Executive Chef

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions; Mount Pocono (PA); On-site; USD 90,000 - 140,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Career growth opportunities

401(k) matching

Health, dental, and vision coverage

Employee appreciation events and perks

Job summary

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is seeking a Resort Executive Chef to oversee all culinary responsibilities and lead a fast-paced, high-volume operation. You will report to the Director of Food and Beverage, guide a world-class team, manage budgets, and deliver extraordinary dining experiences.

You’ll drive strategic direction, mentor staff, and ensure seamless collaboration across departments, with a focus on innovation and guest satisfaction. Join a family‑oriented leader in luxury hospitality.

Qualifications

• 5+ years of progressive culinary experience, with 2–4 years in an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef role.
• 3+ years of management experience in a large hotel (500+ rooms) or large banquet setting.
• Proven success managing multi‑outlet operations including restaurants, banquets, room service, and events.

Responsibilities

• Lead Culinary Operations across resort dining venues, ensuring consistent quality and guest satisfaction.
• Build and manage a high-performing team with a culture of excellence and professionalism.
• Oversee budgets and costs: food, labor, inventory, and vendor relationships for profitability.
• Uphold safety and sanitation standards through strict compliance.
• Enhance guest experience through collaboration with F&B teams and leadership presence.
• Align culinary experiences with branding, marketing, and cross‑department initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Budgeting

Cost control

Inventory management

Purchasing

Vendor negotiation

Education

Culinary degree/diploma

Job description

At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, we don’t just create vacations—we craft unforgettable experiences. Home to America’s Largest Indoor Waterparks, our African-inspired resorts offer world-class dining, luxurious spas, thrilling entertainment, and cutting-edge convention centers that redefine hospitality.

But we’re more than a resort. As a family-owned company, our Promise is simple: Lead with Love. This means caring deeply for our guests, associates, and communities—treating people like family, giving back generously, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued.

Through our partnership with charity: water, we’re also committed to bringing clean water to one million people in Africa.

Property Executive Chef

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is seeking a Resort Executive Chef. In this role, you will oversee all culinary responsibilities and report to the Director of Food and Beverage. You need to love a fast-paced, ever-changing, and high-volume environment. You’ll be a hands‑on, roll‑up‑the‑sleeves type of manager who values team members and fosters great internal relationships with other departments.

As part of our leadership team, you’ll embody our Promise to Lead with Love—guiding, supporting, and inspiring associates while delivering extraordinary guest experiences. This role goes far beyond the kitchen. You’ll be driving strategic direction, building and mentoring a world‑class team, managing budgets, and curating unforgettable dining experiences that will set the tone for everything to come. If you’re passionate about innovation, excellence, and creating something truly special, we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Culinary Operations across all resort dining venues, ensuring consistent quality, presentation, and guest satisfaction.
• Build & Manage a High-Performing Team, fostering a culture of excellence, creativity, and professionalism.
• Manage Budgets & Costs by overseeing food, labor, inventory, and vendor relationships to ensure profitability.
• Uphold Safety & Compliance standards, maintaining strict food safety and sanitation protocols.
• Enhance the Guest Experience through collaboration with F&B teams and a visible leadership presence.
• Support Resort Strategy by aligning culinary experiences with branding, marketing, and cross‑departmental initiatives.
• Oversee Kitchen Facilities, ensuring equipment readiness and long‑term operational efficiency.

What We’re Looking For

• 5+ years of progressive culinary experience, with at least 2–4 years in an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef role.
• 3 or more years of management experience in a large hotel (500+ rooms) or attached to a large banquet (75,000+ sq. ft).
• Proven success managing multi‑outlet operations, including restaurants, banquets, room service, and special events.
• Positive, uplifting hands‑on leader, excited to help lead strong culinary teams!
• Strong background in budgeting, food and labor cost control, inventory management, purchasing, and vendor negotiation.
• Culinary Degree or Diploma from an accredited culinary school (or equivalent experience).
• Extensive resort or luxury hotel experience (4‑star or 5‑star properties preferred).

A Sampling of Our Benefits

Our team enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Career growth opportunities with promotion from within
• 401(k) matching, paid time off, and holiday compensation
• Health, dental, and vision coverage for full‑time associates
• Employee appreciation events, discounts, and perks at all resorts
• Education assistance programs to help advance your career

Be Part of Something Extraordinary

At Kalahari, we believe the best leaders Lead with Love—because love builds trust, inspires growth, and creates experiences that last a lifetime. That’s why we’re proud to be recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Midsize Employers, America’s Best Employers for Women, and by USA TODAY as the #1 Best Indoor Water Park.

Here, careers thrive, innovation is encouraged, and every day brings new opportunities to create meaningful moments. Whether you’re delivering guest service, crafting memorable meals, or leading a team, your work makes a real impact.

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Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an Equal Opportunity Employer.