Private Executive Chef (2026)

Private Executive Chef Location: Atherton, CA. Employment Type: 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 and 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 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. Oversee kitchen operations from budgeting and sourcing to menu planning, ordering groceries, and managing inventory to ensure 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. 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. Collaborate with other household staff to plan and execute seamless meal preparations and events, continuously developing new recipes to keep meals exciting. 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. #J-18808-Ljbffr