Executive Chef

Crystal Mountain is Washington's largest ski resort, recognized as the Pacific Northwest's premier destination for skiing, snowboarding, and summer outdoor adventures. Nestled within the breathtaking National Forest and close to the iconic Mount Rainier, Crystal Mountain offers a unique mountain experience that blends world-class terrain with natural beauty. As part of Alterra Mountain Company, a leading group that hosts some of the most aspirational adventure brands in the world, Crystal Mountain carries a legacy of delivering best-in-class service, adventure, and a close-knit community atmosphere grounded in passion for the outdoors and guest experience. The resort is a year-round operation that caters to a diverse array of visitors through all seasons, boasting a robust calendar of events and a vibrant culture of camaraderie among employees who share a love for mountain life and adventure.

The Executive Chef role at Crystal Mountain represents an exceptional opportunity to lead culinary operations at this iconic resort. Positioned within the Food & Beverage business unit and reporting directly to the Director of Food & Beverage, the Executive Chef holds a senior leadership role guiding multiple culinary teams across various year-round and seasonal dining venues. This position is fundamental in crafting memorable dining experiences that match the resort's high standards of excellence and innovative spirit. Beyond taste and presentation, the Executive Chef is responsible for ensuring operational excellence through effective management of food quality, safety compliance, labor and cost controls, and inventory management. The role requires a dynamic culinary leader who can mentor and develop a team of culinary professionals while strategically steering menu development, specialty events, and seasonal offerings in alignment with the resort’s vision and guest expectations.

The Executive Chef at Crystal Mountain not only influences kitchen operations but also plays a critical role in creating a collaborative, empowered, and purpose-driven culture within the culinary department. This leadership position offers a competitive salary range from $95,000 to $115,000 annually plus bonus eligibility, reflecting the importance of this role in the broader context of guest service excellence and business success. Employees at Crystal Mountain benefit from remarkable perks including free season passes to Alterra resorts for themselves and family, generous discounts on ski and snowboard gear and lessons, employee housing for eligible staff, accrued paid time off, health insurance, and a 401K plan with immediate vesting match. This comprehensive benefits package supports a balanced work and play lifestyle, reinforcing Crystal Mountain’s commitment to its team's well-being and growth.

In this role, the Executive Chef will be deeply engaged in all facets of culinary operations—from hands-on leadership in kitchen performance and quality control to strategic vendor relations and cost management. They will oversee kitchen cleanliness standards and compliance with local and corporate food safety policies, lead culinary talent development, and foster an environment that encourages continuous learning and excellence. The successful candidate will need strong organizational skills, a solution-oriented approach to challenges, and proven experience managing large professional kitchen teams in high-volume, fast-paced environments. With a passion for both culinary arts and mountain culture, the Executive Chef will help shape the future of mountain adventure dining experiences at Crystal Mountain while embracing and upholding the resort’s core values of empowerment, authenticity, collaboration, and purpose.