Job Description

ABOUT OUR COMPANY

Zellah Collection is committed to delivering genuine, unscripted hospitality that resonates with each guest's unique experiences. Inspired by the ethos of 'one who knows the path,' we aim to reflect a deep understanding of our guests' unique journeys in every interaction. We focus on crafting personalized, memorable experiences that go beyond expectations and leave an enduring impression on all we serve.

JOB OVERVIEW

Element is a well-loved, locally rooted restaurant in historic Sutter Creek, serving both destination travelers and a strong local community . This is a rare opportunity for a creative, ownership-minded Head Chef to lead a kitchen where your voice, vision, and leadership truly matter.

Sutter Creek is 1 hour southeast of Sacramento , offering a relaxed pace, a strong local community, and access to regional agriculture and wine.

Element offers real influence over menus, specials, and seasonal direction, along with the chance to build systems and standards that last. You’ll work closely with a collaborative ownership team that values thoughtful food, smart costing, and sustainable operationsat a pace that supports excellence without burnout.

This role is ideal for a chef who wants to run a kitchen like it’s their own, take pride in consistency and margins, and be part of a restaurant deeply woven into its community.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead all kitchen operations, including menu development, execution, and quality control.
• Create seasonal, creative dishes that reflect the region and Element’s approachable style
• Manage food costing, recipe development, portioning, and pricing to meet target margins
• Oversee ordering, inventory, and vendor relationships
• Hire, train, schedule, and lead BOH staff with professionalism and consistency
• Maintain health department compliance, cleanliness, and food safety standards
• Collaborate with ownership on the evolution of the restaurant, menus, and guest experience

QUALIFICATIONS

• Proven experience as a Head Chef, Executive Chef, or Kitchen Lead
• Strong command of food costing, labor management, and kitchen financials
• Ownership-minded, business-savvy approach to kitchen leadership
• Experience building systems, recipes, and standards—not just executing them
• Hands-on leadership style with the ability to motivate and retain a small team
• Comfortable working in a small-town, high-touch hospitality environment
• Education: Culinary training or equivalent experience preferred
• Licenses: Food Safety Manager Certification
• Experience: 3+ years of kitchen leadership with food costing and team management

BENFITS

• Salary range, depending on experience
• Performance-based bonus potential
• Culinary Event Bonus Program
• A leadership role with meaningful creative and operational influence
• Paid vacation
• 401 (k)

CLASSIFICATION

This position is classified as non-exempt under California wage and hour laws and is eligible for overtime pay in accordance with applicable state and federal regulations.

HOW TO APPLY

Please email your resume to info@hanfordhouse.com and a brief note about your culinary philosophy or leadership style.

WORK LOCATION

In person

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