Chef Job in Phoenicia, New York

Showcase your culinary and management skills while enjoying the beauty of Menla, a stunning 325-acre Catskill mountain retreat and spa located just outside Phoenicia, NY. Menla is seeking an experienced Head Chef to manage our bustling kitchen. We offer small to large volume catering-style meals (guest groups are typically 30-180 people), mostly vegetarian/vegan with some groups requesting fish or chicken. We also support individual or small group cleanses with special menus and juices. If you have a passion for the healing benefits of food and are looking for a unique career path working for a meaningful cause, this is a great opportunity. Owned by Tibet House US--the Dalai Lama's cultural center in America--Menla is neither a monastery, nor a full-time Dharma center, but rather an ecumenical non-profit retreat center and spa which hosts spiritual and other retreats from a variety of lineages and traditions, in addition to offering our own Buddhism/yoga-related group retreats, personal getaways for individuals and couples, and a full menu of day-spa services. Skills should include: 1) A strong knowledge of vegan/vegetarian cuisine with a focus on locally, seasonally, and organically sourced foods. 2) Ability to plan and execute every aspect of the kitchen, including: staff training, supervision, and scheduling (up to 15 staff, dependent on time of year and retreat schedule needs), regular inventory and ordering, creating prep lists and weekly menus, all while staying within a relatively modest budget. 3) Creativity in making well-rounded and delicious menus and a flair for innovation in utilizing leftover food. 4) Ability to multi-task well, balancing hands-on leadership in the kitchen with proper planning and organization. 5) Ideally at least 5 years experience (preferably more) in managing a comparable kitchen environment, preparing meals for large groups. 6) A calm temperament and pleasant disposition While this position is year-round, heaviest demands fall within the primary retreat season (mid-April through mid-November), with occasional winter retreats. Typically our chef works extra hours during the busy season and takes extra time off during the slower months. Serious inquiries only please! Compensation: Annual salary, two weeks paid vacation, off-season comp-time, and free attendance of Menla-sponsored classes and workshops. Possible on-site housing available, if needed, for the right candidate. Location: Catskills, NY (Phoenicia) Website: www.....org