Description
Executive Chef — Ava Gene’s
Portland, OR | Full-Time | Salary + Bonus + Benefits
ABOUT AVA GENE’S
Ava Gene’s is a celebrated Roman-inspired Italian restaurant rooted in seasonality, simplicity, and bold creativity. Located in Portland’s iconic Division Street food corridor, Ava Gene’s is known for its house-made pastas, vibrant vegetable dishes, and commitment to exceptional hospitality.
As we continue to evolve and grow, we are seeking a visionary Executive Chef to lead our kitchen with precision, warmth, and innovation. This is a rare opportunity to take the helm at one of Portland’s most acclaimed restaurants and shape its next chapter.
THE ROLE
As Executive Chef at Ava Gene’s, you will be the culinary force behind a restaurant deeply tied to its ingredients, its city, and its team. You’ll collaborate closely with Submarine Hospitality leadership to steward a menu that honors tradition while pushing boundaries. You’ll lead a talented BOH team with mentorship and rigor, ensure operational excellence, and contribute to a culture that prioritizes inclusivity, creativity, and sustainability.
RESPONSIBILITIES
Culinary Vision & Leadership
- Translate Ava Gene’s unique brand and creative direction into seasonally-driven menus that resonate with guests and team alike
- Champion product sourcing, development, and innovation that reflects both Roman traditions and Pacific Northwest bounty
- Partner with the Executive Director of Operations and Area Managers to continuously evolve and elevate the culinary program
Kitchen Operations & Financial Stewardship
- Oversee ordering, inventory, and cost management to achieve sustainable food and labor targets
- Maintain and improve systems for quality control, prep, production, cleanliness, and compliance
- Own kitchen performance through thoughtful scheduling, staff development, and accountability
Team Development & Culture
- Lead a BOH team through hands-on training, consistent feedback, and shared goals
- Foster a respectful, equitable, and collaborative kitchen culture where all team members feel seen and supported
- Work cross-functionally with FOH managers and corporate leadership to drive consistency and excellence in service
WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR
- 3+ years of experience as an Executive Chef or Chef de Cuisine in a high-volume, full-service restaurant (Italian or seasonal/vegetable-forward experience a plus)
- Proven ability to manage kitchen financials including food and labor costs
- Strong leadership style grounded in empathy, consistency, and team development
- Deep understanding of kitchen systems and the ability to both maintain and improve operational processes
- Passion for sourcing, sustainability, and working with local purveyors
- A calm, focused presence on the line and in the kitchen—even in the busiest moments
- Commitment to equity, inclusion, and hospitality for both guests and team members
SCHEDULE
Full-time, salaried position. Schedule may include weekends, holidays, and evenings based on business needs.
WHY JOIN US?
- Competitive salary + performance-based bonus
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Dining discounts across Submarine Hospitality restaurants
- Opportunities for professional development, culinary travel, and career growth
- A supportive, purpose-driven team and the chance to lead a Portland institution into its next era
Ava Gene’s is more than just a restaurant—it’s a place where food, people, and purpose come together. If you're a passionate, forward-thinking chef who’s ready to lead with integrity, we’d love to meet you.
