Private Chef

An entrepreneurial, young professional, and dynamic family based in Palo Alto is seeking an experienced Private Chef to join their household full-time. This is a newly created role for a chef who is excited to become an instrumental part of the family's lifestyle, nutrition, and daily routine through thoughtful meal planning and nourishing cuisine.

The ideal candidate will bring a strong understanding of high-quality, health-conscious cooking while still delivering elevated, comforting, and flavor-driven meals. The family enjoys a variety of cuisines with an emphasis on Italian, Western, and fresh seasonal cooking, while also appreciating bold flavors, including Cantonese soups and teas.

Responsibilities

• Prepare daily lunch and dinner for the family, with light breakfast prep as needed
• Create a variety of cuisines with a focus on Italian, Western, and clean, flavorful cooking
• Incorporate bold flavors and comfort elements, including Cantonese soups and teas, where appropriate
• Develop weekly meal plans while remaining flexible for ad hoc requests
• Support the family's health and wellness goals through balanced, high-quality meals
• Accommodate dietary preferences and allergies, including nut sensitivities
• Source high-quality ingredients and manage grocery shopping/provisioning
• Maintain an organized, clean, and efficient kitchen environment
• Coordinate seamlessly with household staff and adapt to the family's schedule and needs
• Provide more formal service for occasional guests or special events when needed

Schedule

• Primarily Monday-Friday
• Mid-morning start through dinner service
• Flexibility appreciated based on family needs and occasional entertaining

Ideal Candidate:

• Strong culinary training and/or high-level restaurant or private household experience
• Comfortable cooking healthy, family-style meals while maintaining elevated standards
• Calm, discreet, and emotionally intelligent presence
• Able to work independently and confidently manage kitchen operations
• Flexible, collaborative, and open-minded approach to service
• Child-friendly demeanor and team-player mentality preferred
• Bay Area-based candidates encouraged, though relocation assistance may be considered for the right fit

Compensation:

• $160,000-$300,000 DOE
• Grocery and provisioning budget provided
• Opportunity for long-term growth with a kind and appreciative family

Trial:

Final candidates will be invited to complete a paid trial preparing lunch, dinner, and one breakfast item.

This role is ideal for a chef seeking a meaningful long-term placement with a family that values quality, warmth, health-conscious living, flexibility, and professionalism.

To Apply:

Please apply at for consideration; if already on our job board, click Apply Now. Qualified applicants will be contacted.

#indmps

Our Story:

Mahler Private Staffing works with America's leading families to find experienced private domestic staffing professionals for their homes and family offices. We take a personalized approach and work to get to know our candidates as well as we know our clients, so we can make lasting, long-term placements.

Due to the overwhelming number of applicants, we regret that we are unable to provide individual responses. Rest assured that selected candidates will be personally contacted for further consideration. We would like to emphasize that there are no fees associated with the application process for applicants.