Part-Time Chef
Opportunity to Grow into a Full-Time Leadership Role
Location: Berkshire Mountain Distillers, Inc.
At Berkshire Mountain Distillers, we're creating something new in our community—a welcoming outdoor beer garden and gathering place centered around cocktails, local beer, simple but elevated food, games, music, and genuine hospitality. Days of restaurant operation Thursday – Sunday, 12pm – 6pm
We're looking for an enthusiastic, creative, and hardworking young chef who’s able to join our lean team during this exciting launch. This position begins as part-time, with significant opportunity to grow into a full-time role as the restaurant expands.
This is initially a small operation with limited staff, so the ability to work efficiently independently is key. If you've ever wanted the chance to help build something from the ground up, this may be the opportunity you've been looking for.
About the Concept
Our beer garden is intentionally small, thoughtful, and community-focused. The menu will feature elevated comfort food inspired by seasonal New England ingredients, local farms, and artisanal preparation. Think oven fired or artisan-style pizzas, homemade focaccia, grilled sausages, fresh herbs, creative sandwiches, charcuterie boards with pickled vegetables from our farm, and shareable plates designed to pair beautifully with craft beer and award-winning spirits.
Most seating will be outdoors, with the flexibility to expand into an indoor dining space during busy periods or inclement weather.
Our goal is to create a memorable destination where friends gather, families linger, visitors discover the Berkshires, and every meal feels both relaxed and thoughtfully prepared.
What You'll Do
Initially, you'll work to help bring our concept to life by:
- Preparing and executing a focused seasonal menu
- Assisting with menu development and recipe refinement
- Helping establish kitchen systems, organization, and workflow
- Maintaining high standards of cleanliness, food safety, and consistency
- Managing prep, inventory, and ingredient ordering
- Working collaboratively with front-of-house staff to deliver exceptional hospitality
- Contributing ideas as the menu and operation naturally evolve throughout the season
As the business grows, there will be opportunities to expand responsibilities and help shape the future direction of the restaurant.
We're Looking for Someone Who Is...
- Passionate about simple food prepared exceptionally well
- Excited by farm-to-table cooking and seasonal ingredients
- Appreciative of artisanal techniques and thoughtful presentation
- Flexible and comfortable working in a startup environment where plans may evolve
- Calm under pressure and adaptable to changing business levels
- Self-motivated and willing to take ownership
- A positive team player with a strong work ethic
- Someone who genuinely enjoys hospitality and creating memorable guest experiences
- Interested in helping build—not just work in—a new concept
Most importantly, we're looking for someone who is excited by possibility and enjoys being part of a small team creating something meaningful.
Preferred Qualifications
- Professional kitchen experience
- Experience with fast-casual, farm-to-table, or seasonal restaurants
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
- Ability to work evenings, weekends, and special events
- Experience developing menus is a plus, though enthusiasm and creativity are equally valued
Skills
- Proven experience in catering, or restaurant environments with strong culinary skills.
- Demonstrated team management experience within a food service setting.
- Extensive knowledge of food handling, preparation techniques, and food safety sanitizing procedures.
- Experience with inventory control, cost management, and food production processes.
- Ability to lead shift management activities.
- Familiarity with dietary department requirements and accommodating special dietary needs.
- Strong communication skills
- Competence in managing kitchen operations efficiently while maintaining high standards of hospitality.
- Ability to be open-minded, flexible, positive and committed to great hospitality.
Why This Position Is Different
Launching a new concept requires flexibility, patience, and optimism. The first season will involve learning, adapting, and growing together. Some days will be busier than expected; others will be opportunities to refine the experience.
Pay: $20.00 - $30.00 per hour
Work Location: In person
