Executive Chef - Senior Living, Creative Menus & Growth

Discovery Senior Living; Des Plaines (IL); On-site; USD 75,000 - 95,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive wages

Early wage access before payday

Flexible scheduling (full/part-time)

Paid time off and holidays

Comprehensive benefits package

401(k) with employer match

Paid training

Growth opportunities

Uniforms provided

Employee Assistance Program

Job summary

Discovery Senior Living in Des Plaines, IL is seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead culinary operations in a senior living community. You will oversee menu planning, food preparation, purchasing, and recipe development, ensuring quality and safety standards while meeting budget goals.

This full-time role requires strong leadership, staff training, and collaboration with the Hospitality Manager and Executive Director to deliver exceptional dining experiences for residents and families.

Qualifications

• Excellent written and verbal communication with residents and staff.
• Ability to manage monthly budgets for F&B.
• Proven leadership of culinary teams in senior living or hospitality.
• Strong knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards.
• Ability to plan menus and seasonal offerings.

Responsibilities

• Plan, prepare, and execute events and special meals within budget.
• Develop menus and recipes using high-quality ingredients.
• Monitor monthly and annual B&F budgets and inventory.
• Review menus for seasonal ingredients and cost changes.
• Supervise culinary and back-of-house staff, including hiring and reviews.
• Collaborate with leadership to maintain resident satisfaction and health scores.
• Ensure dietary needs and safety policies are followed.

Skills

Effective communication

Team leadership

Budget management

Menu planning

Food safety & sanitation

Staff training & development

Tools

Microsoft Windows (Word & Excel)

Email & Internet usage

Job description

Discovery Senior Living in Des Plaines, IL is seeking an experienced Executive Chef to lead culinary operations in a senior living community. You will oversee menu planning, food preparation, purchasing, and recipe development, ensuring quality and safety standards while meeting budget goals.

This full-time role requires strong leadership, staff training, and collaboration with the Hospitality Manager and Executive Director to deliver exceptional dining experiences for residents and families.