Private Executive Chef; Atherton, CA

Private Executive Chef (2026) job at Excellence Services, LLC. Atherton, CA.

On-site Position in Atherton, CA.

Full Time (40 hours/week), Non-Exempt/Hourly.

Work Hours:

Five 8-hour days or four 10-hour days, with flexibility based on family needs. Early hours are expected for breakfast preparation, with weekend availability required.

• $50 - $82/hour, DOE. (Non-Exempt/Hourly)
• Discretionary Bonus (Up to 20%)
• Health Insurance
• Paid Time Off:
  Includes vacation days, sick leave, and personal days
• Paid Meal Breaks
• Regular Reviews & Advancement Opportunities

Join a prestigious private household in Atherton, CA, as a Private Executive Chef, where your culinary passion will craft unforgettable dining experiences for an elite family. This role is a unique opportunity for an enthusiastic chef eager to create customized, healthy meals and surprise menus for special occasions like holidays and family milestones. Ideal for a creative professional seeking to lead a residential culinary program with artistic freedom, stability, and the chance to build trusted relationships in a high‑end environment.

• Meal Preparation and Cooking:
  Cook daily meals for the family and guests, tailoring dishes to preferences and dietary needs;
  Design surprise menus for holidays and family milestones using fresh, locally sourced ingredients to create healthy, vibrant dishes;
  Create customized, diverse menus four weeks ahead, considering family preferences, dietary needs, seasonal ingredients, and including school lunches as part of the meal planning.
• Kitchen Management and Operations:
  Oversee kitchen operations from budgeting and sourcing to menu planning, ordering groceries, and managing inventory, ensuring seamless daily meal prep;
  Take charge of kitchen maintenance, regularly inspecting and ensuring all kitchen wares and equipment are in top condition for daily use.
• Health, Hygiene, and Safety:
  Keep the kitchen spotless and organized at all times, cleaning as you go to ensure efficiency and hygiene throughout the day;
  Maintain the highest standards of health, hygiene, and safety in the kitchen, ensuring proper food storage and sanitation at all times.
• Team Collaboration and Communication:
  Collaborate with other household staff to plan and execute seamless meal preparations and events, continuously developing new recipes to keep meals exciting.
• Vendor Relations and Procurement:
  Build and maintain strong relationships with local and regional food suppliers to ensure the freshest ingredients are always available.

• Minimum 7+ years of chef experience, preferably in Michelin‑rated/fine dining establishments and private families, backed by a culinary degree or certificate.
• Proficiency in diverse cuisine styles;
  Asian fusion dishes are a plus.
• Flexible in work schedules, including weekends and holiday shifts.
• Capable of maintaining confidentiality and accommodating a limited range of dietary preferences for Principals.
• Comfortable with technology, including iPhone, Mac Book, and Google Suite.
• Reliable, deadline‑oriented, and able to work well as part of a residence team.
• Exceptional professional service with a respectful communication style, alongside understanding boundaries and maintaining discretion.
• Capable of performing a range of physical activities in the kitchen, including lifting up to 40 lbs and distinguishing flavors and aromas accurately.
• Good spatial awareness and ability to move efficiently in the workplace, handling various kitchen tasks with care and consideration.
• Knowledge of California sanitation regulations and Food Serv Safe certification.
• US work authorization without visa sponsorship, and the ability to pass extensive background checks.
• Possession of a valid driver's license and reliable transportation.
• Ready for pre‑employment health screenings, including physical, psychological exams, and drug tests; annual flu vaccination required.

• Principals’ First:
  Always put our principals’ needs and interests first.
• Learn from mistakes:
  Admit mistakes upfront. Learns and grows from mistakes.
• Conscientious:
  Attention to detail. Finishes duties mindfully, effectively, and promptly.
• Dedicatio…