Culinary Director - Soul & Smoke - Evanston : Job Details

Soul & Smoke is seeking a Culinary Director to lead kitchen operations, foster team development, and ensure food quality/safety across multiple locations. This role partners with the Chef, office team, and kitchen staff to maintain high standards while driving efficiency and coordination in a supportive, team-oriented atmosphere.

We're looking for a passionate and organized leader with strong culinary expertise, excellent communication skills, and a talent for mentoring teams. The Culinary Director will oversee daily kitchen operations, support training efforts, use software to track food costs, and contribute to menu development. They will also assist with offsite events, industry activations, and staff scheduling.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee kitchen operations across Soul & Smoke locations, maintaining clear communications and making regular visits to ensure alignment and consistency.
• Train and mentor kitchen staff, maintaining high standards in food quality and execution.
• Through software and ordering, help manage food costs, pricing, and inventory to optimize efficiency.
• Help lead live demonstrations, new dish rollouts, and research & development for menu innovation.
• Step in on the line to fill staffing gaps, provide on-site training, or assist during service/production as needed.
• Help plan and execute offsite events, representing Soul & Smoke at media and industry activations.
• Coordinate schedules and calendars to ensure smooth operations.

Qualifications

• Fine dining management experience with a strong culinary background.
• Proficiency in food cost tracking, menu pricing, and inventory management.
• Strong organizational and computer skills.
• Effective communication and leadership. Professional and approachable with a passion for training and mentoring.
• Flexible and dependable, with the ability to adapt to business needs.
• Comfortable representing Soul & Smoke at public, client, and industry events.
• Valid food manager and allergen certificates.
• Ability to walk/stand for extended periods and lift up to 50 pounds.
• Reliable and timely, able to work autonomously and as part of a team.
• Drivers' license strongly preferred.

Compensation & Benefits

• Job type: full-time, averaging 45-55 hours per week. Some evenings, weekends, and holidays will be required, depending on business needs and events.
• Base salary: $55,000 - $60,000 per year.
• Revenue share: significant additional earnings from pooled service charge
• Benefits: Paid personal time off. Health/dental insurance, Aflac, and retirement savings plan available.