Catering Chef

Altius Search Group LLC; Saint Petersburg (FL); On-site; USD 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Altius Search Group LLC client, a premier elevated dining destination, seeks a Catering Chef to lead all culinary operations for a new catering kitchen in Saint Petersburg, FL. This role drives menu execution, production planning, food quality, and event support for weddings, corporate functions, and private dining experiences.

You will develop efficient systems, maintain high culinary standards, and mentor kitchen staff while partnering with the Director of Events to ensure flawless event

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years leading catering or high-volume events.
• Ability to manage multiple events with high quality.
• Strong organizational and leadership skills.
• ServSafe certification or ability to obtain.

Responsibilities

• Lead all culinary production for catered and private events.
• Plan and execute menus for on-site and off-site functions.
• Establish production schedules and kitchen workflows.
• Manage food ordering, inventory, and vendor relations.
• Control food and labor costs to meet goals.
• Hire, train, and develop kitchen staff.
• Ensure sanitation and health regulations compliance.
• Collaborate with Executive Chef and leadership on seasonal menus.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Event catering management

Food safety

Staff leadership

Job description

Our client, an elevated dining destination known for exceptional hospitality, innovative cuisine, and memorable guest experiences is in search of a Catering Chef. This Chef will oversee all culinary operations for the new catering kitchen, leading menu execution, production planning, food quality, and event support. This individual will play a key role in developing efficient systems, maintaining the highest culinary standards, and ensuring flawless execution for weddings, corporate functions, social events, and private dining experiences.

Responsibilities

• Lead all culinary production for catered and private events.
• Plan, prep, and execute menus for off-site and on-site functions.
• Partner with the Director of Events to ensure seamless event execution.
• Establish production schedules, prep systems, and kitchen workflows for the new catering operation.
• Maintain exceptional food quality, presentation, and consistency.
• Manage food ordering, inventory, and vendor relationships.
• Control food and labor costs while meeting financial goals.
• Hire, train, schedule, and develop catering kitchen staff.
• Ensure compliance with all sanitation, food safety, and health regulations.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and leadership team on seasonal menus and special event offerings.
• Assist with event setup and execution as needed.

Qualifications

• 3–5+ years of culinary leadership experience in catering, banquet, hotel, restaurant, or high-volume event operations.
• Proven ability to manage multiple events simultaneously while maintaining exceptional quality.
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Experience with production planning and large-scale food preparation.
• Knowledge of food costing, purchasing, inventory, and labor management.
• ServSafe Certification (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Flexible schedule including evenings, weekends, and holidays based on event needs.

Preferred Experience

• Experience launching or building a catering or commissary kitchen.
• Fine dining or upscale hospitality background.
• Experience with weddings, corporate catering, and luxury private events.