Join ōkta, a prestigious high-end restaurant team nestled in Oregon’s picturesque wine country. As a culinary beacon in the heart of the Willamette Valley, we are renowned for our unwavering commitment to culinary excellence, utilizing premium ingredients sourced from our own farm, and delivering unparalleled service.

We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Chef De Cuisine to collaborate with our renowned executive chef and execute our culinary vision. As a key member of our team, you will work closely with the executive chef on research and development initiatives, community engagement projects, and spearhead the training, mentorship, and professional leadership of our exceptional kitchen staff.

Key Details:

• Pay:$75,000-$90,000 per year depending on experience.
• Location: 618 NE 3rd St, McMinnville, OR 97128.
• Schedule: This position is full-time, Wednesday – Sunday.
• Benefits: okta offers Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance, PTO, Employee Discounts, Employee Meals, EAP, Wellness Program, Retirement Benefits, and Continuing Education Opportunities.

About ōkta: ōkta offers a highly progressive tasting menu inspired by the Willamette Valley's micro-seasons, crafted with ingredients from our nearby farm and fermentation lab. Led by Michelin-starred Chef Matthew Lightner, our dining experience tells a story of terroir and innovation. Complemented by the intimate Cellar lounge with curated wine and spirits, and the exclusive Tributary Hotel above, ōkta provides an immersive and evolving culinary adventure in downtown McMinnville. We are proud to be 2024 Restaurant and Chef Awards semifinalists for the James Beard Awards, with Chef Matthew Lightner nominated for Best Chef: Northwest and Pacific.

To learn more, check out our website: https://www.oktaoregon.com/

Responsibilities:

• Collaborate with the executive chef to innovate and execute culinary concepts.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring exceptional food quality and service standards.
• Lead and inspire a team of dedicated kitchen professionals, fostering a culture of creativity, collaboration, and excellence.
• Maintain inventory levels, manage food costs, and uphold stringent sanitation and safety protocols.
• Act as a brand ambassador, representing ōkta’s commitment to culinary innovation and excellence in the local community and beyond.

Qualifications:

• 5 years of proven experience as a Chef de Cuisine, Head Chef, Kitchen Manager, Executive Chef, or similar leadership role in an upscale restaurant environment.
• Demonstrated passion for culinary innovation, with a track record of creating and executing exceptional dishes using premium, locally sourced ingredients.
• Strong leadership and communication skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse team.
• Impeccable attention to detail, focusing on maintaining high food quality, consistency, and presentation standards.
• Knowledge of food safety regulations and best practices.
• Culinary degree or equivalent work experience preferred.
• Ability to pass pre-employment reference checks and background check.

ōkta is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are dedicated to creating an inclusive atmosphere for all employees. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, disability, veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.