Gus's BBQ has been a staple for authentic Southern hospitality, genuine pit-master craft, and high-volume excellence. As part of the Bicos Hospitality family, we take pride in delivering unforgettable dining experiences rooted in tradition while constantly pushing ourselves to elevate our craft. We are expanding and seeking a driven, dynamic culinary leader to step into the role of Executive Chef for our upcoming location in Mission Viejo, CA .

Please note:

The ideal candidate must be willing to commute to our flagship location in South Pasadena, CA for comprehensive hands-on training until the Mission Viejo location is ready for opening. If you thrive in a high-energy environment and want to play a key role in launching a new restaurant, we want to build something great with you.

Key Responsibilities Team Leadership & Culture:

Recruit, hire, train, and mentor the opening back-of-house team, fostering an inclusive and supportive kitchen culture.

Operational Excellence:

Direct day-to-day kitchen operations, ensuring peak efficiency, strict food safety compliance, and flawless adherence to our recipe standards.

New Opening Execution:

Champion kitchen readiness, equipment setup, and workflow optimization leading up to and through the Mission Viejo grand opening.

Continuous Improvement:

Bring a natural curiosity to kitchen operations to constantly refine execution and improve the guest experience.

Financial Management:

Drive food cost controls, labor optimization, inventory management, and waste reduction to achieve store financial targets.

What We're Looking For Experience:

Minimum of 3 years of Executive Chef or High-Volume Kitchen Manager experience in a full-service, high-volume concept (new restaurant opening experience is a plus).

Location & Training Flexibility:

Ability and willingness to commute to South Pasadena for training prior to transitioning permanently to Mission Viejo .

BBQ Knowledge:

Professional BBQ experience is desired, but not required.

Kindness & Integrity:

A collaborative leader who sets high standards, treats the team with empathy and respect, and operates with complete honesty.

Curiosity & Grit:

The continuous desire to learn and innovate, paired with the resilience, drive, and adaptability needed to lead a demanding, high-volume kitchen launch. Bicos Hospitality is an established restaurant group based in Pasadena, California, renowned for its diverse culinary concepts that range from fast-casual to craft bar and barbecue. Each establishment is thoughtfully designed to deliver unique, neighborhood-inspired experiences rooted in genuine hospitality.

Pay:

$98,000.00 - $108,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off

Work Location:

In person