Executive Catering Chef

George Washington's Mount Vernon is a historic estate and museum dedicated to preserving and presenting the legacy of George Washington, the first President of the United States. This renowned site serves as a cultural beacon, attracting visitors from around the world who come to experience both the rich history and the natural beauty of the estate. The mission of Mount Vernon is not only to offer an engaging historical experience but also to ensure that every visitor enjoys exceptional service and hospitality. As a prominent institution, Mount Vernon strives to foster an inclusive and high-quality environment for both its visitors and employees, promoting diversity, equity, and excellence across all departments.

The role of Executive Catering Chef at Mount Vernon is a unique opportunity to lead and expand the catering and banquet services within this historic setting. Reporting to the Food and Beverage Director, the Executive Catering Chef will be responsible for all aspects of food quality and presentation in a busy, split kitchen environment shared with the restaurant chef and line staff. This position offers a competitive starting salary of $70,000 per year and requires a dynamic leader dedicated to culinary excellence and operational efficiency.

This role demands expertise in managing costing, scheduling, and time management to achieve budget goals and maintain high food standards. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with suppliers to optimize purchasing processes and develop effective inventory controls that reduce waste and adapt to fluctuating market conditions. Menu development will focus on blending contemporary culinary trends with historically accurate flavors, creating a farm-to-table experience that connects guests to the 18th century.

The Executive Catering Chef is also charged with establishing strict food preparation and presentation guidelines, maintaining sanitation and health code compliance across all kitchen areas, and fostering the professional growth of kitchen personnel by implementing comprehensive training schedules and cross-station learning opportunities. This position requires close cooperation with other Mount Vernon departments to ensure a seamless and memorable guest experience that aligns with the estate’s Food and Beverage Mission Statement: "A culinary experience George Washington would be proud of."

Key responsibilities include assisting with food preparation, innovating new culinary techniques, and ensuring the highest level of customer satisfaction through attentive service. Knowledge of customer service principles, including needs assessment and quality evaluation, is essential. The role is fast-paced and requires strong organizational skills, flexibility, and the ability to manage stressful situations effectively. Candidates must be comfortable working weekends, evenings, and holidays, as well as communicating primarily in English, with Spanish proficiency being a desirable asset.

Applicants should be proficient in commonly used software tools such as Word, Excel, POS systems, email, and HRIS/timekeeping platforms, as these technologies are integral to daily operations. The Executive Catering Chef role at George Washington's Mount Vernon offers a fulfilling career path for culinary professionals passionate about history, hospitality, and culinary arts, providing the right candidate with ample opportunities for growth, leadership, and making a meaningful impact within an esteemed cultural institution.