Lead Chef - Senior Living Kitchen & Dining

Atria Senior Living, Inc.; Palm Desert (CA); On-site; USD 23,000 - 28,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid holidays and PTO

Annual anniversary rewards (Full Time)

Annual Scores Reward (Full Time)

Annual Scores Reward (Full Time)

Health, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance

401(k) employer match

Tuition reimbursement (U.S Based)

Job summary

Atria Senior Living, Inc. is seeking a lead cook to supervise daily kitchen operations in our Palm Desert community. You will oversee meal preparation, ensure quality and presentation, and maintain high sanitation standards.

This role requires 3–5 years of lead cook experience in hospitality or healthcare, with a valid food handlers permit. You will work closely with the Culinary Services Director to deliver a restaurant-style dining experience for residents.

Qualifications

• High School Diploma or GED is required.
• Culinary training preferred.
• 3–5 years experience as a lead cook or chef in hospitality or healthcare.
• Food handlers permit as required by state law.
• Able to read and follow recipes, production guides, cleaning schedules and logs.
• Knowledge of food handling, preparation, cooking and service.

Responsibilities

• Supervise daily kitchen operations including meal prep, purchasing, cost control, sanitation, safety, and staff training.
• Prepare and cook food in the community and ensure meals meet Atria standards.
• Provide high level customer service and promote restaurant-style dining.
• Collaborate with Culinary Services Director/Executive Director to keep residents satisfied with food and dining programs.
• Coach and develop kitchen staff; foster teamwork.
• Assist with planning, preparation and execution of dining enhancement programs.
• Ensure proper food receiving, storage, temperature controls, and sanitation.

Skills

Culinary skills

Reading recipes

Food handling knowledge

Education

High School Diploma or GED

Job description

Atria Senior Living, Inc. is seeking a lead cook to supervise daily kitchen operations in our Palm Desert community. You will oversee meal preparation, ensure quality and presentation, and maintain high sanitation standards.

This role requires 3–5 years of lead cook experience in hospitality or healthcare, with a valid food handlers permit. You will work closely with the Culinary Services Director to deliver a restaurant-style dining experience for residents.