Martha Jefferson House

Chef

Sign-On Bonus*

Charlottesville, VA

Position Summary

The Chef is responsible for supervising the day-to-day kitchen operations at Martha Jefferson House, ensuring a clean, safe, and well-organized environment while delivering high-quality meals with exceptional presentation.

This role prioritizes excellence in food quality, consistency, and service. The Chef works closely with the Dining Services Director to provide nutritious, appealing meals to residents and staff while maintaining the highest sanitation and efficiency standards.

The Chef serves as a working leader—actively supporting kitchen operations, stepping into Cook or Dining Aide roles as needed, and assuming full responsibility for the department in the absence of the Dining Services Director.

Essential Functions

Leadership & Supervision

• Orient, train, schedule, and supervise Cooks and Dining Aides

• Lead by example, fostering a positive, respectful, and team-oriented kitchen culture

• Assist the Dining Services Director with employee performance evaluations

• Motivate, coach, and support staff to ensure high performance and accountability

Kitchen Operations & Quality

• Oversee meal service to ensure all meals are prepared, presented, and served on time

• Ensure all menu items are available and meet quality and presentation standards

• Work closely with production staff to ensure proper preparation and display of food

• Step into hands-on cooking or service roles as needed to support operations

• Assume full operational responsibility in the absence of the Dining Services Director

Resident Experience & Service Excellence

• Ensure accuracy of room service trays so all resident selections are complete and correct

• Demonstrate exceptional customer service in all interactions with residents, families, and staff

• Consider resident preferences, likes, and dietary needs in meal preparation and service

• Maintain a courteous, professional, and service-focused approach at all times

Sanitation, Safety & Compliance

• Maintain a clean, sanitary, and orderly kitchen environment in accordance with all regulations

• Ensure all food is stored, handled, and served at proper temperatures

• Monitor buffet lines and service areas for compliance with food safety standards

• Ensure proper cleaning of all kitchen equipment, workstations, and dining areas

• Oversee trash removal, stocking, and overall cleanliness of kitchen and storage areas

• Support quality assurance and continuous improvement initiatives

Inventory & Support

• Assist with tracking, ordering, and maintaining food and supply inventory

• Supervise stocking of food, supplies, and equipment

• Support special events, holiday meals, and community functions

• Perform additional duties as needed to support efficient department operations

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• High school diploma or equivalent required (or relevant experience in lieu of)

• Minimum 3 years of supervisory experience in food service

• Experience in senior living, healthcare, hospital, or institutional food service preferred

• Strong background in food preparation, kitchen operations, and production cooking

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation standards, and nutrition principles

• Ability to prepare and present food in an appealing, consistent, and timely manner

• Ability to lead, motivate, and inspire a team

• Strong organizational and time management skills

• Ability to work efficiently in a fast-paced environment

• Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment and enforce safety standards

• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a service-oriented mindset

• Ability to read, write, and understand English to follow instructions and documentation

• Basic computer skills or ability to complete required Relias training

Standards

• Demonstrates a genuine interest in and compassion for the elderly population

• Exhibits patience, professionalism, and tact in all interactions

• Maintains a positive attitude and willingness to learn and grow

• Works collaboratively and respectfully with all team members

Supervisory Responsibilities

Direct supervision of:

• Cooks

• Dining Aides

What We Offer

At Martha Jefferson House, caring for our team is just as important as caring for our residents. We proudly offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits package:

•  Sign-On Bonus*

• 100% Employer-Paid Health and Dental Plan Options

• Vision Benefits

• 403(b) Retirement Plan

• Health & Wealth Benefits through Transamerica (Short-Term Disability, Critical Illness Coverage)

• Group Term Life Insurance

• Generous Paid Time Off (PTO)

• 7 Paid Holidays

• Free Parking

• Complimentary Hot Meal Each Shift

Why Work Here?

When you join Martha Jefferson House, you become part of a team rooted in compassion, teamwork, and excellence. Your culinary skills directly impact the comfort, health, and happiness of those we serve.

This is more than a job—it’s an opportunity to cook with purpose and make a meaningful difference every day.

Sign-On Bonus Terms Apply

Sign-on bonus payout and eligibility are subject to Martha Jefferson House policy and employment requirements.

Equal Opportunity Employer

Martha Jefferson House is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We consider applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, national origin, age, family/parental status, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status.