Chef - Orchard Heights

Hamister Group•Orchard Park, NY

About The Position

Orchard Heights is seeking a passionate and experienced Lead Chef to oversee and elevate the culinary experience for our residents across Assisted Living, Memory Care, and Independent Living. This supervisory role for is for a culinary professional who believes food should be flavorful, beautifully presented, and thoughtfully prepared. If you take pride in quality, consistency, and leading a strong team — we’d love to meet you!

Requirements

3–5+ years of culinary experience (culinary supervisory or managerial experience in healthcare or senior living preferred)
Strong knowledge of scratch cooking and menu development
Experience with special diets (low sodium, diabetic, mechanical soft, puree, etc.)
ServSafe Certification (or willingness to obtain)
Strong organizational and team leadership skills
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, hospitality-focused environment
Ability to work alternating weekends and holidays

Nice To Haves

culinary supervisory or managerial experience in healthcare or senior living preferred

Responsibilities

Lead daily culinary operations
Help plan, develop, and execute seasonal menus
Ensure meals meet dietary guidelines, physician orders, and special dietary needs
Oversee food preparation, presentation, and quality standards
Help manage inventory and ordering
Maintain strict compliance with NYS DOH regulations and food safety standards
Supervise, coach, and mentor culinary team members
Collaborate with Recreation and Leadership to support themed events and special celebrations
Create a warm, restaurant-style dining experience our residents look forward to daily