Chief Steward - The Ben Hotel, Autograph Collection

Why us?

At The Ben, West Palm Beach, every corner tells a story. Inspired by the legendary Byrd “Birdie” Dewey and her famed Ben Trovato Estate, our Autograph Collection hotel blends modern luxury with creativity, sophistication, and a spirit of individuality that feels Exactly Like Nothing Else.

 

Perched along the Intracoastal Waterway in the heart of downtown West Palm Beach, The Ben invites guests to immerse themselves in refined coastal living. Guests gather at Proper Grit, our signature whisky and supper club–inspired restaurant, or ascend to Spruzzo, our rooftop Mediterranean lounge offering sweeping waterfront views. Every space reflects thoughtful design, elevated service, and an atmosphere where hospitality feels both personal and extraordinary.

 

The Ben is stepping into a world where luxury is intentional, style has substance, and service is an art form. This is a place for professionals who take pride in presence, pursue excellence, and thrive in an environment where every detail matters.

 

At The Ben, you don’t simply work in luxury—you help define it.

Job Overview

The Chief Steward is the operational leader responsible for ensuring the stewarding and kitchen support operations run with precision, efficiency, and impeccable cleanliness. Behind every exceptional culinary experience is a disciplined and well-organized stewarding team—and the Chief Steward ensures that every detail of that operation is executed flawlessly.

 

Working closely with the Executive Chef and Food & Beverage leadership, the Chief Steward oversees dish room operations, back-of-house sanitation, equipment management, and inventory control of china, glassware, silverware, and kitchen smallwares. This role requires a hands-on leader who balances operational discipline with team development, ensuring that the culinary environment remains pristine, compliant, and fully equipped to support the hotel’s restaurants, banquets, and special events.

 

Through strong leadership, organization, and attention to detail, the Chief Steward ensures the foundation of every dining experience at The Ben is built on cleanliness, efficiency, and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

Stewarding & Kitchen Operations

• Lead and oversee all stewarding operations including dish room management, night cleaning, back dock sanitation, and receiving areas.
• Ensure a consistent supply of clean china, glassware, silverware, cookware, and service equipment for restaurant and banquet operations.
• Maintain strict sanitation standards in accordance with health department regulations and hotel policies.
• Ensure proper operation, cleaning, and maintenance of dishwashing equipment and machinery.
• Monitor food holding and transport equipment to ensure functionality and cleanliness.
• Conduct regular inspections of stewarding areas to maintain cleanliness and operational readiness.

Inventory & Equipment Management

• Manage and control inventory of china, glassware, silverware, equipment, and smallwares.
• Conduct routine inventory counts and report shortages or losses to appropriate leadership.
• Order and maintain necessary supplies to support daily operations and events.
• Ensure equipment is properly maintained and repaired when needed.

Leadership & Team Development

• Supervise, train, and develop stewarding associates including dishwashers and kitchen support staff.
• Foster a culture of accountability, teamwork, and operational excellence.
• Provide coaching, performance feedback, and training for team members.
• Ensure staff are properly trained in sanitation procedures, chemical handling, safety standards, and equipment usage.
• Serve as a role model for professionalism, integrity, and strong work ethic.

Operational & Financial Oversight

• Manage stewarding labor and operational expenses in alignment with departmental budgets.
• Monitor team productivity and operational efficiency.
• Support planning for banquet events, restaurant service, and large-scale culinary operations.
• Participate in operational meetings with culinary and food & beverage leadership.

Safety, Compliance & Sanitation

• • Ensure compliance with all health, sanitation, and safety regulations.
  • Investigate and report employee accidents or safety incidents.
  • Enforce safe work practices and loss prevention procedures.
  • Maintain sanitation logs, inspections, and compliance documentation.

Qualifications