Executive Sous Chef

Hearth — Moorpark, CA Hearth is a small, wood-fired restaurant built around simple food, high standards, and genuine hospitality. We are a 26-seat neighborhood space where the kitchen is in the dining room and every detail matters. We're looking for a Chef de Cuisine / Kitchen Operations Lead to help us take the next step, someone who can bring structure, consistency, and discipline to our kitchen while protecting what makes Hearth special. This is for someone who takes pride in executing a clear vision at a high level, every single day.

THE ROLE

You will be responsible for the day-to-day execution and operational health of the kitchen , including food cost, labor, prep systems, and team accountability. You will work directly with Sebastian (owner/chef) to execute the vision of Hearth with consistency and precision.

WHAT YOU'LL OWN

Kitchen Operations Oversee daily kitchen service and flow Ensure consistency in all dishes leaving the kitchen Maintain cleanliness, organization, and standards at all times Food Cost & Inventory Track and manage food cost weekly Own ordering, inventory, and pars Reduce waste and tighten portion control Prep & Systems Build and maintain prep systems that set the team up for success Create structure and clarity in daily and weekly kitchen operations Continuously improve efficiency without sacrificing quality Labor & Team Management Support scheduling with a focus on productivity and efficiency Help lead, coach, and develop the kitchen team Uphold accountability while maintaining a respectful, team-first environment

WHAT YOU WON'T OWN

To be clear, this role is about execution, not creative direction . Menu development and changes are led by Sebastian Ingredient quality and sourcing standards are non-negotiable Guest experience and hospitality standards are set at the ownership level You are here to bring the vision to life consistently and at a high level .

WHO YOU ARE

Highly organized and systems-driven Calm under pressure and consistent in leadership Detail-oriented to a fault, you care about the small things Financially aware, you understand how kitchens actually make money A strong communicator who can coach without ego Someone who values standards, simplicity, and doing things the right way You take pride in: Clean kitchens Tight systems Consistent execution A team that knows what's expected and delivers

WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE

Food cost is controlled and predictable Labor is efficient and intentional The kitchen runs smoothly without constant oversight Every guest gets the same high-quality experience The team is clear, accountable, and improving

WHY HEARTH

Small, focused team where your impact is real A kitchen built on quality ingredients and intentional cooking A clear vision and high standards Opportunity to grow with a restaurant that is actively building something long-term DETAILS Full-time position Competitive salary based on experience Performance-based incentives tied to food cost and labor targets If you're someone who thrives in structure, takes pride in execution, and wants to be part of building something meaningful, we'd love to hear from you.