06/23/2026
Ideal Candidate
The ideal chef will be creative, flexible, and hospitality-minded, with the ability to provide guests with a special experience while also supporting the mission of Buckeye Ridge Rescue & Retreat. We are looking for someone who understands that food is part of the overall experience, whether it is a peaceful private dinner, a retreat meal, or a meaningful fundraising event.
Overview
The Pines at Buckeye Ridge is seeking a talented, dependable, and professional Private Chef to provide elevated dining experiences for guests who wish to add private chef services during their stay. This contracted role may also support fundraising events hosted through Buckeye Ridge Rescue & Retreat on an as-needed basis, based on availability.
This is not a full-time or guaranteed-hours position, but could be as we ramp up. Opportunities will be scheduled in advance, and all menus, pricing, event details, and expectations will be reviewed and agreed upon before the chef is placed on the schedule.
About the Role
The Private Chef will create thoughtful, high-quality meals for overnight guests, private stays, retreats, and special events. Services may include intimate dinners, breakfasts, brunches, small group meals, retreat meals, or larger fundraising event food service depending on the chef’s availability and the needs of each event.
The ideal candidate is experienced, organized, creative, and comfortable working independently while representing the elevated hospitality experience of The Pines at Buckeye Ridge.
Responsibilities
The contracted Private Chef may be asked to:
Prepare customized meals for guests staying at The Pines at Buckeye Ridge.
Create menu options for private dining experiences, retreats, and special stays.
Support fundraising events for Buckeye Ridge Rescue & Retreat when available.
Provide menu recommendations based on guest count, event style, dietary needs, and budget.
Submit pricing, food costs, service fees, and menu details for approval prior to scheduling.
Shop for, prepare, cook, plate, and serve meals as agreed upon for each booking or event.
Maintain a clean, organized, and professional kitchen/workspace.
Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health guidelines.
Accommodate dietary restrictions or allergies when communicated in advance.
Represent The Pines at Buckeye Ridge and Buckeye Ridge Rescue & Retreat in a warm, professional, and guest-focused manner.
Event & Scheduling Expectations
This is an as-needed contracted position.
Each private guest experience or fundraising event will be discussed individually.
Menus, pricing, expectations, guest count, timing, and service details must be agreed upon before the chef is scheduled.
The chef may accept or decline opportunities based on availability.
There is no guaranteed number of events, bookings, or hours.
Payment terms will be determined per event or private dining experience and agreed to in advance.
Qualifications
Required:
Prior experience as a private chef, caterer, restaurant chef, event chef, or similar food service role.
Strong menu planning and food preparation skills.
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation practices.
Ability to provide clear pricing and menu proposals in advance.
Professional communication and reliability.
Ability to work independently and manage timing, preparation, and service.
Preferred:
Experience with private events, retreats, luxury guest experiences, or fundraising events.
Ability to accommodate special diets and dietary restrictions.
Experience with elegant presentation and plated or buffet-style service.
Current food safety certification or applicable licensing, if required.
Familiarity with nonprofit events or mission-based organizations.
Contractor Status
This position is a contracted, as-needed role. The Private Chef is not an employee of The Pines at Buckeye Ridge or Buckeye Ridge Rescue & Retreat. The contractor is responsible for their own taxes, insurance, certifications, permits, transportation, and any applicable licensing required to provide food services.
To Apply
Interested candidates should submit their experience, sample menus, pricing structure, availability, and any applicable certifications or references.
