Executive Chef

StepStone Hospitality is seeking a passionate, creative, and results-driven Executive Chef to lead the culinary operations at the DoubleTree by Hilton Portland, Maine. The Executive Chef is responsible for overseeing all kitchen operations, ensuring exceptional food quality, maintaining financial goals, and leading a high-performing culinary team that delivers memorable dining experiences for hotel guests and event attendees.

This position requires strong leadership, culinary creativity, operational excellence, and a commitment to Hilton brand standards and guest satisfaction.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead all culinary operations including restaurant, banquet, catering, and room service functions 
• Develop innovative menus and seasonal offerings while maintaining brand consistency 
• Supervise, train, coach, and motivate kitchen team members 
• Ensure exceptional food quality, presentation, consistency, and sanitation standards 
• Manage food and labor costs to achieve budget and profitability goals 
• Oversee purchasing, inventory, receiving, and vendor relationships 
• Ensure compliance with health department regulations, food safety standards, and OSHA guidelines 
• Collaborate with hotel leadership on banquet planning, special events, and guest experience initiatives 
• Monitor kitchen equipment and coordinate maintenance needs 
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen operation 
• Foster a positive and professional work environment focused on teamwork and development 

Qualifications

• Minimum 3–5 years of Executive Chef or senior culinary leadership experience in hospitality or full-service dining 
• Hotel and banquet experience preferred 
• Strong knowledge of food cost control, labor management, and kitchen operations 
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills 
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-volume environment 
• Passion for culinary innovation and guest satisfaction 
• Food Safety Certification required 
• Hilton brand experience preferred but not required 
• Flexible schedule including weekends and holidays as needed 

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for extended periods of time 
• Ability to lift up to 50 pounds 
• Frequent bending, reaching, walking, and working in hot kitchen environments 

Benefits

• Competitive salary 
• Bonus potential 
• Health, dental, and vision insurance 
• Paid time off and holiday pay 
• 401(k) with company match 
• Hilton team member travel discounts 
• Career advancement opportunities with StepStone Hospitality

EOE - All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.