Executive Chef: Lead Culinary Team & Menu Innovation

Wequassett; Portland (ME); On-site; USD 90,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Dedicated employee parking

Employer-subsidized medical, dental, &

Life insurance

Disability insurance options

Health & Wellness benefits

Parental leave

401k match

Discounted hotel rates

Food & beverage discounts

Tuition reimbursement

Career growth opportunities

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

The Press Hotel in Portland, ME is seeking an Executive Chef to lead the culinary department and drive the guest experience through creative menus and high standards.

You will oversee two Sous Chefs and a team of hospitality staff, manage hiring, scheduling, training, and retention, and collaborate with General Manager and restaurant managers on operating decisions. A culinary degree is preferred, with a minimum of 3 years in executive kitchen leadership, and strong financial acumen.

Qualifications

• Culinary degree preferred but not required.
• Minimum 3 years’ experience as an Executive Chef in hotel/restaurant with similar dining.
• Strong managerial experience with operations, logistics, guest service, and F&B.
• Strong knowledge of financials including budgeting, forecasting, and labor controls.
• Solid culinary knowledge and knife skills; ability to lead busy kitchens.
• Willingness to work flexible hours including weekends.

Responsibilities

• Oversee two Sous Chefs and a hospitality team; hire, schedule, coach, and retain staff.
• Plan, direct, and supervise food preparation and cooking activities.
• Develop recipes, portion specs, and standard prep procedures.
• Ensure compliance with health regulations, safety standards, and policies.
• Manage purchasing, budgeting, and cost controls for all menu items.
• Collaborate with GM and restaurant managers on operations and financial decisions.

Skills

Word/Excel/Outlook proficiency

Math for recipes

Exceptional communication

Relationship building

Decision making under pressure

Education

Culinary degree preferred

Job description

The Press Hotel in Portland, ME is seeking an Executive Chef to lead the culinary department and drive the guest experience through creative menus and high standards.

You will oversee two Sous Chefs and a team of hospitality staff, manage hiring, scheduling, training, and retention, and collaborate with General Manager and restaurant managers on operating decisions. A culinary degree is preferred, with a minimum of 3 years in executive kitchen leadership, and strong financial acumen.