Job Description

Location: Wading River, NY
Type: Full-Time
Compensation: Commensurate with experience

Wading River Restaurant is seeking a hands-on Head Cook to lead day-to-day culinary execution in a gastro pub environment. This is a working role for a skilled line cook leader who thrives in service, sets the pace on the line, and holds high standards for prep, consistency, cleanliness, and food safety. The Head Cook will be part of the line rotation and is expected to actively cook during service—this is not a clipboard/office chef position.

Key Responsibilities

Line Leadership & Execution

• Work the line as part of the station rotation during peak services and regular shifts
• Lead by example in speed, accuracy, ticket management, and quality control
• Maintain consistent execution of menu items to Desmonds standards
• Ensure stations are fully set, properly stocked, and ready for service

Prep & Kitchen Operations

• Oversee and execute daily prep lists to support smooth service flow
• Maintain pars and communicate needs for ordering and replenishment
• Ensure proper storage, labeling, and rotation (FIFO) across all products
• Support the implementation and adherence to recipes, specs, and plating standards

Team Support & Development

• Coach line cooks during service and provide guidance to improve performance
• Help train new team members on stations, prep, safety, and standards
• Promote strong communication between BOH team members during shifts
• Contribute to building a reliable, accountable kitchen culture

Sanitation, Safety & Compliance

• Uphold all food safety and sanitation practices consistently (clean-as-you-go, proper temps, cross-contamination prevention)
• Maintain a clean, organized line and prep areas throughout each shift
• Follow all health department and internal compliance standards

Qualifications

• 3+ years of line cook experience in a gastro pub, chef-driven casual, or high-volume scratch kitchen
• Demonstrated ability to work multiple stations and support the line during busy service
• Strong knowledge of prep, timing, organization, and service execution
• Solid understanding of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen best practices
• Reliable, accountable, and calm under pressure
• Flexible availability, including nights/weekends as needed

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Gastro pub experience with consistent, high-quality execution
• A true working kitchen leader—hands-on, service-driven, and team-oriented
• Organized, fast, and detail-focused with strong station discipline
• Not a clipboard chef—must be able to jump on the line and cook

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, hot kitchen environment