Head Chef Job Ocean City area,Maryland USA,Restaurant/Food Service

Opened in 1984 by brothers John and Hale Harrison, Harbor Watch has become one of Ocean City’s most iconic waterfront dining destinations. The restaurant’s striking timber construction and expansive windows provide guests with unobstructed views of Assateague Island, the Ocean City inlet, and the Atlantic coastline. From wild ponies and dolphins to pelicans and passing fishing boats, Harbor Watch delivers a dining experience that is as visually memorable as it is culinary.

Inside, guests are immersed in a nostalgic seafaring atmosphere. Nautical artifacts, historic Ocean City photographs, and preserved maritime décor reflect the rich coastal heritage that defines Harbor Watch. For over four decades, the restaurant has maintained its commitment to tradition while continuing to evolve with the tastes of modern coastal dining.

Harbor Watch operates as part of Harrison Group, a third–generation family business owned and operated in Ocean City, Maryland since 1951. The Harrison Group operates over fifteen hotels and seven restaurants across Ocean City, Maryland;
Virginia Beach, Virginia;
Corolla, North Carolina; and Jacksonville Beach, Florida. Our portfolio continues to evolve through ongoing renovations, culinary innovation, and a steadfast commitment to exceptional guest experiences.

We are seeking a Head Chef who will honor Harbor Watch’s coastal legacy while bringing creativity, leadership, and operational discipline to elevate its Atlantic–inspired culinary program.

Job Title

Head Chef

Location

Harbor Watch

Reports To

Harbor Watch General Manager

Basic Purpose

The Head Chef of Harbor Watch is responsible for leading all culinary operations of the restaurant, ensuring exceptional food quality, consistency, and creativity with a strong emphasis on Atlantic coastal cuisine. This position plays a central role in shaping the guest experience by developing seasonal seafood‑driven menus, maintaining operational excellence, and leading a high‑performing kitchen team.

Organizational Scope

The Head Chef collaborates closely with the General Manager, Restaurant Managers, Front of House leadership, and other culinary leaders within the Harrison Group portfolio. This role provides direct leadership to all kitchen staff and ensures alignment between menu development, cost management, staffing, training, and guest satisfaction.

The Head Chef maintains a daily leadership presence in production and service, ensuring standards are consistently executed in a high‑volume, seasonal waterfront environment.

Essential Functions

Oversee all culinary operations at Harbor Watch, ensuring excellence in preparation, presentation, and execution.

Design, test, and implement seasonal menus centered on Atlantic coastal cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood, regional sourcing, and coastal‑inspired flavors.

Maintain a consistent daily presence in the kitchen to supervise service, support staff, and ensure operational flow.

Manage food cost, labor cost, inventory, and procurement to meet financial targets and company standards.

Recruit, train, develop, and evaluate culinary staff, fostering a professional, respectful, and performance‑driven kitchen culture.

Ensure compliance with all local and state food safety regulations and maintain strict adherence to sanitation and HACCP standards.

Partner with Food & Beverage leadership to align culinary offerings with marketing initiatives, seasonal promotions, and overall guest experience objectives.

Develop and maintain standardized recipes, prep lists, production schedules, and plating guides.

Oversee vendor relationships, with a focus on sourcing high‑quality seafood and regional ingredients while negotiating favorable pricing.

Support special events, large party dining, and seasonal volume fluctuations with appropriate staffing and menu planning.

Monitor equipment functionality and coordinate maintenance to ensure a safe and efficient kitchen environment.

Protect organizational value by ensuring compliance with company policies and promoting a culture of accountability and teamwork.

Perform additional culinary and administrative duties as assigned.

Education

Culinary degree from an accredited…


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