Executive Chef – MaKaam Modern Artisan Thai
MaKaam Modern Artisan Thai is seeking an experienced, creative, and hands-on Executive Chef to lead our culinary team at Time Out Market Vancouver. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate chef who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is committed to delivering exceptional Thai cuisine with consistency, innovation, and operational excellence.
As Executive Chef, you will oversee all kitchen operations, mentor and develop the culinary team, maintain the highest food quality and safety standards, and work closely with management to ensure an outstanding guest experience.
Position Type
- Full-time
- Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays
- Immediate start available
Working Hours
Shifts vary based on operational needs and include mornings, evenings, weekends, and statutory holidays.
Salary
Starting from $65,000 per year + Tips
(Compensation will be based on experience and qualifications.)
Key ResponsibilitiesCulinary Leadership
- Lead and oversee all daily kitchen operations.
- Ensure every dish meets MaKaam's quality, presentation, and consistency standards.
- Maintain authentic Thai flavors while supporting menu innovation and seasonal features.
- Monitor food quality throughout service and provide coaching when needed.
Kitchen Operations
- Manage food preparation, production schedules, and service flow.
- Develop efficient kitchen procedures to maximize productivity.
- Control food costs, portioning, waste, and inventory levels.
- Order ingredients and maintain relationships with suppliers.
- Ensure equipment is properly maintained and report repair needs promptly.
Team Leadership
- Recruit, train, mentor, and supervise kitchen staff.
- Schedule employees to meet operational requirements.
- Foster a positive, respectful, and high-performing kitchen culture.
- Conduct performance evaluations and provide ongoing coaching and development.
Food Safety & Compliance
- Maintain compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and health regulations.
- Ensure kitchen cleanliness and organization at all times.
- Implement and monitor HACCP and safe food handling procedures.
- Maintain accurate temperature logs and sanitation records.
Business Performance
- Collaborate with ownership on menu planning, pricing, and profitability.
- Monitor labour and food costs while maintaining high quality standards.
- Support new menu launches and promotional initiatives.
- Contribute ideas that improve operational efficiency and guest satisfaction.
QualificationsExperience
- Minimum 3–5 years of leadership experience as an Executive Chef, Head Chef, or Sous Chef.
- Strong experience in Thai or Southeast Asian cuisine is highly preferred.
- Experience in high-volume restaurant operations.
- Experience with inventory management, food costing, and labour scheduling.
Skills & Abilities
- Excellent leadership and people management skills.
- Strong knowledge of Thai culinary techniques and ingredients.
- Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced environment.
- Excellent organizational and time-management skills.
- Strong problem-solving and decision-making abilities.
- Effective communication and teamwork skills.
- Proficiency in food cost control, inventory management, and kitchen budgeting.
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods.
- Able to lift up to 50 lbs.
- Comfortable working in a hot, busy kitchen environment.
- Ability to perform repetitive kitchen tasks throughout service.
Personal Qualities
- Passion for Thai cuisine and culinary excellence.
- Strong leadership with a positive and professional attitude.
- Reliable, organized, and accountable.
- Calm under pressure with excellent attention to detail.
- Committed to continuous learning and team development.
- Dedicated to creating an exceptional guest dining experience.
Why Join MaKaam?
MaKaam Modern Artisan Thai is a modern quick-service Thai concept created by the team behind Baan Lao Fine Thai Cuisine, recognized as one of Canada's most celebrated Thai restaurants and awarded Best Restaurant in Canada by the World Culinary Awards in 2024 and 2025.
As our Executive Chef, you'll have the opportunity to help shape the future of an innovative Thai brand while working with a passionate team dedicated to exceptional food, hospitality, and continuous growth.
What We Offer
- Competitive salary + tips
- Opportunities for career growth and leadership development
- Supportive and collaborative team culture
Location: Time Out Market Vancouver, Oakridge Park Mall, Vancouver, BC
Pay: From $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Discounted or free food
- Flexible schedule
Work Location: In person
