Executive Chef at Union Restaurant

Join the team at Union, where passion for great food and genuine hospitality come together in a fast-paced, energetic environment! We’re looking for dedicated, team-oriented individuals who thrive in a dynamic setting and take pride in delivering exceptional guest experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned hospitality professional or eager to grow in the industry, we offer a supportive and inclusive workplace with opportunities for career advancement. If you love working with great people, enjoy a lively atmosphere, and want to be part of a restaurant that values quality, teamwork, and community, we’d love to hear from you!

Union is a chef-driven, seasonally focused Italian restaurant located in Old Pasadena. Known for our welcoming vibe, rustic yet refined food, and carefully curated wine program, Union has become a neighborhood favorite and a destination for guests celebrating everything from casual dinners to special occasions. With an intimate dining room and bustling energy, we’re dedicated to delivering the kind of hospitality that makes every guest feel like a VIP.

Our concept is simple yet elevated—a place for families, friends, first dates, and everything in between. We focus on creating joyful experiences with soulful food, great wine, and a vibrant atmosphere. If you’re someone who thrives in a high-energy environment and wants to be part of a dynamic, growing brand, Union is the perfect place for you.

Hospitality
Hospitality is who we are—it’s the kindness we extend to one another and the genuine reception we provide to every guest. It’s the excitement and enthusiasm we bring to our work, our space, each other, and our roles.

Community
We believe in creating a sense of belonging and connection for both our guests and our team. Union is built on relationships—fostering a welcoming environment where people come together to share food, stories, and memorable experiences.

Sustainability
We are committed to mindful practices that support our community and our environment. From sourcing ingredients responsibly to minimizing waste, sustainability guides the way we operate, ensuring that what we do today contributes to a better tomorrow.

What You’ll Do

• Consistently maintain a high level of cleanliness throughout the restaurant

• Oversee all administrative duties for the back of house

• Lead creative menu development in collaboration with the culinary team

• Manage ordering, receiving, processing, and menu costing to achieve agreed-upon food cost goals

• Ensure all products meet Union standards, sourcing from local purveyors and the Farmer’s Market whenever possible

• Anticipate and plan for seasonal changes in ingredients and menu direction

• Write and manage staff schedules to align with business needs and labor cost expectations

• Hire, train, and mentor back of house staff to foster growth and consistency

• Conduct fair and effective performance reviews for back of house staff and Sous Chefs

• Promptly communicate and address maintenance issues

• Conduct daily product checks and confirm mise en place standards are met

• Taste and evaluate all batched items for quality throughout the day

• Teach and train staff on new dishes, stations, and products

• Uphold professional standards for uniforms, tools, and workspace organization

  Who You Are

  • A culinary leader with proven back of house management experience

  • Strong organizational and administrative skills

  • Able to mentor and inspire a team with professionalism and respect

  • ServSafe Manager certification required (current)

  Physical Demands

  This role requires standing, walking, and using hands frequently. Must be able to lift/move up to 75 lbs and work in a fast-paced kitchen environment.

  Why Join Union?

  By joining Union, you’ll be part of a passionate, supportive team dedicated to innovation, hospitality, and excellence. This role is not just about managing the kitchen—it’s about shaping experiences and contributing to a brand rooted in warmth, inclusiveness, and the joy of sharing great food and wine.

  If you’re excited about leading in a high-volume, hospitality-focused environment, we’d love to meet you!

  Compensation Details

  • Salary: $80,000 – $90,000

  • Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Paid Time Off,  Dining Discounts 

  Required Skills

  • Ability to Thrive in a Fast-Paced Environment

  • Strong Communication Skills

  • Attention to Detail

  • Leadership Skills

  • Problem-Solving Skills

  • Adaptability

  • Organizational Skills

  • Customer Service Orientation

  • Team Collaboration

  • Time Management

  • Creativity in Menu Development

  • Ability to Mentor and Develop Staff

  • Physical Stamina and Strength