Head Chef and Kitchen Manager

Wallowa Lake Lodge is actively seeking a Head Chef and Kitchen Manager to lead our culinary team for our Summer 2026 season. This unique leadership position requires a strong foundation in food service, kitchen operations, and menu development. The ideal applicant will have a natural passion for the culinary arts, excellent organizational and communication skills, and dedication to deliver exceptional dining experiences for our lodging guests and the general public. As Head Chef and Kitchen Manager, you will oversee daily evening kitchen activities, mandate that food safety and professional standards are met, and work to inspire your team to achieve culinary excellence in a fast-paced, yet enriching service environment.
Responsibilities
● Lead and manage the Wallowa Lake Lodge front and back of house team including line cooks, kitchen utility workers, and waitstaff
● Oversee menu planning and implementation
● Actively supervise food preparation and cooking processes to ensure high standards of quality and safety
● Mandate compliance with food safety regulations and proper food handling techniques
● Coordinate meal services for various settings, such as evening dining fare and catering events
● Properly catalogue and maintain kitchen inventory levels while ordering supplies as needed
● Proactively train staff on culinary techniques, knife skills, and food safety protocols
● Consistently assess kitchen cleanliness and sanitation practices and keep high health standards in the kitchen and dining environments
● Collaborate with management on menu development, special dietary requirements for guests, and special events planning
Experience
● Strong background experience in food preparation, cooking, and food service operations
● Trained knowledge of food safety protocols, proper food handling procedures, and staff training methodologies
● Previous restaurant, hospitality, or catering experience is preferred
● Culinary training in meal preparation, knife handling, and food industry best practices
● Familiarity with back and front of house management practices, including inventory control and staff supervision
Wallowa Lake Lodge is excited to offer the opportunity for a passionate culinary professional to lead a talented team in crafting worthwhile dining experiences for our Summer 2026 season in the beautiful Wallowa Mountains at a historic lodging venue. The ideal candidate will demonstrate natural leadership qualities, technical expertise, and a commitment to excellence in the culinary arts.