Private Executive Chef (2026)

Private Executive Chef
On-site Position in Atherton, CA

Full Time (40 hours/week), Non-Exempt/Hourly.


Work Hours: Five 8-hour days or four 10-hour days, with flexibility based on family needs. Early hours are expected for breakfast preparation, with weekend availability required.

COMPENSATION:

• $50 - $82/hour, DOE. (Non-Exempt/Hourly)

• Discretionary Bonus (Up to 20%)

• Health Insurance

• Paid Time Off: Includes vacation days, sick leave, and personal days

• Paid Meal Breaks

• Regular Reviews & Advancement Opportunities

SUMMARY:

Join a prestigious private household in Atherton, CA, as a Private Executive Chef, where your culinary passion will craft unforgettable dining experiences for an elite family. This role is a unique opportunity for an enthusiastic chef eager to create customized, healthy meals and surprise menus for special occasions like holidays and family milestones. Ideal for a creative professional seeking to lead a residential culinary program with artistic freedom, stability, and the chance to build trusted relationships in a high-end environment.

RESPONSIBILITIES:


Meal Preparation and Cooking
• Cook daily meals for the family and guests, tailoring dishes to preferences and dietary needs.

• Design surprise menus for holidays and family milestones, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create healthy, vibrant dishes.

• Create customized, diverse menus four weeks ahead, considering family preferences, dietary needs, seasonal ingredients, and including school lunches as part of the meal planning.

Kitchen Management and Operations
• Oversee kitchen operations from budgeting and sourcing to menu planning, ordering groceries, and managing inventory, ensuring seamless daily meal prep.
• Take charge of kitchen maintenance, regularly inspecting and ensuring all kitchen wares and equipment are in top condition for daily use.

Health, Hygiene, and Safety
• Keep the kitchen spotless and organized at all times, cleaning as you go to ensure efficiency and hygiene throughout the day.
• Maintain the highest standards of health, hygiene, and safety in the kitchen, ensuring proper food storage and sanitation at all times.

Team Collaboration and Communication
• Collaborate with other household staff to plan and execute seamless meal preparations and events, continuously developing new recipes to keep meals exciting.

Vendor Relations and Procurement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with local and regional food suppliers to ensure the freshest ingredients are always available.

JOB REQUIREMENTS:

• Minimum 7+ years of chef experience, preferably in Michelin-rated/fine dining establishments and private families, backed by a culinary degree or certificate.

• Proficiency in diverse cuisine styles; Asian fusion dishes are a plus.

• Flexible in work schedules, including weekends and holiday shifts.

• Capable of maintaining confidentiality and accommodating a limited range of dietary preferences for Principals.

• Comfortable with technology, including iPhone, MacBook, and Google Suite.

• Reliable, deadline-oriented, and able to work well as part of a residence team.

• Exceptional professional service with a respectful communication style, alongside understanding boundaries and maintaining discretion.


• Capable of performing a range of physical activities in the kitchen, including lifting up to 40 lbs and distinguishing flavors and aromas accurately.

• Good spatial awareness and ability to move efficiently in the workplace, handling various kitchen tasks with care and consideration.

• Knowledge of California sanitation regulations and Food ServSafe certification.

• US work authorization without visa sponsorship, and the ability to pass extensive background checks.

• Possession of a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.

• Ready for pre-employment health screenings, including physical, psychological exams, and drug tests; annual flu vaccination required.

• Annual flu shot required.

OUR CORE VALUES:

• Principals' First: Always put our principals' needs and interests first.

• Learn from mistakes: Admit mistakes upfront. Learns and grows from mistakes.

• Conscientious: Attention to detail. Finishes duties mindfully, effectively, and promptly.

• Dedication: Shows a deep commitment to the role and the company.


• Accountable: Takes ownership of tasks and completes thorough due diligence.

• Independent: Thinks and acts independently. Able to be self-taught and keep improving.

• Resilience: Never complains or shies away from work. Welcome feedback and can thrive under pressure.

WHY JOIN US?

• Prestigious Environment: Operate within a high-end private household, managing luxurious properties and engaging with an exclusive clientele.

• Strategic Impact: Play a crucial role in shaping and optimizing household operations, contributing to the overall efficiency and excellence of the residence.

• Professional Growth: Access to continuous learning opportunities, including specialized training and potential for career advancement within a prestigious organization.

• Technology-Driven Operations: Work in an environment that prioritizes modern tools and systems for seamless communication, task management, and operational efficiency.

• Competitive Compensation: Enjoy a highly competitive salary range with significant earning potential through performance-based bonuses and comprehensive benefits.

• Supportive Culture: Thrive in a collaborative and supportive work environment that values dedication, integrity, and excellence.

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