Position: Executive Chef – Catering & Events
About: Wooden Paddle is seeking an Executive Catering Chef to lead the culinary operations of their high-volume catering services. The ideal candidate will work closely with Chef Patrick Cassata to innovate and create conversation-sparking catering menus, uphold food and beverage quality standards, manage profitability, and ensure efficient kitchen logistics, all while embracing a dynamic work environment.
Requirements: At least 7 years of professional kitchen experience; At least 3 years in an Executive Chef, or equivalent, role, preferably for high-volume catering operations; A Bachelor’s degree in the Culinary Arts, or equivalent work experience; Expert knife skills and mastery of diverse culinary techniques (grilling, roasting, braising, sautéing, baking, etc.); Extensive culinary knowledge, including seasonal ingredient expertise, flavor pairing, and Michelin-level presentation techniques; Previous experience with wood-fired cooking, a major plus!; Familiarity with the challenges of off-site catering; Must be able to (or be willing to learn to!) drive large vehicles – including trailers, box trucks, and extended vans; Must have a current ServSafe Manager Certification; Must be at least 21 years old; Must have open availability – including nights, weekends, and holidays; Physically able to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 pounds, and keep up with the pace of a busy catering kitchen; Must have the ability to regularly work 50-ish hours per week; Must have a valid driver’s license and sole access to a personal vehicle; Familiarity with 7Shifts, Total Party Planner, and Margin Edge, a major plus!
Benefits: PPO medical, dental, and vision Insurance with 50% company contribution, 401K retirement savings plan with 3% company match, 2 weeks of paid time off and 5 sick days, Flexible days off, typically back-to-back, A generous, never-expires, $250 monthly food and drink allowance, A 50% employee discount on food while working, A 20% employee discount on food and drinks anytime not working, for the employee and their whole table, Free Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner boxes for the employee and their family, Attendance at fun, ‘State of the Company’ company events twice a year, Access to company-paid business coaching and resources
