Chef de Cuisine

Overview

At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, we don’t just create vacations—we craft unforgettable experiences. Home to America’s Largest Indoor Waterparks, our African-inspired resorts offer world-class dining, luxurious spas, thrilling entertainment, and cutting-edge convention centers that redefine hospitality.

But we’re more than a resort. As a family-owned company, our Promise is simple:
Lead with Love
. This means caring deeply for our guests, associates, and communities—treating people like family, giving back generously, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued.

Through our partnership with charity: water, we’re also committed to bringing clean water to one million people in Africa.

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is making waves in the Mid-Atlantic with our newest location in Spotsylvania, Virginia, expected to open late 2026. Our fifth resort will feature over 175,000 square feet of indoor waterpark fun, 900 family-friendly suites, and a massive convention center.

At our newest resort destination in Virginia, we’re not just opening a property—we’re creating an experience. We’re seeking a dynamic, hands-on Chef de Cuisine to play a key leadership role in launching and elevating our culinary program from day one. This is a rare opportunity to help shape the culture, standards, and guest experience of a brand-new resort.

As a leader in a new opening environment, the Chef de Cuisine will be instrumental in hiring, training, menu execution, and establishing best practices that set the tone for long-term success. This role leads with love by fostering a culture of respect, care, and accountability—developing people as passionately as menus, supporting team members through mentorship and feedback, and creating an environment where pride, collaboration, and excellence can thrive.

A full list of our concepts, each needing a Chef de Cuisine, include:

• Double Cut Steak House – Our signature steakhouse serving bold flavors.
• B-LUX Grill & Bar – Deliciously unique burgers and shakes handcrafted from scratch.
• Sortino’s Italian Kitchen – A modern elevated Italian restaurant and bar.
• Cinco Niños - A friendly Mexican outlet and tequila bar featuring sizzle and classic flavors

These positions are scheduled to begin in mid-August.

We’re taking our time to find the right chef—a visionary who leads with both creativity and humility. This process will include discovery calls, casual conversations, and in-person interviews as we get closer to launch.

• Execute a menu that has been designed for you, from Kalahari corporate.
• Overseeing kitchen operations and ensuring cleanliness, consistency, and efficiency.
• Leading, training, and mentoring culinary staff, from prep cooks to sous chefs.
• Managing food costs, inventory, and vendor relationships.
• Executing memorable tableside presentations like Prime Rib Carving and Baked Alaska.
• Collaborating with leadership to ensure a seamless front-and-back-of-house experience.

• At least 5 years of culinary leadership experience, preferably in a fine dining, steakhouse, or supper club environment.
• Passion for both traditional Midwestern flavors and modern culinary techniques.
• Ability to work flexible shifts, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Experience in cost control, purchasing, and kitchen labor management.
• Strong communication and leadership skills, and a genuine joy for creating exceptional guest experiences.

Our team enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Career growth opportunities with promotion from within
• 401(k) matching, paid time off, and holiday compensation
• Health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time associates
• Employee appreciation events, discounts, and perks at all resorts
• Education assistance programs to help advance your career

At Kalahari, we believe the best leaders Lead with Love
—because love builds trust, inspires growth, and creates experiences that last a lifetime. That’s why we’re proud to be recognized by Forbes as one of America’s Best Midsize Employers, America’s Best Employers for Women, and by USA TODAY as the #1 Best Indoor Water Park.

Here, careers thrive, innovation is encouraged, and every day brings new opportunities to create meaningful moments. Whether you’re delivering guest service, crafting memorable meals, or leading a team, your work makes a real impact.

Locations: Wisconsin Dells, WI | Sandusky, OH | Pocono Manor, PA | Round Rock, TX | Spotsylvania County, VA

Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an Equal Opportunity Employer.