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.