Executive Chef Tennessee Pass Cookhouse

Fremont Economic Development Corporation; Leadville (CO); On-site; USD 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Free Season pass for alpine and Nordic ski

Employee discounts and pro-deals at the Nordic Center

Job summary

Fremont Economic Development Corporation seeks skilled back-of-house professionals for Tennessee Pass Cookhouse, a unique fine-dining experience in Colorado. Ideal candidates should possess strong culinary skills, attention to detail, leadership qualities, and a passion for local and seasonal ingredients. The role involves working in a remote kitchen environment with weekend and holiday availability. Perks include a free season pass for skiing and employee discounts at Nordic Center.

Qualifications

• Must be 18+ with a current and valid Drivers License.
• Previous chef, line cook, or professional food preparation experience required.
• Must be able to lift 50lbs.

Responsibilities

• Work effectively as part of a team and as a leader.
• Prepare food for customers in a high-energy environment.

Skills

Food service certification or training

Attention to detail

Customer service skills

Ability to work in a fast-paced environment

Teamwork and leadership skills

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Tools

Point of Sale systems

Job description

Tennessee Pass Cookhouse, Nordic Center and Sleep Yurts is one of Colorado's most unique culinary destinations — a fine-dining, backcountry restaurant nestled one mile into the San Isabel National Forest, accessible only by ski or snowshoe in winter, and connected to our extensive trail system. Just 15 minutes north of the town of Leadville and 40 minutes south of Vail we cater to those that love a culinary adventure in the mountains.

At the Cookhouse, we offer an intimate, multi-course dinner experience inspired by wild game and locally sourced ingredients, complemented by an elevated lunch program, themed summer brunches, and year-round weddings. Our kitchen team operates in a facility thoughtfully designed to support our unique remote setting.

At the Nordic Center, we serve a light café-style menu crafted to fuel both Nordic skiers and Ski Cooper downhill guests. Our free tubing hill provides families with a fun après-ski adventure, while our renowned cross-country trail system attracts skiers from near and far.

In our Yurts, families and friends gather to extend their stay and create lasting memories through a truly off-the-grid hospitality experience.

Qualifications

• Must be 18+ with a current and valid Drivers License
• High School Diploma or GED preferred
• Previous chef, line cook, or professional food preparation experience required
• Food service certification or training is required, if not already certified we will supplement the cost
• Ability to work effectively as part of a team and as a leader
• Strong attention to detail and ability to work well in a fast-paced environment
• Basic knowledge of kitchen equipment and appliances
• Knowledge of dietary restrictions
• Weekend & Holiday availability
• Familiar with operation of Point of Sale systems and cash handling
• Snowmobile and UTV experience preferred but not required
• Excellent work ethic, dependability, customer service & communication skills
• Must be able to lift 50lbs

What We're Looking For

We're seeking skilled, passionate back-of-house professionals who take pride in their craft and thrive in a high-energy, non-traditional environment. The ideal candidate brings:

• A strong culinary foundation and attention to detail
• A genuine passion for quality, local, and seasonal ingredients
• The ability to communicate and collaborate in a close-knit team
• A hardworking, self-motivated attitude and high personal standards
• Comfort working in a unique, remote kitchen environment

Why Work Here

Few kitchens can offer what we do — a stunning mountain setting, a creative menu rooted in the land around us, and a team that genuinely loves what they do. If you're looking for a role that's as memorable as it is rewarding, Tennessee Pass Cookhouse and Nordic Center is it.

• Free Season pass for alpine and Nordic ski
• Employee discounts and pro-deals at the Nordic Center

Working Conditions

This position is based inside and outside, and is occasionally exposed to temperature extremes, sun and wind exposure, inclement weather (rain, snow, ice) and high altitudes (10,500+ feet).

Physical Requirements

Must be able to walk on even/uneven/slippery terrain, climb/descend even/uneven/slippery terrain, climb/descend stairs and ladders, stand and/or sit for long periods of time, bend, stoop, reach, push, pull, lift objects which may be heavy, etc.

• Night Shift (Required)
• Day Shift (Required)

Disclaimer: The duties and responsibilities described above are not a comprehensive list and additional tasks may be assigned to the employee, time to time; the scope of the job may change as necessitated by business demands.