Culinary Manager

Culinary Manager

Wilmington, DE Full-Time | $75,000–$85,000 base + quarterly bonus

Exciting Culinary Leadership Opportunity

We are seeking a hands-on Culinary Manager for a high-volume restaurant in Wilmington, DE. This role is ideal for a strong kitchen leader who thrives in fast-paced operations, knows how to build and develop teams, and takes pride in delivering excellent food quality and execution. Offering $75,000–$85,000 base plus quarterly bonus, strong benefits, and growth opportunity, this is an exciting chance to join a dynamic hospitality-driven environment.

This role offers the chance to be part of a vibrant, hospitality-driven concept known for its lively atmosphere, scratch-made food, strong culture, and commitment to delivering an exceptional guest experience.

The Role

The Culinary Manager will oversee all back-of-house operations while also acting as a key member of the overall management team by supporting front-of-house leadership during scheduled management shifts.

This is a highly visible leadership role for someone who can balance kitchen execution, team development, cost controls, and daily operations while helping create a seamless experience for both guests and staff.

What You'll Be Responsible For

Back of House Leadership

Oversee daily kitchen operations and ensure smooth execution during every shift

Build and manage kitchen schedules based on business needs

Handle ordering, receiving, inventory, and product controls

Manage food cost, labor cost, and kitchen budgets

Maintain equipment and ensure the kitchen is operating efficiently

Uphold recipe consistency, presentation standards, and food quality

Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, and operational procedures

Recruit, train, coach, and develop back-of-house team members

Create a culture of accountability, urgency, professionalism, and teamwork

Front of House Support

Step into front-of-house management shifts as part of the leadership team

Help direct service flow during busy periods

Support service standards and guest satisfaction

Maintain strong communication between front and back of house

Partner with the leadership team to ensure smooth overall operations

What Were Looking For

Previous experience in a Culinary Manager, Kitchen Manager, Executive Sous Chef, or similar leadership role

Strong background in high-volume restaurant operations

Experience with scheduling, ordering, inventory, labor management, and food cost controls

Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop teams in a fast-paced environment

Strong communication and organizational skills

Solid knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards

Professional, dependable, and results-driven mindset

Open availability, including nights, weekends, and holidays

The Ideal Candidate

Leads from the front and stays actively involved in the day-to-day operation

Brings strong kitchen leadership with a team-first mentality

Knows how to hold standards while keeping morale high

Is comfortable working across both BOH and FOH leadership responsibilities

Takes ownership, solves problems quickly, and thrives in a fast-moving environment

Wants to grow with a strong restaurant team and make an immediate impact

Why This Role Stands Out

This is more than just a kitchen leadership job — it is an opportunity to join a busy, team-oriented restaurant where strong leaders are valued, growth is encouraged, and great hospitality starts with great people.