Job Overview

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head Chef/Kitchen Manager to lead our culinary team and oversee all aspects of kitchen operations. This pivotal role combines creative culinary leadership with efficient restaurant management, ensuring exceptional food quality, safety standards, and a vibrant dining experience. The ideal candidate will inspire a team, manage food preparation processes, and uphold the highest standards of food handling and safety protocols.

Join us to craft memorable dining moments while driving operational excellence in a fast-paced, hospitality-focused environment.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Leadership

- Lead, train, and supervise all kitchen staff.
- Organize daily kitchen operations and assign tasks effectively.
- Create and maintain a positive, professional, and respectful kitchen environment.
- Ensure the kitchen operates efficiently during busy service periods.
- Assist with hiring, training, scheduling, and performance management of kitchen staff.

Food Preparation & Quality

- Oversee the preparation, cooking, and presentation of all menu items.
- Ensure food is consistently prepared according to Café de Madrid's recipes and standards.
- Maintain high standards of taste, freshness, presentation, and portion control.
- Develop and introduce new dishes and seasonal menu items when appropriate.
- Ensure all dishes are served in a timely manner during service.

Menu & Recipe Management

- Maintain and update recipes, preparation procedures, and kitchen standards.
- Assist management with menu development and pricing.
- Ensure kitchen staff understand recipes, portion sizes, and plating requirements.




- Help maintain the restaurant's Spanish-inspired culinary identity.

Inventory & Cost Control

- Monitor food inventory and ensure appropriate stock levels.
- Place and receive food and kitchen supply orders.
- Inspect deliveries for quality, freshness, and accuracy.
- Minimize food waste and maintain proper portion control.
- Monitor food costs and work with management to maintain profitability.

Food Safety & Sanitation

- Ensure the kitchen complies with all applicable food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.
- Maintain proper food storage, labeling, temperature control, and rotation.
- Ensure cleaning and sanitation procedures are consistently followed.
- Maintain a clean, organized, and protected kitchen at all times.
- Ensure staff follow proper food-handling procedures.

Qualifications
- Previous experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or senior kitchen leadership position.
- Robust knowledge of professional kitchen operations.
- Experience managing and training kitchen staff.
- Excellent communication and leadership skills.
- Strong organizational and time-management abilities.
- Ability to work efficiently under pressure in a quick-paced restaurant environment.
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to food quality.




- Spanish or Mediterranean cuisine experience is considered an asset.
- Food Handler Certification is considered an asset.

Skills & Attributes
- Strong leadership and team-management skills.
- Passion for cooking and hospitality.
- Reliable, punctual, and professional.
- Creative and knowledgeable about food.
- Able to remain calm and organized during high-volume service.
- Strong problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication with both kitchen and front-of-house teams.
- Commitment to maintaining Café de Madrid's standards and reputation.

Working Conditions
- Fast-paced restaurant environment.
- Extended periods of standing and physical activity.
- Ability to lift and move kitchen supplies when required.
- Flexible availability, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Must be able to work effectively during high-volume service periods.

What We Offer
- Leadership position within a growing restaurant.
- Opportunity to contribute to menu development and culinary direction.
- Supportive and professional working environment.
- Opportunity for growth within Café de Madrid.
- Competitive compensation based on experience.
- Yearly loyalty/performance-based bonus.

Join our passionate team where your culinary talent will shine! We value energetic leaders who thrive on creating exceptional dining experiences while managing efficient kitchen operations. This paid position offers an exciting opportunity to influence our culinary direction and lead a dedicated team toward excellence in hospitality. Pay: $65,000.00-$75,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person

📌 Head Chef/Kitchen Manager (Oakville)
🏢 Café de Madrid
📍 Oakville