Executive Chef

Compass Group USA; Atherton (CA); On-site; USD 100,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Menlo School is seeking an Executive Chef to lead culinary operations for a grades 6-12 community. You will oversee menu development, food preparation, and a talented team while focusing on budgeting, inventory, and safety in a fast-paced school dining environment.

The role emphasizes creativity, scratch cooking, and delivering nutritious, high-quality meals to support student success, with a Monday–Friday schedule and occasional events in the evenings or weekends.

Qualifications

• High-volume foodservice experience
• Experience in menu development and scratch cooking
• Proven ability to lead a culinary team
• Experience managing food and labor costs
• Passion for culinary excellence in an educational setting

Responsibilities

• Oversee all culinary operations at Menlo School
• Develop menus and lead scratch cooking initiatives
• Manage budgeting, inventory, and food safety compliance
• Provide strong team leadership and professional development
• Plan and execute special events and catering for the school community

Skills

High-volume service

Menu development

Scratch cooking

Team leadership

Budgeting

Inventory management

Food safety compliance

Event planning

Job description

Are you a passionate culinary leader looking for an opportunity that offers both creativity and work-life balance?

Menlo School, a nationally recognized independent school serving students in grades 6-12, is searching for an exceptional Executive Chef to lead culinary operations and create memorable dining experiences for our vibrant school community.

As the Executive Chef, you'll oversee all culinary operations, including menu development, food preparation, team leadership, budgeting, inventory management, food safety compliance, and special events. This is a hands‑on leadership role for someone who thrives in a fast‑paced environment and is passionate about delivering exceptional food and service.

At Menlo School, you'll have the unique opportunity to combine your culinary expertise with a greater purpose, helping nourish and support the next generation of leaders.

Salary: $100,000 - $110,000 (based on skills, experience, and work history)

Schedule: Monday - Friday, with occasional evenings and weekends for special events

Why You'll Love This Opportunity:

• Monday-Friday schedule with a strong focus on work-life balance
• Lead a talented culinary team in a mission-driven environment
• Showcase your creativity through menu innovation and scratch cooking
• Make a meaningful impact by fueling student success through nutritious, high-quality meals
• Collaborate with a supportive community that values excellence, inclusion, and innovation

• Strong background in high-volume foodservice, hospitality, education, or catering
• Experience with menu development, scratch cooking, and team development
• Proven success managing food and labor costs
• A passion for culinary excellence and creating an outstanding guest experience

Ready to bring your talent to a community that values creativity, collaboration, and excellence? We'd love to hear from you!