Executive Chef

Ferment Brewing Company is perched on the banks of the Columbia River in Hood River, Oregon, where we bring together tradition and innovation in fermentation. Our beers, kombuchas, and food all reflect a commitment to craft, creativity, and community. We're seeking an Executive Chef to lead our culinary team and help elevate our food program to the next level.

The Executive Chef is responsible for the vision and execution of Ferment's food program. This includes leading menu development, ensuring consistent quality, managing a team of kitchen staff, and keeping operations smooth, cost-effective, and compliant. You'll report to the General Manager and work closely with brewery leadership to align food with our identity and customer experience.

Menu & Food Program: Drive seasonal, innovative menus that pair seamlessly with our beers, highlighting fermentation and local ingredients.

Leadership: Manage, mentor, and develop the BOH team, including sous chefs. Recruit, hire, train, and conduct evaluations.

Operations: Oversee daily kitchen operations, food quality, portion control, presentation, and adherence to health and sanitation standards.

Financial Stewardship: Manage ordering, inventory, scheduling, and food costs to meet KPI goals.

Culture & Collaboration: Build and maintain a positive, inclusive, and professional kitchen culture. Partner with FOH and brewery teams for cohesive service and programming.

Strategic Role: Participate in leadership meetings and company-wide initiatives to strengthen culture, improve systems, and expand programming.

5+ years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.

Strong background in menu development, food cost management, and team leadership.

Proven ability to work in a high-volume, fast-paced environment.

Familiarity with fermentation, seasonal sourcing, and pairing food with craft beverages preferred.

Excellent organizational and communication skills.

At Ferment, you'll work in one of the most scenic settings in the Pacific Northwest, with the Columbia River and Mt. Hood as your backdrop. Beyond running a well-established culinary program and kitchen, you'll have access to the outdoor lifestyle that makes Hood River a world-class destination from wind sports, hiking, biking, to skiing and river adventures. You'll have the opportunity to shape and elevate a food program that complements a nationally recognized brewery, collaborate with a creative team, and become part of a community that values quality, innovation, and hospitality.