Executive Chef

Position Title: Executive Chef

Pay 16

Reports To:

Salary: $130,000 - $140,000

Other Forms of Compensation: Bonus Plan

Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry’s leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations! Voted Glassdoor's Employee Choice Awards - Best Places to Work,

Job Summary

We are seeking a passionate and accomplished Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations of a high-volume, multi-faceted dining destination. This is a hands-on, knife-in-hand role for a chef who thrives in the kitchen as much as in leadership, setting the standard for excellence by working side-by-side with the team.

As Executive Chef, you will set the culinary vision, drive innovation, and ensure that every dish reflects the highest standards of quality, creativity, and presentation. You will inspire and mentor your team while overseeing menu development, purchasing, inventory, and cost management, all while being actively engaged in service execution. Candidates must be comfortable with a schedule that includes nights, weekends, and holidays as part of leading a true hospitality-driven operation.

What you’ll do:

• Establish and elevate culinary standards across restaurant, dining, and catering operations
• Lead menu development with a focus on seasonality, creativity, and on-trend offerings
• Champion Corporate Social Responsibility, health, wellness, and sustainable practices
• Train, mentor, and develop a high-performing culinary team with a focus on excellence and hospitality
• Oversee purchasing, inventory, and cost control while maintaining quality and consistency
• Lead from the line, working side by side with the team during service and events
• Monitor performance and drive continuous improvement in kitchen operations
• Serve as a culinary ambassador, ensuring every guest experience is memorable

What we’re looking for:

• Culinary degree or Bachelor’s in Food Services Management (preferred)
• 3–5 years of progressive culinary or kitchen management experience, ideally in fine dining or catering
• Proven expertise in high-volume production and event execution
• Strong leadership skills with a collaborative, hands-on approach
• Deep knowledge of culinary trends, menu development, and food & beverage cost controls
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and kitchen management systems
• ServSafe® or HACCP certification preferred
• Flexibility to work nights, weekends, and holidays in a fast-paced hospitality environment

Apply to Restaurant Associates today!

Restaurant Associates is a member of Compass Group USA

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.

Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/ AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Personal Leave

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Restaurant Associates maintains a drug-free workplace.

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here for paid time off benefits information.

Req ID: 1459015

Restaurant Associates

Michael Abbey

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