Join Our Culinary Team as a Chef

Home Plate BBQ Restaurant | Marlin & Doris Thomas Memory Center at Willow Valley Communities

Join our founding team at the Memory Center! Start dates for these positions are anticipated between December 2026 and January 2027.

Help Us Change the Way Dementia Is Viewed

At Willow Valley Communities, we believe a dementia diagnosis does not define a person's future. The new Marlin & Doris Thomas Memory Center is designed to reshape how dementia is viewed and experienced, focusing on dignity, purpose, connection, and the belief that life can continue to be rich, meaningful, and full of joy.

We're looking for an innovative and passionate Chef to lead the culinary team at Home Plate, our exciting new BBQ restaurant within the Memory Center. This is a unique opportunity to combine culinary excellence, team leadership, and hospitality in an environment dedicated to creating extraordinary experiences for Residents, families, guests, and Team Members.

If you're a creative leader who loves developing people, crafting exceptional dining experiences, and making a meaningful impact every day, we'd love to hear from you.

Position Details

Employment Type: Full-Time, Salaried

Starting Pay: $32.00/hour+, based on experience

Schedule:

• Tuesday-Saturday
• 11:00 AM - 7:00 PM
• Hours will adjust in April 2027

Why Willow Valley Communities?

We believe exceptional experiences start with exceptional Team Members. That's why we offer:

🩺 Excellent health, dental, and vision benefits
🏖️ Generous PTO package

📈 401k package with company match
🏋🏼‍♀️ Access to outstanding campus amenities, including a gym, indoor pool, and more
🎓 Tuition reimbursement and scholarship opportunities
🎉 Team Member events and recognition programs
And so much more!

What You'll Do

As Chef of Home Plate, you'll be responsible for successfully operating an innovative restaurant concept while leading a team dedicated to providing exceptional food and service.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading and supervising all kitchen operations
• Recruiting, hiring, scheduling, developing, and mentoring Culinary Team Members
• Training and supporting Sous Chefs, Cooks, and other Culinary Team Members
• Conducting daily production meetings and communicating menu, recipe, and operational updates
• Ensuring food is prepared to the highest standards of quality, presentation, and taste
• Managing labor schedules and maintaining accurate timekeeping records
• Monitoring food preparation, food handling, and cooking techniques
• Collaborating on innovative, seasonal menus and new recipe development
• Managing inventory, ordering, forecasting, and food management systems
• Controlling food costs through production management, waste reduction, and portion control
• Planning and overseeing special events and catering functions
• Conducting dining room rounds and interacting with Residents to ensure satisfaction
• Leading quality improvement initiatives and participating in operational audits
• Maintaining the highest standards of cleanliness, sanitation, and food safety
• Attending Resident Committee meetings as needed
• Performing other duties as assigned

Leadership Responsibilities

This role directly supervises approximately 6 to 15 Culinary Team Members and plays a key role in developing a high-performing team.

Responsibilities include:

• Interviewing and hiring qualified candidates
• Training and onboarding Team Members
• Coaching, mentoring, and performance management
• Recognizing and rewarding excellent performance
• Addressing concerns and resolving workplace challenges
• Creating an engaging and positive team culture

What We're Looking For

We're seeking a culinary leader who is passionate about hospitality, team development, and creating memorable dining experiences.

Qualifications include:

• Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts or related field
• Minimum of four years of relevant culinary leadership experience
• Experience with food and labor cost control
• Menu development and culinary innovation experience
• Knowledge of inventory management and forecasting
• Demonstrated leadership and team development skills
• Ability to thrive in a dynamic, guest-focused environment
• Professional appearance and positive attitude
• Energy, enthusiasm, and a passion for engaging with Residents and guests
• Contract-managed service and P&L experience preferred
• Equivalent combinations of education and experience will be considered

Why Join Home Plate & Willow Valley Communities?

This is more than a chef position.

You'll have the opportunity to launch and lead a brand-new BBQ restaurant in one of the most innovative memory support communities in the region. At Home Plate, food is about more than nourishment. It's about creating familiar experiences, meaningful connections, and moments of joy that bring people together.

As part of the Marlin & Doris Thomas Memory Center, you'll help create an environment that focuses on abilities rather than limitations and demonstrates how exceptional hospitality can enrich the lives of those living with memory challenges.

Build Something Special With Us

The opening of Home Plate BBQ Restaurant represents an exciting new chapter for Willow Valley Communities and the Marlin & Doris Thomas Memory Center.

If you're ready to lead a talented culinary team, create exceptional dining experiences, and help redefine how dementia is viewed through hospitality, connection, and innovation, we invite you to apply today.