Private Executive Chef (2026)

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.