Private Executive Chef (2026)

Join a prestigious private household located in Atherton, CA, as a Private Executive Chef and bring your culinary passion to life in an exclusive, high-end environment. Atherton is renowned for its luxurious residences and elite community, offering an exceptional platform for chefs seeking to demonstrate their artistry and leadership in private culinary services. This household values the creation of memorable dining experiences while emphasizing healthy, customized meals and creative menus to celebrate special occasions such as holidays and family milestones.

This full-time, non-exempt hourly position requires a commitment of 40 hours per week, with the flexibility to work five 8-hour days or four 10-hour days, accommodating family needs. Early starts are essential for breakfast preparation, and weekend availability is required, making this a role suited for someone who appreciates a stable schedule but understands the need for adaptability. The compensation is highly competitive, ranging from $50 to $82 per hour depending on experience, complemented by a discretionary bonus of up to 20 percent. Additional benefits include health insurance, paid time off covering vacation, sick leave, and personal days, as well as paid meal breaks and regular performance reviews that open doors to advancement opportunities.

As the Private Executive Chef, you will lead all aspects of the kitchen’s operations, from menu creation to managing everyday meal preparations. Creativity is encouraged as you design surprise menus that incorporate fresh, locally sourced ingredients, producing vibrant, healthy dishes tailored to the family’s unique preferences and dietary needs, including school lunches for children. Planning ahead is an essential part of the role, with a requirement to provide four-week menu cycles that reflect seasonal availability and diversity.

Operational excellence is paramount, as you will oversee budgeting, ordering groceries, and inventory management to ensure seamless kitchen functionality. The maintenance of kitchen cleanliness and organization aligns with the highest standards of health, hygiene, and safety, following California sanitation regulations and hosting Food ServeSafe certification compliance. Collaboration with other household staff and establishing strong vendor relationships are critical to providing an exceptional dining experience.

The ideal candidate brings over seven years of experience, preferably within Michelin-rated or fine dining establishments and private families, supported by formal culinary education. Proficiency in diverse culinary styles with a bonus for Asian fusion expertise is valued. Flexibility, confidentiality, professionalism, and excellent communication skills are essential, as is comfort with technology such as iPhone, MacBook, and Google Suite. Physical capability to perform kitchen tasks, including lifting up to 40 pounds and excellent sensory acuity for flavors and aromas, is required.

This role represents an extraordinary opportunity for a motivated chef to not only thrive in a prestigious environment but also advance professionally through continuous learning and contributory leadership. The private household fosters a culture founded on principles such as dedication, accountability, conscientiousness, and resilience, supporting a respectful and autonomous work style that values ongoing improvement and excellence. If you are passionate about culinary innovation in a supportive, luxurious setting, this position offers both the creative freedom and the stability to build a rewarding career.