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.