Location: Private ranch near Santa Nella, CA
Job Type: Part-Time/Contract (Approximately 12 events per year)
Compensation: $40–$50 per hour 9based on experience
Hours per Event: 30–40 hours over 3 days
About the Opportunity: Join our team at Sunlight Ranch as a Private Chef for our exclusive ranch events! We host about 12 events annually, each lasting 3 days, where you'll handle all meal preparation for guests enjoying the ranch lifestyle. This is a flexible, part-time role ideal for a skilled cook who loves creating hearty, meat-focused meals in a rustic setting. Events typically involve groups of 20, and you'll have the creative freedom to showcase ranch-style cuisine while managing the full process from start to finish. Build ongoing relationships with our team and guests while enjoying the beauty of ranch life.
Key Responsibilities: Menu Planning & Purchasing: Source and buy all ingredients, focusing on high-quality meats, produce, and supplies within budget guidelines.
Food Preparation: Cook breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks for each 3-day event, emphasizing meat-centric dishes like grilled steaks, BBQ ribs, roasts, brisket, and hearty sides (e.g., beans, cornbread, potatoes, and seasonal veggies).
Serving: Buffet-style service
Cleanup: Handle all post-meal cleanup, including dishes, kitchen organization, and waste management to leave the space spotless.
Work independently or with minimal supervision, adhering to food safety standards and accommodating basic dietary needs
Requirements: Proven background in cooking meat, steak, BBQ, and ranch-style or Southwestern cuisine (e.g., experience in ranches, lodges, catering, or restaurants specializing in grilled/BBQ fare).
Ability to provide examples of past menus, photos of dishes, or a portfolio showcasing your meat-focused creations.
At least 3 professional references from previous chef, catering, or cooking roles.
Reliable transportation and willingness to work weekends/holidays as events dictate.
Food Handler's certification (or equivalent) and knowledge of safe food handling practices.
Physical ability to stand for long periods, lift up to 50 lbs (e.g., groceries, equipment), and work in an outdoor-adjacent kitchen environment.
Preferred: Experience with event catering for groups, bulk purchasing, and budget management. ServSafe certification is a plus.
Why Work With Us? Flexible schedule: Only commit to events that fit your availability (advance notice provided).
Opportunity to cook in a scenic ranch setting with fresh, local ingredients.
Room for growth if events expand.
How to ApplyPlease submit your resume, examples of your work (e.g., sample menus, photos, or descriptions of signature dishes), and contact info for at least 3 references to [your email address or application link]. In your cover letter, tell us about your experience with meat/BBQ cooking and why you'd excel in a ranch environment.We are an equal opportunity employer and look forward to hearing from qualified candidates! Applications reviewed on a rolling basis.
