Cafe Head Chef - Washington, DC

Job Description

As a Chef at Tatte, you will oversee all kitchen operations at your café and are ultimately responsible for the success and growth of your kitchen team. Up to 25 employees—including cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashers—may be supervised. The ability to engage, inspire, and lead a strong team is a must. A passion for amazing food made from scratch and genuine hospitality is required.

• Run production and service according to established guidelines.
• Follow standardized recipes, portioning, and presentation standards. Complete daily production worksheets and waste log sheets. Taste finished meals to ensure quality.
• Train kitchen staff in food preparation, safe handling, operation of equipment, food safety, and sanitation based on company and regulatory standards.
• Establish and maintain cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment, storage, and work areas, ensuring staff follows schedules.
• Maintain inventory within established guidelines while ensuring necessary products are available when needed.
• Follow company safety and sanitation policies and procedures, including occurrence reporting.
• Participate in departmental meetings, staff development, and professional programs as appropriate.
• Implement seasonal menu changes.

• Work a flexible schedule based on sales trends and business needs, including days, nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Perform ten‑hour-plus shifts, standing, sitting, squatting, or walking for extended periods.
• Grasp, reach overhead, push, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds.

• Minimum 3‑5 years of progressive culinary and kitchen‑management experience, depending on formal degree or training.
• Proven passion for culinary excellence and exceeding guest expectations.
• Knowledge and proficiency of systems, methods, and processes that contribute to great execution.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
• High school education or equivalent.

• Hospitality education—BS/AS degree in Culinary Arts, Food Services Technology/Management, or related field.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook).
• Experience with Ulti Pro Onboarding & Recruiting, Toast POS System, Crunch Time, and Teamworks.
• Serv Safe Certification, Allergens Certification, and Choke Saver Certification.

• Competitive pay (typically $71k‑$91k, depending on experience).
• 401(k) with vesting match.
• Parking benefit when in position.
• Free Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Flexible schedule with no late nights.
• Health, dental, and vision insurance.
• Hands‑on training and classroom training.
• Free meals and drinks.
• Exciting potential for growth.

Tatte is an equal opportunity employer and an E‑Verify employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment.