Executive Chef Job Description

Upscale Club – Oakland, CA

Salary: $90K - $130K++

Upscale Club is reimagining its food and beverage offerings to create innovative products, enhance service, and drive growth. With a focus on becoming a destination for casual dining, we aim to elevate the culinary experience for both members and the surrounding Oakland community.

We are seeking a dynamic and creative Executive Chef to lead our kitchen, develop exceptional menus, and deliver high-quality dining experiences. This role offers the opportunity to shape the food and beverage program, manage a talented team, and contribute to the success of a premier venue.

Key Responsibilities

Menu Development

• Design innovative, diverse menus with California, Asian, and Hispanic influences.
• Incorporate fresh, locally sourced ingredients and seasonal offerings.
• Create limited menus for peak hours and cater to dietary trends (e.g., plant-based, gluten-free).

Kitchen Operations

• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring food quality, presentation, and consistency.
• Manage inventory and source ingredients within budget.
• Maintain cleanliness and compliance with health and safety standards.

Team Leadership

• Train, mentor, and lead a small, efficient kitchen team.
• Foster a culture of creativity, teamwork, and professionalism.
• Collaborate with front-of-house staff for seamless service.

Cost Management

• Work within a $150K kitchen upgrade budget.
• Monitor food and labor costs, adjust menus and staff as needed.

Customer Experience

• Deliver exceptional dining experiences for members and guests.
• Gather feedback to continuously improve service and offerings.
• Ensure smooth operations during peak hours and special events.

Event & Banquet Management

• Plan and execute private events, banquets, and catering in collaboration with the Food and Beverage Manager.
• Develop tailored menus to meet client expectations.

Qualifications

• Experience as an Executive Chef or similar role, ideally in high-volume or boutique venues.
• Creativity in delivering high-quality dishes within a limited kitchen space.
• Strong knowledge of food trends and seasonal/local cuisines.
• Leadership and financial management skills.
• Culinary school degree preferred, but not required.

Skills & Attributes

• Multitasking, organization, and time management.
• Creativity and attention to detail.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.

If interested, please send your resume to jay@geckohospitality.com