Executive Chef

Executive Chef

Bring your culinary vision to a culturally rich and mission-driven environment at the National Museum of the American Indian. As Executive Chef, you'll lead a dynamic café and coffee bar operation serving a high-volume, diverse audience. This role offers the opportunity to shape menus that reflect creativity, authenticity, and quality while guiding a collaborative culinary team. You'll play a key role in delivering an exceptional guest experience, supporting innovation in food programs, and fostering a workplace where team members can learn, grow, and thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and support all operations for the café and coffee bar, ensuring consistency, quality, and efficiency
• Guide, mentor, and develop a team of associates, creating an inclusive and engaging workplace culture
• Design and execute menus that align with seasonal ingredients, guest preferences, and cultural relevance
• Manage food and labor costs by monitoring budgets, forecasting needs, and optimizing resources
• Oversee purchasing, inventory management, and vendor partnerships
• Ensure all food safety, sanitation, and regulatory standards are upheld
• Partner with marketing and culinary leadership to introduce new programs, promotions, and concepts
• Support high-volume service and catering initiatives as needed

What We're Looking For

• Experience leading culinary operations in a high-volume café, restaurant, or hospitality setting
• Background in catering or large-scale food production
• Comfort with managing budgets, cost controls, and inventory processes
• A collaborative leadership style with a focus on coaching and team development
• Strong organizational and communication skills
• A passion for food, hospitality, and continuous learning
• Culinary degree or equivalent hands-on experience
• Experience in a cultural institution, museum, or destination dining environment
• Familiarity with diverse cuisines and the ability to create thoughtful, inclusive menus

Associates at Restaurant Associates are offered many fantastic benefits.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/ AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
• Paid Parental Leave
• Personal Leave

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Restaurant Associates maintains a drug-free workplace.