance and support business initiatives aligned with company goals. Operational Responsibilities: • Ensure compliance with health, safety, and sanitation standards., • Support food cost control, inventory, and operational reporting., • Maintain kitchen cleanliness, organization, and efficiency., • Assist with new store openings, remodels, and training execution., • Ensure consistency of recipes, procedures, and training materials., • Assist with staffing, onboarding, and team development as needed. Food Quality & Compliance: • Enforce recipe adherence, portion control, and food quality standards., • Maintain HACCP compliance and food safety procedures., • Monitor temperature control, storage, and handling practices., • Conduct quality checks for taste, appearance, and consistency. Customer Service & Experience: • Deliver and model Vallarta's Nuestra CASA service standards., • Support strong guest satisfaction and service execution., • Address customer feedback professionally and promptly. Team Leadership & Development: • Provide coaching, training, and development to culinary teams., • Promote accountability, teamwork, and performance standards., • Partner with leadership on performance and operational needs. Collaboration & Communication: • Support operations across Taqueria, Prepared Foods, Juice Bar, Grab & Go, and Catering as assigned., • Maintain clear communication with leadership regarding production needs, shortages, or operational challenges., • Ensure timely escalation of issues that may impact food safety, quality, or service. Safety: • Enforce all safety procedures and proper equipment use., • Report incidents and maintain safe working conditions., • Ensure adherence to company policies and standards. Other Duties: • Support all current and future culinary programs., • Perform other duties as assigned. Required Education and Experience: • Minimum 5+ years in culinary, restaurant, or multi-unit operations leadership., • Strong experience in foodservice operations and team development., • Experience in recipe development or multi-unit support preferred., • Strong knowledge of food cost, labor, and inventory controls., • Ability to train and lead in a fast-paced environment., • High School Diploma required; Culinary Degree preferred., • Equivalent experience may be considered. Working Conditions: • Fast-paced kitchen and retail environment., • Frequent standing, walking, and lifting (up to 50 lbs.)., • Exposure to hot/cold environments and kitchen equipment., • Moderate to loud noise levels. Position Type/Expected Hours of WorkThis is an exempt position. Work schedules may vary based on business needs, requiring flexibility in hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays. Approximately 80% of travel is required within the company's operating regions, including overnight stays. Mileage reimbursement is provided for approved business travel. This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive, and employees may perform other duties as directed. All employees are expected to perform any reasonable task or request that is consistent with fulfilling company goals and objectives.