Private Chef
Job Title: Private Chef
Schedule: Full-Time, Mon-Fri 6:30am-3:30pm
Location: Charleston, South Carolina (Live Out) + Travel (including a cumulative 4-5 months a year in California and a couple months a year living on a working biodynamic farm in SC)
Reports to: Principal or Estate Manager
Position Overview:
A family of three is seeking a highly skilled private chef to create seasonal, organic, farm-table meals in alignment with their culinary philosophy. The family values simple yet refined preparations that highlight high-quality, locally sourced ingredients.
The primary residence is in Downtown Charleston, SC and the second home is located in West Sonoma County, California. There are also additional residences under construction, including a 200-acre Biodynamic Farm in South Carolina. The chef must be willing to travel with the family, typically spending 4-5 months per year in California in about six week stretches three times a year.
The ideal candidate will be an experienced private chef or an executive chef transitioning into private service, with a strong passion for organic, farm-driven cuisine. The family is influenced by the slow food movement and particularly enjoys Californian, Italian, Mediterranean, Vietnamese, and healthy American comfort foods. Favorite chefs include Alice Waters, Thomas Keller, and Massimo Bottura.
Dietary Considerations: The household primarily consumes organic meats, fish, vegetables, and fruit, with some grains, like homemade pasta. One family member has gluten and dairy allergies, so familiarity with allergy-conscious cooking is essential.
Private Chef Responsibilities:
Daily Cooking & Meal Planning:
- Prepare all meals, snacks, and beverages daily for the family and occasional guests.
- Prep some meals/snacks/pantry items to ensure the fridge is stocked when the chef is off.
- Develop weekly menus that align with the family’s dietary preferences.
- Plate meals, set and bus the table, and manage all cleanup from prior meals.
Ingredient Sourcing & Kitchen Management:
- Grocery shop as needed and source the highest-quality organic ingredients, prioritizing local, biodynamic, and seasonal produce.
- Work with farm suppliers, specialty markets, and trusted purveyors.
- Maintain kitchen cleanliness, organization, and food storage best practices.
Additional Duties:
- Manage special dietary requests and adapt meals as needed.
- Provide discreet, professional service while maintaining a welcoming dining atmosphere.
- Follow all health and safety protocols to maintain a pristine kitchen environment and ensure food safety.
Qualifications & Requirements:
Experience:
- Private chef experience in a high-net-worth residence OR executive chef experience in a fine dining or farm-to-table restaurant transitioning into private service.
- Familiarity with gluten-free and dairy-free cooking is essential.
Culinary Expertise:
- Strong knowledge of Californian, French, Italian, and Mediterranean cuisines.
- Ability to highlight seasonal ingredients in an elegant, yet simple way.
Personal Attributes:
- Highly organized, proactive, and independent—can run a kitchen without supervision.
- Exceptional attention to detail—understands proper care of high-end kitchen tools and materials.
- Professional, discreet, and service-oriented—must sign a Non-Disclosure Agreement (NDA).
Other Requirements:
- Culinary school degree or equivalent professional experience.
- Valid driver’s license and clean driving record.
- Willingness to travel with the family for extended stays.
Compensation & Benefits:
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Hourly Pay Range: $45hr-$55/hr
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Travel Expenses Covered when traveling with the family.
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Access to high-quality ingredients and an opportunity to shape a biodynamic kitchen.
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Long-term opportunity with a family that values quality, consistency, and culinary excellence.