Executive Chef

The Preserve at Palm aire; Pompano Beach (FL); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance

Paid Time Off

401(k) with Company Match

Employee Meal Program

Job summary

The Preserve at Palm aire is seeking an Executive Chef to oversee all culinary operations in a senior living community. You will lead the kitchen team, develop creative menus, ensure top food quality and safety, and collaborate with Dining Services to enhance resident satisfaction.

The role requires flexibility for holidays, weekends, and events, and involves budgeting, inventory control, and staff development to maintain a high-standard dining experience for residents and guests.

Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of Executive Chef experience required.
• Preferred experience in Senior Living, Assisted Living, or Healthcare Dining Services.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Knowledge of therapeutic diets preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily kitchen operations and supervise culinary staff.
• Develop, plan, and execute nutritious, resident-focused menus.
• Ensure all food is prepared and presented to established standards.
• Manage inventory, purchasing, and food cost controls.
• Recruit, train, coach, and evaluate kitchen staff.
• Monitor labor costs and scheduling to meet operations.

Skills

Executive leadership

Menu planning

Budgeting

Food safety

Team development

Job description

The Executive Chef is responsible for overseeing all culinary operations within the senior living community. This position ensures the delivery of high-quality, nutritious, and visually appealing meals while maintaining exceptional food safety and sanitation standards. The Executive Chef leads and develops the culinary team, manages food costs, creates seasonal menus, and provides an outstanding dining experience for residents, families, and guests.This position requires flexibility to work holidays, weekends, and special events as needed.Essential Duties and ResponsibilitiesLead daily kitchen operations and supervise culinary staff.Develop, plan, and execute creative, nutritious, and resident-focused menus.Ensure all food is prepared and presented according to established quality standards.Maintain compliance with all federal, state, and local health and sanitation regulations.Manage inventory, purchasing, and food cost controls.Recruit, train, coach, and evaluate kitchen team members.Monitor labor costs and scheduling to meet operational needs.Collaborate with Dining Services leadership to enhance resident satisfaction.Accommodate special diets, allergies, and physician-prescribed meal plans.Ensure safe food handling and proper kitchen sanitation practices.Participate in resident meetings, special events, holiday celebrations, and community functions.Maintain accurate production records and department documentation.Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment.QualificationsMinimum 3 years of Executive Chef experience required.Previous experience in Senior Living, Assisted Living, Independent Living, Skilled Nursing, or Healthcare Dining Services preferred.Strong leadership and team development skills.Knowledge of therapeutic diets and senior nutrition preferred.Proficiency in budgeting, inventory management, and food cost control.Excellent communication and customer service skills.Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while maintaining high standards.ServSafe Manager Certification preferred or required within a designated timeframe.Physical RequirementsAbility to stand, walk, bend, lift, and carry up to 50 pounds.Ability to work in a kitchen environment with exposure to heat, cold, and wet conditions.Ability to work flexible hours as business needs require.ScheduleFull-TimeMust be available to work weekends, holidays, and special eventsFlexible schedule based on operational needsBenefitsHealth, Dental, and Vision InsurancePaid Time Off401(k) with Company Match (if applicable)Professional Development OpportunitiesEmployee Meal ProgramPreferred Candidate ProfileThe ideal candidate is a hands-on leader who is passionate about providing exceptional dining experiences for seniors, possesses strong culinary and leadership skills, demonstrates creativity in menu development, and is committed to fostering a positive dining culture within the community.