Chefs for a Private Montana Guest Ranch

2024 Season: May 1st – December 8th

Experienced, full-time chef (or chefs, if there is a couple) wanted for large, private ranch in the Madison Valley in Montana.

We are a large, working ranch in the Madison Valley in Montana that used to operate as an eco-hotel, but now is strictly a private ranch for the recreational use of three partners, their family and friends. We do not have any paying customers, but try to operate as a five-star retreat. Our guests come to hike, look at wildlife, fly-fish, ride horses, sit in our hot springs, shoot the clay course or just relax.

This is an ideal position for a couple, with the partner working in tandem in the kitchen, with meal service, an/or with the potential to assist in lodge management, etc.  (say something about the commercial kitchen)

The meals prepared by the chef would be varied. For example, while great steaks and grilled vegetables would be the menu some nights, we would expect some creativity on other nights, maybe with an international influence. The partners have come to expect the best from the meals at the ranch and we want to continue that tradition.

On average our groups are in sizes from two to 18 or so (including children). We plan on three meals a day, with appetizers before dinner and snacks some afternoons. The chef would be responsible for wait staff coordination, kitchen preparation and cleaning. The size and timing of groups varies, so flexibility and adaptability is a must. There will be schedules of groups, but the timing and number of meals varies depending on the guests’ activities that day and being able to adjust quickly and with a positive attitude is a must.  

When there are no visitors at the ranch, we would want the chef to cook meals for staff some of the time, to try out new dishes, practice “and as a little benefit to the other people working out here”. Everyone helps everyone else and we want the kind of person who is willing to be a team player. We are looking to put together a group at the ranch for the long-term and are well on our way.

This is a great job for someone who enjoys the outdoors, as we are in a remote area.  In your free time, there is easy access to fishing and hiking. Yellowstone Park is about 45 minutes. While it can feel isolated here, Ennis is 30 minutes up the road and Bozeman is an hour and half away.

Other duties would include:

• Designing and implementing menus that reflect an appreciation of, and includes organic, local and sustainably-harvested foods and the ability to adjust menus based on various dietary restrictions
• Keeping track of food inventory and ensure supplies are well stocked
• Cleaning all food preparation equipment used, and ensure food preparation and service areas are maintained in a clean and sanitary manner
• Preparing budgets for group trips
• Checking-in and put away food deliveries
• Tending to any requests by the guests and problem solving as needed
• Maintaining the comfort and relaxed ranch atmosphere enjoyed by our guests and staff
• Occasional driving required for supply shopping and airport shuttle for guests
• Managing the set up and close down of the kitchen at the beginning and end of the season
• Evaluating current season and make recommendations for following season

These are not the only duties to be assigned. Some duties may be reassigned and other duties assigned as required.

Qualifications required:

• Need to genuinely enjoy people, both guests and fellow staff
• Need experience in the use and care of food preparation appliances and equipment
• Possess strong cost management skills.  We want to do everything in a first-class manner, but we do not want to waste money
• Possess the ability to plan in advance for changes in group sizes at the last minute and make those adjustments in a calm manner and with a positive attitude
• Have the ability to manage inventory efficiently
• Have the desire to make guests and staff feel welcomed and well cared for
• Enjoy preparing and cooking meals for up to 20 people in one sitting
• Be a good role model, exhibiting character traits such as honesty, strong work ethic, patience, kindness and respect for others
• Ability to work under time constraints
• Have high standards of cleanliness in all you do
• Have the ability to manage yourself in a professional and calm manner when under pressure
• Be able to work with or without supervision
• Be a team player who is willing to help out whenever there is a need
• Be able to accept guidance and correction with a positive, respectful attitude
• Be honest, have a strong work ethic, patience, kindness and respect for others
• Be in good physical condition

The position is full-time from May through the end of November.We pay a fair wage and provide comfortable housing in a beautiful setting.

All applicants are required to comply with I-9 employment eligibility requirements and have a valid driver's license.

Job Type: Contract

Experience:

• Private Chef: 2 years (Preferred)

Work authorization:

• United States (Required)

Work Location:

• One location

Schedule:

• Other