Head Chef

Job DetailsJob Location: Grand Haven - Palm Coast, FL 321371493Position Type: Full TimeSalary Range: $45,000.00 - $50,000.00 SalaryJob Shift: Flexible Company Overview: Fueling Growth, Empowering People

With over 30 years in the industry, Vesta manages 800+ community contracts and serves Florida’s top communities. Our team of 1,000+ associates is proud to be recognized as one of Florida’s Top Workplaces.

Our People

Our associates are our greatest asset. We hire trusted individuals and empower their growth through training, coaching, and feedback, ensuring they have the tools to succeed.

Collaboration and Culture

We thrive on a collaborative culture where respect and recognition drive engagement, creating an environment where all team member’s contributions are valued.

Growth, Standards, and Client Focus

We focus on continuous growth and uphold the highest standards of professionalism and integrity, delivering exceptional service to our clients who entrust us with their communities.

Head Chef Job Description

Hours: Full Time (30+ hours per week)

FLSA Status: Exempt (Salary)

The Head Chef is responsible for overseeing all culinary operations within the community’s food and beverage program. This leadership role is accountable for menu development, food preparation, kitchen operations, inventory management, staff supervision, and ensuring exceptional dining experiences for residents, guests, and special events. The Head Chef maintains high standards of food quality, presentation, sanitation, and customer service while supporting the overall goals and vision of the community.

RESPONSIBLITIES AND DUTIES:

Plan, prepare, and oversee the production of high-quality meals and menu offerings.
Develop seasonal menus, daily specials, and event-specific dining options.
Ensure consistency in food quality, presentation, portion control, and taste.
Monitor food preparation and cooking techniques to maintain culinary standards.
Evaluate and incorporate resident feedback to enhance dining experiences.
Recruit, train, supervise, schedule, and evaluate kitchen personnel.
Foster a positive and collaborative team environment.
Delegate responsibilities and ensure efficient workflow within the kitchen.
Provide coaching, performance feedback, and ongoing staff development.
Ensure appropriate staffing levels are maintained for daily operations and special events.
Maintain compliance with all local, state, and federal health regulations.
Ensure adherence to food handling, sanitation, and workplace safety standards.
Conduct regular inspections of kitchen facilities, equipment, and food storage areas.
Maintain accurate food safety and temperature logs.
Manage food and supply inventory levels to minimize waste and control costs.
Order food, beverages, and kitchen supplies from approved vendors.
Monitor kitchen expenses and operate within established budgets.
Track food costs, labor costs, and inventory usage to maximize operational efficiency.
Collaborate with community management and lifestyle teams to support resident events and special functions.
Design menus and coordinate food service for banquets, holidays, private events, and community gatherings.
Serve as a culinary ambassador for the community by creating memorable dining experiences.
Ensure kitchen equipment is properly maintained and functioning.
Report repair and maintenance needs promptly.
Maintain a clean, organized, and professional kitchen environment.

REQUIRED EXPEREINCE AND QUALIFICATIONS:

High school diploma or equivalent required.
Culinary degree or formal culinary training preferred.
Minimum of 5 years of culinary experience, including leadership or supervisory experience.
Previous experience in hospitality, country club, restaurant, resort, senior living, or community association environments preferred.
Valid food safety certification or ability to obtain certification upon hire.

PHYSICAL DEMANDS AND WORK ENVIROMENT:

Primarily works in a commercial kitchen and food service environment.
Fast-paced setting with frequent interaction with residents, guests, vendors, and staff.
May require evenings, weekends, holidays, and special event coverage.
Exposure to kitchen equipment, heat, steam, and varying temperatures.
Ability to stand and walk for extended periods.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds.
Ability to bend, stoop, reach, and perform repetitive motions.
Ability to work in a hot kitchen environment for extended periods

BENEFITS:

We’re proud to offer a well-rounded, people-first benefits program designed to support you and your family — even your pets! From comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage to life insurance, disability protection, and 401(k) retirement plans, we’ve got you covered at every stage of life.

We also go beyond the basics with unique perks like a Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Account (FSA), and a Pet Discount Plan to help yo