Executive Chef / Culinary Director

We are seeking an experienced and dynamic Executive Chef / Culinary Director to lead our culinary team in delivering exceptional dining experiences. This full-time leadership role requires a strategic mindset, extensive culinary expertise, and proven management skills to oversee all aspects of food preparation, menu development, and kitchen operations. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in fine dining, catering, and restaurant management, with a focus on maintaining high standards of food safety, quality, and service excellence.

About Us

As a premier provider of assisted living and memory care communities across the Western United States, were passionate about creating vibrant, supportive environments where residents can thrive.

"Our supreme goal is to do and be the best in all we undertake, and to provide a Stellar life for our residents, their families and our employees." - Evrett Benton, CEO

If you are looking for a company and team that understands the value of people, then check us out!

Stellar Senior Living, a privately-owned family company, is a premier assisted living and memory care provider in the Western United States. Founded in 2012 we have experienced consistent growth adding senior living communities to our family each year. We continue to grow and are looking for top talent to join our team and continue the journey with us.

Why You'll Love Working Here

• Competitive Pay: Market-leading pay of $81000 per year to $91000 per year DOE

• Benefits: Full-time employees are eligible for medical, dental, and vision insurance. On top of that, Stellar also offers a generous Paid Time Off policy, 401(k) with company matching, holiday pay, and more.

• Career Growth: We're a growing company with opportunities for advancement and company-sponsored training. Tuition reimbursement and ongoing learning opportunities are available.

• Work Perks: Depending on role and community you may receive free meals on shift, reduced-cost meals, on-demand pay (access to your wages as you earn them.), and a supporting, team-driven environment

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute innovative menus that align with the brands vision and customer preferences.
• Oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficient workflow and adherence to safety and sanitation standards.
• Manage inventory control, food production, and cost management to optimize profitability.
• Lead, supervise, and motivate culinary staff, fostering a positive team environment focused on excellence and continuous improvement.
• Plan and coordinate catering events, banquets, and special functions with attention to detail and client specifications.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety regulations and maintain high standards of food handling and hygiene.
• Collaborate with management on staffing schedules, shift management, and training programs.
• Monitor quality control throughout the food preparation process to ensure consistency in taste, presentation, and portion sizes.
• Manage the dietary department when applicable, ensuring menu options meet nutritional guidelines and dietary restrictions.
• Maintain excellent communication with front-of-house teams to ensure seamless service delivery.

Qualifications

Education

• Associate's degree from an accredited college or university is preferred

Experience

• Minimum of 5 years of experience as an Executive or Assistant Executive Chef (required)

Language

• Advanced English

Skills

• Extensive culinary experience with a strong background in fine dining, catering, or restaurant environments.
• Proven supervising experience with team management skills that inspire staff performance.
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards and sanitation practices.
• Expertise in menu planning, food production, inventory management, and cost control.
• Experience in banquet operations, event catering, and shift management.
• Leadership qualities with the ability to manage the main restaurant and bistro.
• Excellent organizational skills with attention to detail in kitchen management and food handling procedures.
• Ability to lead a diverse team while maintaining high standards of quality and service excellence.
• Knowledge of the food industry trends including culinary innovation and hospitality best practices.
• Effective communication skills for collaboration across departments including food service management. This role offers an exciting opportunity for a passionate culinary professional to shape the culinary direction of our establishment while leading a talented team dedicated to delivering memorable dining experiences.

Certifications

• Must obtain and maintain a valid Washington State Food Worker Card or ServSafe certification.

• Must posses and provide proof of a current MAST certification and Food Handler's Permit

Join Us

If you're ready to bring your skills and compassion to a mission-driver organization where residents and employees matter, we invite you to apply and grow your career with Stellar Senior Living

We are an equal opportunity employer and prohibit discrimination/harassment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws.

As part of Stellar Senior Livings continued efforts to maintain a safe environment for all employees, residents, families, and visitors, Stellar strongly encourages its employees to receive an FDA-approved COVID-19 vaccination, as well as any subsequent booster doses, as recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). To facilitate and further encourage COVID-19 vaccinations, Stellar periodically organizes onsite vaccination clinics at its various locations. Stellar employees are not required to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 as a condition of employment.