Job Description Job Description

About the Club:

The Highwood Bocce Club was founded in 1969 and is a vibrant, member-driven organization that hosts regular dinners, social events, and the National's championship of bocce in a welcoming atmosphere in downtown Highwood, Illinois.

The Highwood Bocce Club is seeking an experienced culinary professional to oversee and manage our kitchen operations. This is a part-time position ideal for someone who enjoys a community-focused environment and takes pride in delivering quality meals in a social setting.

The Chef is responsible for overseeing all culinary operations at the private bocce club, delivering high-quality food that complements a relaxed yet refined social atmosphere. This role blends creativity with efficiency, supporting both casual dining and private events for members.

Position Details:

Part-time (approximately 1,000 hours per year)
Variable schedule based on the event calendar (primarily evenings and weekends)
60+ events per year, including member dinners and special functions
Event & Member Services
Create customized menus for private events, leagues, and tournaments
Coordinate food service timing with bocce activities
Engage with members to maintain a personalized dining experience
Flexible work hours
Fast-paced during leagues, tournaments, and private events
Social, community-driven atmosphere

Kitchen Management Responsibilities:

Lead and manage all kitchen operations for club events
Manage inventory, ordering, and food cost control
Ensure compliance with health and safety regulations
Supervise and coordinate a team of 3-4 cooks and dishwashers
Coordinate 2-3 waitstaff during larger dinners and events
Plan and develop menus for regular dinners and special occasions
Purchase food and manage inventory for all events
Ensure efficient kitchen workflow and maintain a high quality standard
Wine and food pairing knowledge
Oversee daily kitchen operations
Including prep, service, and cleanup

Qualifications:

Culinary experience of 4-5 years or AOS degree in culinary arts or hospitality and management degree is highly recommended
Proven experience as a Chef, preferably in a club, or hospitality setting
Prior kitchen leadership or management experience preferred
Strong organizational and leadership skills
Ability to adapt to a variable schedule
Dependable and able to manage multiple events throughout the year
Strong leadership and organizational skills
Ability to work evenings, weekends, and during events
Food safety certification and Food handlers
Knowledge of Italian, Mediterranean cuisine, American, French Bistro (All highly preferred due to bocce culture)

Key Traits for Success

Creative but practical
Strong communicator with members and staff
Flexible and service-oriented
Passion for hospitality, culinary and community
Leader

Highwood Bocce Club

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