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Smoke on the Water

Executive Chef / Kitchen Manager

Smoke on the Water, Madison, Wisconsin, United States

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Why work for a franchise when you can work with family, slingin' Drinks, BBQ and Music ON OKAUCHEE LAKE?

Executive Chef – Smoke on the Water (Okauchee Lake, WI)

Are you ready to lead the culinary charge at one of Lake Country’s most vibrant lakeside destinations?

Smoke on the Water is seeking a passionate, creative, and experienced Executive Chef to helm our kitchen and bring bold flavors to life. Nestled on the sunny shores of Okauchee Lake, we specialize in scratch-made dishes, smoked meats, and unforgettable dining experiences—all served up with great vibes and a strong sense of community. About Us

Smoke on the Water isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a destination. Whether it’s locals boating in for a meal, families gathering for a special occasion, or live music setting the stage for a perfect night out, we deliver an atmosphere where strangers become friends and friends become family. Our food is as much about the experience as it is about the ingredients—fresh, high-quality, and crafted with care. The Role

As our Executive Chef / Kitchen Manager you’ll take the reins of our culinary program, leading a talented kitchen team to maintain the highest standards of quality, consistency, and creativity. You’ll have the opportunity to design specials, develop new menu items, and put your personal stamp on a beloved local favorite. Your expertise will ensure smooth operations, cost management, and an efficient, high-energy kitchen. Key Responsibilities

Lead & Inspire

– Manage and mentor a hardworking kitchen team, fostering a culture of teamwork, efficiency, and passion for great food. Menu & Culinary Creativity

– Oversee menu execution, develop innovative daily specials, and ensure top-notch quality in every dish. Scratch-Made Excellence

– Maintain high standards in our scratch kitchen, ensuring adherence to recipes, prep lists, and proper smoking techniques. (If you’re new to smoking, we’ll train you!) Operations & Cost Control

– Manage food costs, inventory, ordering, and waste reduction to ensure efficiency and profitability. Scheduling & Staffing

– Create effective schedules that align with business needs and maintain labor budgets. Catering & Special Events

– Lead kitchen operations for our private events and special occasions, delivering an unforgettable experience for guests. Team Player

– Willing to work alongside teammates in the kitchen when needed. Lake Vibes & Customer Satisfaction

– Work closely with the front-of-house team to ensure seamless service, happy guests, and a kitchen that thrives in our lively, high-energy atmosphere. What We’re Looking For

5+ years of experience leading a full-service kitchen. ServSafe certification (or willingness to obtain). Strong leadership, communication, and team-building skills. Passion for scratch-made food and high-quality ingredients. Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining quality and consistency. Knowledge of food costing, inventory management, and scheduling. Experience with smoked meats, BBQ, and catering is a plus—but if you’re a great chef willing to learn, we’ll train you! What We Offer

Competitive Pay

– Based on experience, skills, and past results. Work-Life Balance

– Flexible scheduling in a fun, supportive environment. Creative Freedom

– The chance to create and execute your own culinary vision. A Beautiful Workplace

– Enjoy coming to work every day at a lakeside gem, surrounded by great people and great food. Free Meals & Perks

– Because every great chef deserves a great meal! Growth Potential

– Be part of a growing, community-loved restaurant with room to evolve your career. Join the Smoke on the Water Family!

If you’re a dedicated chef with a passion for exceptional food and a love for lake life, we want to hear from you. Apply today by submitting your resume and cover letter. Let’s create something amazing together at Smoke on the Water!

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