Chef

Chef — Hospitality-Focused Team Member

ItaLees Restaurant and Tap Location: Fairview Park, Ohio
Position Type: Full Time

About Us

ItaLees is a new hospitality-driven neighborhood Italian-American restaurant built on one core principle: genuine hospitality comes first. We believe every guest interaction matters, and we are committed to creating a warm, welcoming environment supported by professionalism, accountability, and teamwork.

We believe no task is above or below anyone on our team — we lead with hospitality, accountability, and respect for the entire operation. Our goal is to build a stable, long-term team of individuals who take pride in service and want to grow within a supportive, high-standard environment.

Position Overview

We operate without traditional support positions such as prep team or dishwasher. You will be in a collaborative, non-gatekeeping environment where every chef is our right-hand person. You will learn everything about the way we operate and we will provide opportunities for educational advancement to further your career. You will become a part of something unique and special in the community.

This is an all-hands-on-deck company. Each team member plays an active role in maintaining the flow, cleanliness, and overall guest experience of the restaurant.

This position is semi-autonomous. You need to be able to operate at a high level without supervision. Please do not apply unless you have line lead or other supervisory experience.

The ideal candidate is proactive, detail-oriented, service-driven, and takes ownership of both guest relationships and their work environment.

Core Responsibilities

• Follow prep lists accurately and consistently.
• Cook to order with speed and precision. Follow recipes to the letter.
• Communicate clearly with FOH about timing and ticket flow - your feedback is important and valuable.
• Treat every plate like it’s going to your own family. No shortcuts.
• Be observant - do what needs to be done or if you cannot, call it out to a colleague. No job is beneath any of us.
• When working in the dish station clean, fast, and thorough. Take a moment to save a moment and be sure everything gets cleaned properly the first time.
• Take pride in leaving your station better than you found it.
• Trash, recycling, floors, and restrooms — it’s all part of EVERYONE'S job.

What We’re Looking For

• A true hospitality-first mindset with strong guest awareness
• AT LEAST 5 YEARS COOKING EXPERIENCE REQUIRED.
• Ability to multitask, stay organized, and maintain professionalism in a fast-paced environment
• Comfort working in a fully engaged, team-driven service model
• Strong accountability, reliability, and attention to detail
• Positive attitude and commitment to maintaining a respectful workplace culture
• Food Safety Certification required within 60 days of hire

Compensation, Benefits & Perks

• Starting wage of $20/hour
• $0.50 raise every 6 months for first 2 years for continued employment and performance
• Paid Time Off (PTO): Eligible after 1 year for 1 week (5 paid days)
• Shift Meal Benefit: Shift meal during scheduled shifts
• Birthday Bonus
• Semi-Annual Team Outings
• HealthiestYou Virtual Health Coverage available upon hire
• A professional, respectful, hospitality-focused work culture

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From $20.00 per hour

Benefits:

• Food provided

Work Location: In person

Salary : $20