Smoak & Spirits is looking for a cook who takes pride in craftsmanship.
We're building something different in Tunkhannock. Smoak & Spirits isn't a chain, and it isn't a typical barbecue restaurant. Our kitchen combines traditional hardwood smoking with Italian comfort food, handmade specialties, seasonal ingredients, and influences from around the world. Every plate should tell the guest someone actually cared.
We're looking for a Sous Chef or Kitchen Lead who wants to help build a kitchen culture centered on quality, creativity, consistency, and hospitality.
This is a working leadership position. You'll cook every day, lead from the front, help develop the team, and have real input into the menu and direction of the restaurant.
What You'll Do
- Lead daily kitchen operations while working alongside the team.
- Ensure every plate leaving the kitchen meets our standards.
- Train, mentor, and develop cooks into better professionals.
- Manage prep, production, and service with efficiency and urgency.
- Maintain exceptional cleanliness, organization, and food safety.
- Assist with inventory, ordering, food costing, and waste reduction.
- Help create seasonal specials and contribute new menu ideas.
- Coordinate with the front-of-house team to create memorable guest experiences.
- Help build a positive, respectful kitchen culture where everyone works hard and has each other's backs.
What We're Looking For
- Several years of professional kitchen experience.
- Leadership experience as a Sous Chef, Kitchen Manager, or Lead Line Cook preferred.
- Confidence running a busy service without sacrificing quality.
- Strong understanding of butchery, smoking, grilling, sauté, and scratch cooking.
- A genuine appreciation for hospitality—not just cooking food.
- Organized, dependable, and calm under pressure.
- Someone who teaches rather than intimidates.
- A desire to build something you're proud to put your name on.
Bonus Experience
Experience with any of the following is a plus:
- Barbecue and live-fire cooking
- Handmade pasta or bread
- Catering or banquet production
- Menu development
- Inventory and food costing
- ServSafe certification
What We Offer
- Competitive pay based on experience
- Real opportunities for advancement
- Creative input into menus and specials
- A chef-driven environment where your ideas matter
If you believe great food starts with craftsmanship, teamwork, and respect for the ingredients, we'd like to meet you.
Pay: $24.00 - $30.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
