Culinary Specialist

The Culinary Specialist and Horticultural Specialist at Boulder Crest Foundation reports to the Executive Director and is responsible for the overall care and upkeep of the central kitchen and the walled garden. The role requires a proficient culinary background, gardening expertise, and strong organizational and interpersonal skills. The position is physically demanding and requires spending significant time on feet and outdoors. Overview Provide exceptional service to guests and participants, maintain a 5-star experience for all guests and volunteers, and support the Operations Team in ensuring the Lodge and Retreat are in impeccable order. Responsibilities Plan and prepare hot and cold foods, including sauces, soups, and vegetable dishes; butcher and prepare meats, poultry, and fish. Create menus and meals for programs based on dietary restrictions of participants. Shop for ingredients, maintain inventory of staples and kitchen supplies, and replenish as necessary. Monitor food quality, taste, texture, and appearance; identify and dispose of spoiled or defective items. Perform daily housekeeping duties related to food and kitchen equipment. Observe disease control practices at all times. Assist the Property Manager in maintaining the appearance of the retreat’s walled organic garden: pruning, fertilizing, planting, weeding, trimming, watering, and cleaning. Harvest vegetables and herbs for use in the kitchen and to serve guests. Oversee all kitchen activities, volunteers, and subcontractors. Minimum Requirements High school diploma or equivalent; 1–5+ years of experience in the culinary field. A valid driver’s license and good driving record (required for retreat vehicle use and occasional errands). Strong cooking, gardening, organizational, time‑management, and interpersonal skills. Patient, detail-oriented, physically fit, and able to work on feet while standing, walking, and lifting up to 50 pounds. Physical Demands The role requires frequent sitting, standing, walking, speaking, and hearing; extensive cleaning; heavy lifting; and use of kitchen and garden tools. Employees must have the dexterity to use all required equipment. Travel Must be able to travel to work and run errands within 100 miles of Bluemont, Virginia. Work Environment The work environment is a small, busy facility with low to moderate noise levels. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for qualified individuals with disabilities. Capabilities / Qualities Required Expert in kitchen and garden management. Skilled with hand and power tools. Ability to make informed decisions and follow guidance from the Operations Manager. Expert in delivering excellent customer service. Strong communication skills in English. Team player who works well with supervisors and peers. Knowledge of MAC OS and Google Drive. Disclaimer The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. All personnel may be required to perform duties outside of their normal responsibilities from time to time, as needed. #J-18808-Ljbffr Boulder Crest Foundation