Job Description Schulzes Schnitzel Kitchen is looking for an experienced, hands-on Head Chef to join our kitchen team. Located inside Schulz Bräu Brewing Company in Knoxville, Schulzes Schnitzel Kitchen specializes in authentic German food that serves the taproom, Biergarten, and our large annual events, including Knoxville Oktoberfest. This is a working chef position. Our Head Chef will spend a significant amount of time in the kitchen alongside the rest of the team, including prep, cooking, expo, and other day-to-day kitchen duties. At the same time, the Head Chef will take ownership of the culinary side of the operation and work closely with our existing Kitchen Manager. Compensation is $22-$27/hour base pay, depending on experience and qualifications, plus participation in the kitchen tip pool and overtime. With tips and overtime, expected total annual compensation is approximately $70,000-$85,000. Responsibilities Work hands-on in daily kitchen operations, including prep, cooking, and expo Maintain consistent food quality, taste, presentation, and portioning Oversee recipes, preparation methods, and culinary standards Provide hands-on instruction on recipes, preparation techniques, food quality standards, and food safety procedures. Help develop new menu items, seasonal dishes, and specials Conduct and maintain accurate food inventory Monitor food cost, portion control, yields, and waste Ensure proper food storage, labeling, rotation, and temperature control Maintain high standards for kitchen cleanliness and organization Work with the Kitchen Manager to ensure compliance with all health department regulations, food safety requirements, and sanitation standards Identify and immediately address food safety, sanitation, or quality concerns Help establish efficient prep and production procedures Work closely with the Kitchen Manager on product needs and inventory levels Assist with the transition into our soon to be newly renovated kitchen and help establish efficient systems within the new space Maintain quality and consistency during high-volume service, including Oktoberfest and other major events Our Kitchen Manager will continue to handle much of the administrative side of the kitchen, including scheduling, ordering, receiving, and vendor coordination. The Head Chef and Kitchen Manager will work closely together and both remain active participants in daily kitchen operations. Qualifications Culinary degree, diploma, or certificate from an accredited culinary program required Professional kitchen experience required Previous experience as a Head Chef, Sous Chef, Kitchen Lead, or similar culinary leadership position preferred Strong understanding of professional cooking techniques, food preparation, food safety, and sanitation Experience in a high-volume restaurant or kitchen environment preferred Strong organizational and communication skills Ability to train and work effectively with kitchen employees Ability to remain organized and maintain quality during high-volume service German or Bavarian culinary experience is a plus, but not required ServSafe certification preferred Must be available to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and major events as needed Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds Compensation & Benefits $22-$27 per hour + tips, based on education, experience, and qualifications Overtime pay when applicable Tips vary based on business volume and can add significantly to total earnings, particularly during Oktoberfest and other major events Employee discounts Paid time off Health insurance We are looking for someone who enjoys being in the kitchen and wants to take ownership of the food they serve. This is an opportunity to join an established German restaurant, and be part of the next stage of growth for Schulzes Schnitzel Kitchen. To be considered for this position, please submit both a current resume and a brief cover letter with your application. We are hiring immediately and are looking for the right candidate to join and become established with our team before Oktoberfest begins in September.

Pay:

$70,000.00 - $85,000.00 per year

Benefits:

401(k) matching Dental insurance Health insurance Paid time off Retirement plan Vision insurance

Work Location:

In person