Chef de Cuisine

Gamers Guild: Forks & Boards is a unique hybrid concept in Phoenix that combines a full-service restaurant with a tabletop gaming shop and community space. We serve high-quality food and drinks while hosting board games, card games, RPGs, and events. Our team creates an energetic, welcoming atmosphere for gamers, families, and food lovers alike.

Overview

We are seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Chef de Cuisine to lead our culinary team with creativity and discipline. In this critical role, you will be responsible for the heart of the house, overseeing all back-of-house operations to ensure every dish meets our high standards of quality and presentation. Your leadership will be essential in balancing culinary excellence with operational efficiency, managing everything from precise food prep and inventory to staff development and safety compliance. If you are a passionate leader who excels in a high-pressure environment and is dedicated to the craft of professional cooking, we invite you to drive the success of our kitchen.

Responsibilities

Lead and mentor the culinary team to maintain consistent food quality, flavor profiles, and plating standards.
Oversee all food preparation and production, ensuring efficient workflows and timely execution during peak service hours.
Manage a strictly allergen-sensitive kitchen environment by enforcing cross-contamination prevention protocols and supervising the precise preparation of allergen-free meals.
Manage inventory levels through strategic ordering and vendor management to ensure freshness while minimizing waste.
Implement and enforce strict food safety, sanitation, and health department protocols to maintain a pristine kitchen environment.
Control food costs and labor expenses by analyzing production sheets, managing portion control, and optimizing staff schedules.
Coordinate with the General Manager to develop seasonal menus and introduce new culinary offerings.
Supervise the maintenance and cleaning of all kitchen equipment to ensure operational longevity and safety.
Conduct comprehensive training for line cooks and prep staff on cooking techniques, recipe adherence, and safety standards.
Manage the hiring and onboarding process for BOH staff, fostering a culture of professional growth and accountability.
Collaborate closely with front-of-house management to ensure seamless communication between the kitchen and the dining room.

Qualifications

Proven experience as a Chef de Cuisine, Kitchen Manager, Sous Chef, or Lead Line Cook in a professional restaurant environment.
Deep expertise in professional cooking techniques, knife skills, and a strong understanding of diverse flavor profiles.
Expertise in managing allergen-sensitive food production, including deep knowledge of cross-contact prevention and the ability to train staff on strict dietary safety standards.
Demonstrated experience in BOH management, including staff scheduling, labor cost control, and inventory management.
Comprehensive knowledge of local health codes and food safety regulations; food safety certification is a must.
Strong leadership abilities with a track record of managing diverse teams and maintaining morale in high-stress settings.
Ability to analyze food cost percentages and manage budgets to ensure kitchen profitability.
Proficiency in using kitchen management software and POS systems for inventory tracking and order management.
Excellent organizational skills with the ability to multitask and prioritize deliverables in a fast-paced culinary setting.
Passion for culinary excellence and a commitment to maintaining a high standard of precision in every dish produced.

Join us as a Chef de Cuisine and lead our culinary team in delivering exceptional food, consistent execution, responsible allergen practices, and an outstanding guest experience.

Benefits

Health insurance; $140/month covered by the company.
PTO up to 20 days per year depending on tenure.
5 days of sick time per year.
Competitive pay based on experience.
Employee discounts on products (typically cost + 10%, with some exceptions).
Free Gamers Guild AZ Membership.
Payroll Advance eligibility after 120 days (up to 5% of annual pay; increases with tenure).
Gym membership reimbursement up to $15/month.

Other Details

Required Certifications/Licenses: Required Food Handler and Alcohol Service Certificates.
Position Type: Full Time, Salary, Exempt
Location: Phoenix, AZ
Pay: $60,000 - $80,000

Equal Opportunity Statement

Gamers Guild:Forks and Boards is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity and neurodiversity. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

To Apply

Please email your resume and cover letter to hr@gamersguildusa.com.