Job Summary
We are seeking a dynamic and passionate Executive Chef to lead our culinary team and elevate our food service operations. As the culinary visionary, you will oversee all aspects of kitchen management, menu development, and food quality assurance. Your leadership will inspire creativity, uphold the highest standards of food safety and hygiene, and ensure an exceptional dining experience for our guests. This role offers an exciting opportunity to showcase your culinary expertise while managing a diverse team in a fast-paced, hospitality-focused environment.
Duties
- Lead the development and execution of innovative menus that reflect current culinary trends and guest preferences, ensuring consistency and excellence in every dish
- Supervise daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, cooking, plating, and presentation to uphold quality standards
- Manage inventory control, including ordering, stock rotation, and waste reduction to optimize food costs and minimize loss
- Oversee dietary department functions to accommodate special dietary needs while maintaining nutritional integrity and compliance with health regulations
- Coordinate catering events, banquets, and large-scale food production with precision and efficiency
- Supervise and mentor kitchen staff, fostering a collaborative environment that encourages skill development and teamwork
- Ensure adherence to food safety protocols, sanitation standards, and regulatory compliance across all kitchen activities
- Oversee shift management, including scheduling staff rotations to ensure smooth operations during peak hours
- Maintain accurate records of food production costs, inventory levels, and departmental reports for continuous improvement
- Collaborate with management on menu planning, pricing strategies, and promotional initiatives to enhance guest satisfaction
Experience
- Proven experience as an Executive Chef or similar leadership role within a high-volume restaurant or hospitality setting
- Extensive culinary expertise with a strong background in fine dining cuisine and food presentation techniques
- Demonstrated success in supervising teams within fast-paced environments with multiple service outlets such as banquets or catering services
- Strong knowledge of food safety standards, sanitation practices, and regulatory compliance (e.g., HACCP certifications)
- Experience managing inventory control systems and controlling food costs effectively
- Background in menu planning that balances creativity with operational efficiency
- Excellent leadership skills with the ability to motivate diverse teams and foster a positive work environment
- Familiarity with kitchen management software or POS systems used for order tracking and inventory management
EXECUTIVE CHEF - FOUNDING CULINARY LEADER Build something that matters - in a market that will remember it.
An exceptional opportunity to take the helm of a new, independent, chef-driven restaurant in the heart of Vail. Positioned in one of the valley’s most sought-after locations, this 100-seat, full-service concept (lunch + dinner, seven days a week) is designed to deliver refined, high-energy dining with timeless influence and modern execution.
This is not a plug-and-play role. This is a founding position - for a chef ready to leave a mark.
Why This Role Stands Apart You will build the kitchen from zero - team, systems, culture, and standards You will shape a menu rooted in technique, balance, and restraint, with room for creativity and evolution You will partner with ownership that trusts operators and values long-term vision over short-term noise You will operate in Vail - where quality is noticed, and reputations are earned quickly
Who You Are A proven Executive Chef with a refined culinary foundation and a clear point of view You value technique, discipline, and consistency as much as creativity Experienced in high-volume, high-expectation environments without sacrificing standards A builder of teams and culture, not just menus Financially literate, operationally sharp, and highly organized Familiarity with - or desire to be part of - the Vail Valley market is a strong plus (Chefs with classical training or experience in structured, technique-driven kitchens will find this environment especially aligned.)
Compensation & Opportunity Salary: $90–100K+ (flexible for the right candidate) Performance-based bonus potential Relocation assistance available A true opportunity to build legacy in one of Colorado’s most respected hospitality markets
To Apply Please send your resume and a brief cover letter to: [email protected]
Qualified candidates will receive full concept details and next steps.
Join us as an Executive Chef where your culinary talents will shine! Bring your passion for exceptional food service, your leadership skills, and your innovative spirit to create memorable dining experiences that delight every guest. We are committed to supporting your growth in a vibrant environment where excellence is celebrated.
Pay: $90,000.00 - $100,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- Dental insurance
- Food provided
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
- Vision insurance
Work Location: In person
