Imagine trading the hustle of the city for the charm of Michigan's beautiful Art Coast—without going far from home. Located just three hours from Chicago in the vibrant lakeshore community of Saugatuck, the Wickwood Inn offers a rare opportunity to build your culinary career while enjoying an exceptional quality of life. The Wickwood Inn has long been recognized as a culinary destination. In 1991, celebrated cookbook author Julee Rosso, co-author of The Silver Palate Cookbook, elevated the inn to national acclaim with her innovative farm-to-table breakfasts and commitment to seasonal, locally sourced cuisine. That legacy of thoughtful hospitality and exceptional food continues today. Today, Executive Chef and General Manager - Rose Duong leads the Wickwood Inn's celebrated culinary program. After spending 17 years honing her culinary expertise while working at Harpo Studios in Chicago, Chef Rose brings a passion for seasonal ingredients, refined technique, and gracious hospitality to every guest experience. Working alongside her, you'll gain hands-on experience in luxury boutique hospitality, farm-to-table cuisine, intimate weddings, private events, and thoughtfully curated dining experiences—all within a collaborative, mentorship-driven kitchen that encourages creativity, craftsmanship, and professional growth. From signature farm-to-table breakfasts and elegant garden dinners to intimate weddings, private celebrations, and curated special events, every day offers the opportunity to expand your skills while learning the art of boutique hospitality. Whether you're an experienced chef looking to refine your craft or an aspiring culinary professional eager to learn from accomplished mentors, this is far more than a restaurant position—it's an opportunity to become part of a celebrated culinary tradition and a destination where food, hospitality, and creativity come together. Why You'll Love It Here Work alongside Executive Chef Rose Duong in a collaborative, mentorship-driven kitchen. Learn techniques rooted in seasonality, farm-to-table cooking, and elevated boutique hospitality. Gain experience executing intimate weddings, private events, and luxury guest dining experiences. Live and work in the charming lakeside town of Saugatuck, Michigan—one of the Midwest's premier travel destinations. Just three hours from Chicago—close enough for an easy getaway, yet a world away from city life. Be part of a nationally recognized luxury boutique inn known for exceptional design, hospitality, and unforgettable culinary experiences.

Position Summary:

The Chef plays an integral role in creating the exceptional culinary experience our guests have come to expect at our luxury bed and breakfast. This position participates in all aspects of preparing and executing our daily breakfast and lunch service, as well as freshly baked goods and thoughtfully curated snacks available throughout the day. Beyond daily food service, the Chef works closely with the Executive Chef to plan and execute special events, including weddings, private dinners, whole-house buyouts, and seasonal in-house experiences. This role offers the opportunity to collaborate on customized menus, event logistics, and memorable dining experiences that reflect the Inn's commitment to exceptional hospitality and farm-to-table cuisine. The ideal candidate is passionate about culinary excellence, thrives in a collaborative environment, and enjoys creating unforgettable experiences for guests through both everyday service and special occasions.

Responsibilities:

Prepare and execute chef-designed menus with consistency, precision, and attention to quality Assist with food inventory management to minimize waste and support effective food cost control Plate and present all menu items with an elevated level of care, creativity, and attention to detail, reflecting the Inn's luxury dining experience Maintain the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and proper food handling practices Ensure a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment in compliance with health and safety regulations Perform dishwashing duties and maintain an organized kitchen throughout service to support an efficient and collaborative workflow

Successful Candidate Qualities:

Gracious people skills Attentive to detail and accuracy Strong communication skills Ability to work with liquid and dry measurements and practical math Excellent prioritization and organizational skills Calm and courteous under pressure Ability to work independently and exercise good judgment Ability to instruct and demonstrate for co-workers

Minimum Qualifications:

Reading, writing and verbal proficiency in the English language 1-2 years' experience working in a professional kitchen High school diploma or equivalent Availability to work full-time with shifts beginning at 6:00 a.m. Availability to work on weekends and some holidays is a must Experience with all aspects of prep and execution of breakfast menu, food handling certification and culinary training are pluses. ServSafe certification is a plus.

Physical Requirements:

Ability to stand and walk for extended periods (up to eight hours). Use hands to handle, control or feel objects, tools or controls Repeat the same movements Must be able to lift, push or pull up to 40 lbs. at times Ability to drive and hold a valid driver's license The Wickwood Inn is an equal employment opportunity employer.

Shift:

Day shift

License/Certification:

Driver's License (Required) Shift availability: Day Shift (Required)

Work Location:

In person