What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chef de Cuisine position at Hotel Wailea?
We are seeking an exceptionally talented, innovative, and passionate Chef de Cuisine to lead the culinary team at our award-winning Relais & Châteaux resort in Wailea, Maui. This rare opportunity offers the chance to oversee one of the most stunning kitchens in the Pacific, surrounded by natural beauty, world-class amenities, and a culture of genuine hospitality.
As Chef de Cuisine, you will take ownership of our multi-outlet culinary operation, which includes fine dining experiences, bespoke private dinners, in-room dining, and breakfast service. You will be responsible for curating and executing refined, ingredient-driven menus that reflect a deep respect for local ingredients, technique, and guest experience, while upholding the standards of our globally recognized brand.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary Leadership & Creativity
- Design and execute elevated menus that reflect contemporary techniques, local flavors, and luxury standards.
- Lead chef-driven experiences across signature outlets including Chef’s Kitchen Table, Garden Table, and Treehouse Experiences.
- Maintain oversight of food quality and consistency through daily mise en place, prep, service, and end-of-service procedures.
- Ensure proper execution and presentation of all dishes, using artistic plating and luxury ingredients.
Guest Experience & Hospitality
- Demonstrate a guest-first mindset at all times—adapting to individual preferences, dietary needs, and special requests.
- Engage with guests when appropriate, especially during bespoke dining experiences, to enhance their connection to the cuisine and the property.
- Uphold and exemplify the Relais & Châteaux commitment to personalized, memorable hospitality through food.
Team Development & Culture
- Foster a collaborative, respectful, and high-performance kitchen culture with a strong emphasis on communication and mentorship.
- Train and coach the culinary brigade on preparation techniques, plating standards, food safety, sanitation, and kitchen organization.
- Utilize tools such as prep sheets (Excel), SOPs, and checklists to streamline operations and build consistency.
Operational Excellence & Financial Management
- Oversee kitchen operations to meet both guest expectations and financial targets, including labor, food cost, and inventory management.
- Lead food cost analysis, portion control, waste reduction, and vendor relationships to ensure profitability and sustainability.
- Maintain complete fluency with our food costing system, Craftable, and contribute to regular menu engineering reviews.
- Maintain compliance with all Department of Health (DOH) regulations, ensuring excellence in hygiene, storage, and temperature control.
Qualifications
- Proven experience as Chef de Cuisine, Executive Sous Chef, or equivalent in a fine dining or luxury hotel setting.
- Relais & Châteaux, Michelin-starred, or James Beard experience is highly desirable.
- Strong foundation in modern and classical cooking techniques across global cuisines.
- A deep understanding of culinary trends, ingredient sourcing, and sustainability practices.
- Proficiency in kitchen management software, Excel, and Word.
- Strong leadership, communication, and time-management skills.
- Ability to lead and inspire a multicultural team in a high-pressure, detail-oriented environment.
- Willingness to work flexible hours including mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays.
- Culinary degree preferred, but not required with relevant experience.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive compensation
- 401(k) with company matching
- Comprehensive health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off
- Daily staff meals
- Employee discounts
- Opportunity to work in one of the most beautiful and well-equipped kitchens in the Pacific
Relocation & Work Requirements
- Must be able to relocate to Wailea, Maui prior to the start date
- Reliable transportation and ability to work in person at the resort
- A typical work week is 5 days with 10–12 hour shifts based on business needs
Join Us
This is a unique opportunity to lead a culinary program with creative freedom, premium resources, and a dedicated team in a setting unlike any other. If you are a visionary chef with a passion for excellence and a heart for hospitality, we invite you to apply and bring your talents to our world-class resort.
Compensation
A range of 90,000 - 110,000 depending on experience & resume
Salary : $90,000 - $110,000