Head Chef

The RoleAs Head Chef, you'll own the kitchen: the menu, the numbers, and the people. You'll work closely with ownership and front-of-house leadership to keep quality high, costs in line, and the team strong through our busiest seasons.What You'll DoManage food and labor costs, including ordering, inventory, waste tracking, scheduling, and regular cost analysisBuild and refine menus that balance creativity, guest appeal, and profitability, including recipe costing, pricing, and menu engineeringLead, train, and develop the kitchen team, from hiring and onboarding to coaching and performance reviewsBuild a positive, accountable kitchen culture that keeps good people aroundMaintain consistent food quality, presentation, and ticket timesUphold all food safety, sanitation, and health code standardsPlan and staff for high-volume periods tied to the University of Missouri calendarWhat We're Looking ForProven track record managing and analyzing food and labor costs, with results you can speak toDemonstrated experience structuring menus and developing recipesStrong team management and team-building skills, with experience leading a kitchen staff3+ years of kitchen leadership experience (Head Chef, Executive Sous Chef, or Kitchen Manager)Comfort with inventory systems, scheduling tools, and P&L reportsServSafe Manager certification (or ability to obtain within 30 days)Calm, organized leadership under pressureSchedule RequirementsColumbia runs on the Mizzou calendar, and so do we. This role requires availability on key days and dates aligned with the university schedule, including home football game days, Homecoming, Family Weekend, move-in, and commencement weekends. Other key dates will be shared in advance.What We OfferCompetitive compensation packageBonus opportunitiesHealthcare*Company cell phoneA chance to lead the kitchen at an established restaurant with a loyal followingHow to ApplySend your resume and a brief note about your cost management and menu experience to todd@room-38.com. Examples of menus you've built or cost results you've delivered are welcome.Room 38 Restaurant & Lounge is an equal opportunity employer.About UsRoom 38 Restaurant & Lounge has been part of Columbia's dining scene for 18 years, serving locals, families, and the Mizzou community. We're looking for an experienced Head Chef to lead our kitchen, sharpen our operations, and build a team that takes pride in every plate.