Executive Chef / Kitchen Operator Gringo's Grill Food Trailer
Job Description Job Description Gringo’s Grill is hiring an Executive Chef / Kitchen Manager to help lead our food trailer operation at a permanent location from July through October 31, with the goal of staying open longer if business supports winter operations. This is a hands-on leadership role for someone who can cook, lead, organize, and help run the day-to-day kitchen operation. We are hiring a full staff, so this is not a one-person job. We need the right person to help lead the kitchen, train the team, manage prep and service, and communicate with ownership on what the operation needs to succeed. This position comes with a lot of freedom, but also real responsibility. The ideal candidate is self-motivated, reliable, organized, and comfortable taking ownership without needing to be micromanaged. Menu Creativity & Collaboration We are open to building and adjusting the menu around the right chef’s strengths, experience, and creativity. The current menu is not set in stone. If you have dishes, techniques, specials, or a style of food you specialize in, we want to hear it. We are willing to rewrite or shift the menu as long as the items fit the food trailer setup, meet health department requirements, and make sense from a cost, speed, and profitability standpoint. The creative direction of the food can be driven heavily by the chef. Ownership will work with you on pricing, execution, sourcing, operations, and what makes sense for the business. Responsibilities Run daily kitchen operations inside the Gringo’s Grill food trailer. Prepare and execute menu items consistently during service. Lead, train, and help manage kitchen staff. Maintain prep lists, portioning, food rotation, labeling, and cleaning standards. Help manage inventory, ordering needs, food waste, and daily kitchen organization. Maintain food safety and cleanliness standards. Communicate with the owner about staffing, supplies, equipment, scheduling, menu needs, and operational improvements. Help build systems that allow the business to operate smoothly and grow. Ideal Candidate Kitchen experience required. Leadership or kitchen management experience preferred. Food truck, catering, restaurant, event kitchen, or high-volume kitchen experience is a plus. Must be able to stay calm during service, lead without ego, solve problems, and take pride in running a clean and consistent kitchen. We are looking for someone who wants creative input, responsibility, and the opportunity to help build something instead of just clocking in and cooking. Schedule Permanent location from July through October 31. Goal is to stay open as long as possible if business supports winter operations. Hours and schedule will depend on business volume, staffing, and final operating days. Compensation Pay based on experience and level of responsibility. Open to discussing hourly pay, salary structure, performance incentives, or growth-based compensation for the right candidate.
