MICHAEL ORTEGA
Big Sur Grill
Santa Clarita,CA
9
years of professional experience
Dynamic culinary expert with a proven track record in team collaboration and a commitment to delivering exceptional results. Expertise includes menu development, kitchen management, and high-quality food preparation, ensuring a memorable dining experience. Renowned for adaptability and reliability, consistently achieving excellence in fast-paced and evolving environments. Recognized for strong leadership and creativity while upholding the highest standards across all culinary operations.
Work History
Executive Chef
8 Months- Directed culinary operations, ensuring high-quality food preparation and presentation standards.
- Developed innovative seasonal menus to enhance guest experiences and drive customer satisfaction.
- Managed kitchen staff, providing training and mentorship to improve skills and efficiency.
- Implemented cost control measures, optimizing inventory management and reducing waste.
- Collaborated with suppliers to source fresh, local ingredients supporting sustainable practices.
- Collaborated with front of house to ensure cohesive and superior guest experience.
- Designed farm-to-table concept that elevated restaurant's market position and appeal.
- Developed new recipes and flavor combinations to enhance customer dining experience.
Sous Chef
2 Years 2 Months- - Lead kitchen operations and manage a team of 12–15 line cooks and prep staff while ensuring adherence to health and safety standards.
- - Ensure consistent food quality and presentation in a fast-paced, high-volume environment.
- - Handle inventory, vendor orders, and back-of-house scheduling.
- - Maintain strict food safety standards and mentor new kitchen staff.
Event Chef
1 Year- Collaborated with event planners for seamless execution of catered functions, resulting in positive feedback from clients.
- Sampled each dish for quality control prior to serving, identifying mistakes and solving immediately.
- Demonstrated versatility in cuisine styles, adapting menus to accommodate dietary restrictions or cultural preferences as needed.
- Led special catering events, coordinating logistics and ensuring seamless execution of services.
Sous Chef / Safety Manager
2 Years 6 Months- - Oversaw kitchen operations and implemented safety protocols for 40+ employees.
- - Coordinated bi-weekly inventory, reduced waste, and improved order accuracy.
- - Facilitated onboarding, training, and professional development programs.
- - Led safety meetings, compliance inspections, and injury reduction initiatives.
Kitchen Supervisor
1 Year- - Managed line operations and collaborated with FOH management for smooth service.
- - Trained staff in safety, sanitation, and food prep techniques.
- - Reduced kitchen waste and upheld food safety inspection standards.
Line Cook
2 Years 1 Month- - Executed sauté, broil, and fry station with precision during high-volume service.
- - Prepped ingredients and sauces to company standards.
- - Maintained a clean and organized station to meet health code compliance.
Skills
Achieved seamless kitchen operations through effective management and strategic scheduling. Enhanced team collaboration
resulting in improved service quality and customer satisfaction.
Developed and executed comprehensive training strategies to support team development and optimize hiring practices.
Achieved high safety compliance rates through proactive quality control measures. Enhanced operational efficiency by identifying and mitigating potential safety risks. Improved team performance by implementing effective quality assurance practices.
Strong knowledge with inventory management and vendor ordering through proactive oversight. Enhanced operational efficiency by fostering strong vendor partnerships and ensuring timely stock replenishment. Drove improvements in supply chain processes
resulting in increased reliability and reduced lead times.
Coordinated daily service activities
ensuring seamless operations for 250+ covers in a fast-paced environment.
Implemented Ceridian scheduling software to facilitate accurate and timely staff scheduling
ensuring optimal resource allocation.
Timeline
Executive Chef
Big Sur Grill
02.2026 - CurrentRead More
Sous Chef
Saint & Second
12.2023 - 02.2026Read More
Event Chef
Bruce's Catering
11.2023 - 11.2024Read More
Sous Chef / Safety Manager
Kings Seafood Company (Meat On Ocean)
03.2021 - 09.2023Read More
Kitchen Supervisor
Kings Seafood Company
03.2020 - 03.2021Read More
Line Cook
Kings Seafood Company
02.2018 - 03.2020Read More