Wood-Fired Culinary Specialist | Non-Exempt | Carneros Resort & Spa

Reports to: Executive Chef / Outlet Chef

Classification: Hourly, Non-Exempt

The Wood-Fired Culinary Specialist is a specialized culinary professional responsible executing wood-fired culinary offerings, including pizza, small plates, and roasted items, utilizing high-temperature wood-burning ovens and open-flame cooking techniques. For pizza making, this includes responsibility for the entire pizza-making process—from dough fermentation to managing a high-temperature wood-burning oven.

The ideal candidate is highly skilled in wood-fired cooking, comfortable working in an outdoor environment, and capable of maintaining precision, speed, and consistency in a fast-paced, guest-facing setting.

Key Responsibilities:

Wood-Fired Cooking & Oven Management:

• Build, maintain, and monitor wood fires to keep ovens at optimal temperatures (typically 700°F–900°F).
• Maintain high heat (700°F ) for rapid pizza baking while utilizing lower-heat zones or residual heat (450°F–600°F) for roasted items.
• Rotate pizzas and other products for even cooking and proper crust development.
• Monitor flame intensity and adjust heat levels to maintain consistent cooking results.

Pizza & Dough Execution:

• Prep, ferment, and hand-stretch dough to specific and established standards (e.g., Neapolitan), ensuring consistent thickness and texture.
• Execute consistent pizza builds with proper portioning and ingredient placement.
• Maintain consistent thickness, texture, and presentation across all pizzas.
• Ensure pizzas are cooked and delivered within established service time standards (8-10 minutes from ordering).

Ingredient Preparation & Station Management:

• Prepare sauces, toppings, and garnishes according to culinary standards.
• Ensure proper chopping, portioning, and storage of vegetables, meats, and accompaniments.
• Maintain clean, organized, and stocked workstation throughout service.

• Monitor inventory levels and communicate product needs to culinary leadership.
• Prepare wood-fired small plates, roasted vegetables, and specialty items using open-flame techniques.
• Execute seasonal and rotating offerings using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
• Utilize cast iron, roasting pans, and wood-fired surfaces for varied menu items.
• Maintain consistency in seasoning, texture, and presentation

Menu Execution & Fire Cooking:

Service & Operational Support:

• Coordinate with service staff to ensure timely delivery of orders.
• Maintain strong communication with culinary and front-of-house teams.
• Ensure all items are presented attractively and meet quality standards.
• Support a smooth flow of service in high-volume environments.

Outdoor Cooking Operations:

• Operate safely in outdoor cooking environments and varying weather conditions, including but not limited to fire pit safety and equipment maintenance.
• Follow fire safety procedures and proper handling of wood, embers, and cooking equipment.
• Maintain cleanliness and sanitation of outdoor cooking station.
• Ensure compliance with food safety and health regulations.

Qualifications:

• Previous experience working with wood-fired ovens, stone ovens, or open-flame cooking required.
• Strong understanding of dough fermentation, hand-stretching, and pizza execution.
• Experience with roasting, cast-iron cooking, or fire-based culinary techniques preferred.
• Ability to work efficiently in high-volume, fast-paced environments.
• Strong attention to detail and consistency in execution.
• Valid Food Handler Certification required.
• ServSafe Certification preferred.

Schedule & Physical Requirements:

• Flexible availability required, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
• Ability to work in high-heat and outdoor cooking environments.
• Ability to stand for extended periods during service.
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds, including wood, flour bags, and equipment.
• Ability to bend, reach, and perform repetitive cooking tasks.

Total Compensation

• Base Salary
• Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance 
• Health and Dependent Care FSA Options
• Life Insurance, Short-Term Disability and Long-Term Disability 
• Critical Illness, Cancer, Hospital Indemnity and Accident Supplemental Insurance
• 401k with Employer Match
• Paid Time Off (PTO) & Sick Leave