Executive Chef South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Full Time • South Coast Winery Resort & Spa
Benefits:
- 401(k)
- 401(k) matching
- Company parties
- Competitive salary
- Dental insurance
- Employee discounts
- Flexible schedule
- Free uniforms
- Health insurance
- Opportunity for advancement
- Paid time off
- Parental leave
- Training & development
- Tuition assistance
- Vision insurance
- Wellness resources
South Coast Winery Resort & Spa is seeking an accomplished Executive Chef to lead the culinary vision across our award-winning resort. This is a key leadership role responsible for driving culinary excellence, innovation, and operational performance while delivering exceptional guest experiences aligned with our winery and resort brand.
Position Summary
The Executive Chef will oversee all culinary operations, including fine dining restaurants, banquets and events, in-room dining, and seasonal outlets. The ideal candidate is a hands-on leader with a passion for seasonal, locally inspired cuisine, strong financial acumen, and proven experience in a luxury resort or winery setting.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide strategic leadership and direction for all culinary operations across the resort
- Develop and execute innovative, wine-forward menus that align with South Coast Winery’s brand and culinary standards
- Ensure consistent quality, presentation, and flavor across all outlets and events
- Lead, mentor, and develop kitchen leadership teams and culinary staff
- Oversee food cost controls, labor management, inventory, and budgeting to meet financial objectives
- Collaborate with Food & Beverage leadership, Events, and Sales teams to execute weddings, banquets, and special events
- Maintain all health, safety, and sanitation standards in compliance with local, state, and federal regulations
- Foster a culture of excellence, teamwork, and continuous improvement
- Source high-quality ingredients, emphasizing seasonal, local, and sustainable products
Qualifications
- Minimum of 7–10 years of progressive culinary leadership experience, including Executive Chef experience
- Prior experience in a luxury resort, winery, or high-volume banquet environment strongly preferred
- Strong knowledge of wine-pairing and wine-centric menu development
- Proven ability to manage food and labor costs while maintaining high culinary standards
- Exceptional leadership, communication, and organizational skills
- Culinary degree or equivalent professional training preferred
- Current food safety certification (or ability to obtain)
Compensation: $90,000.00 - $105,000.00 per year
Established in 2011, Carter Hospitality Group, LLC. is a family-owned hospitality company with four hotels and resorts as well as three wineries across the United States. Based in Orange County, California, the company manages and owns a portfolio of luxury properties including South Coast Winery Resort & Spa, Temecula, California; Carter Estate Winery and Resort, Temecula California; and Carter Creek Winery Resort & Spa, Texas Hill Country. Carter Hospitality Group additionally serves as the owner-franchisee for Red Lion Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista South, Orlando Florida.
Purpose
Enriching lives by crafting exceptional environments and experiences.
Niche
We design, build and care for unique settings where communities thrive and memorable experiences come to life.
We are an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.
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Integrity
Do the right thing, maintaining transparency, and ensure your actions reflect our words.
Teamwork
United in spirit, we collaborate to overcome challenges and achieve our goals.
Customer Focused
Dedicated to satisfying the needs of our internal and external customers.
Passion
Approach every project and task with enthusiasm and a commitment to success.
Relationship Building
Committed to fostering lasting relationships based on mutual respect and care.
Self- Motivation
Take ownership by being proactive in identifying and solving problems.