Executive Chef - The Republic Lodge at Cedar Cove Ranch Eustace, TX | Full-Time | Benefits |

Optional Free On-Site Lodging Salary:

$55,000-$65,000, based on experience Lead the Next Chapter of Our Culinary Program Cedar Cove Ranch is an established luxury ranch, resort, and retreat destination in East Texas where exceptional food and hospitality are central to the guest experience. With the opening of The Republic Lodge , our new flagship lodge, we're looking for a talented, hands-on Executive Chef to lead our culinary program into its next chapter. This is an opportunity to build on an established foundation while bringing fresh ideas, strong leadership, and consistency to an expanding culinary operation. Our dining experiences range from intimate multi-course dinners and executive retreats to weddings, private events, hunting experiences, and outdoor dining across the ranch. One day may be a beautifully plated dinner for 10 executives; the next may be a 50-person corporate retreat, wedding, or private dinner overlooking the lake. The Role This is a working Executive Chef position for someone who enjoys being in the kitchen and leading by example. You'll take ownership of culinary execution and day-to-day kitchen operations while working closely with our Hospitality/F&B Director to continually elevate the guest dining experience. Responsibilities Lead daily kitchen operations from prep through service, remaining hands-on with cooking, plating, and execution Execute multi-course dinners, daily guest dining, corporate retreats, weddings, private events, and outdoor dining experiences Creative, elevated menus appropriate for the ranch and our guests Refine and maintain recipes, prep standards, plating standards, kitchen SOPs, and production systems Manage purchasing, inventory, receiving, food costs, waste, and vendor relationships Maintain exceptional standards for food safety, sanitation, cleanliness, and organization Hire, train, schedule, and develop culinary team members Coordinate closely with front-of-house and hospitality teams to ensure seamless guest experiences Partner with the Hospitality/F&B Director on menu development, costing, profitability, and service standards Help strengthen and scale culinary operations as Cedar Cove Ranch continues to grow What We're Looking For We care less about the title on your résumé and more about whether you can cook, lead, execute, and consistently deliver an exceptional guest experience.

Ideal candidates will have:

Experience as an Executive Chef, Head Chef, Chef de Cuisine, Sous Chef, Banquet Chef, or similar kitchen leadership role Experience in upscale restaurants, resorts, ranch, private clubs, catering, or event-driven culinary operations Strong hands-on culinary skills, including multi-course plated dining Excellent plating, presentation, and attention to detail The ability to maintain quality whether serving an intimate dinner or a larger event Working knowledge of food costing, purchasing, inventory management, and portion control Strong food safety and sanitation practices Experience training and leading culinary staff Strong communication, organization, and flexibility in a dynamic hospitality environment Experience with private dining, resorts, banquets, weddings, outdoor dining, or special events is a plus. Compensation & Benefits $55,000-$65,000 annual salary , based on experience On-site lodging available at no cost — lodging is optional Health insurance Paid time off Flexible scheduling based on operational needs Growth and advancement opportunities as the ranch expands The opportunity to lead and shape the next chapter of Cedar Cove Ranch's culinary program A truly unique luxury ranch and resort work environment About Cedar Cove Ranch Cedar Cove Ranch is a luxury outdoor resort and retreat destination serving corporate retreats, private groups, weddings, hunting guests, and special events. We bring together personalized hospitality, elevated dining, luxury accommodations, and outdoor adventure to create experiences our guests remember long after they leave.

Our Mission:

Create personalized, exclusive outdoor experiences that foster lifelong connections. How to Apply Send your résumé along with a short introduction telling us about your culinary background, the kitchens or dining programs you've helped lead, and why this opportunity interests you. Photos or a portfolio of your plated work are strongly encouraged.

Pay:

$55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year

Benefits:

Flexible schedule Health insurance Paid time off Application Question(s): What is motivating you to consider a new opportunity at this point in your career, and what are you looking for in your next role? What interests you about leading the culinary program at a destination retreat and hunting ranch, and what would you bring to the role?

Experience:

Chef:

5 years (Required)

License/Certification:

Food Management Certification (Required)

Work Location:

In person