Executive Chef

Executive Chef (Entry-Level)

Tanglewood Resort – Pottsboro, TX

Position Summary

Tanglewood Resort in Pottsboro, Texas is seeking an Entry-Level Executive Chef to lead our culinary team and support the daily operations of our food and beverage outlets, events, and guest dining experiences. This role is ideal for a motivated chef ready to take the next step into leadership, with a focus on quality, consistency, teamwork, and cost control.

The Executive Chef will oversee kitchen operations, ensure food safety compliance, and work closely with resort leadership to deliver an outstanding guest experience.

Key Responsibilities

Kitchen Leadership & Team Development

• Lead and support kitchen staff with day-to-day direction, coaching, and accountability
• Assist with hiring, training, scheduling, and performance development of kitchen team members
• Promote a positive, professional, and team-focused kitchen culture

Food Quality & Execution

• Ensure high standards of food quality, presentation, taste, and consistency
• Oversee prep, service, and kitchen flow for all dining periods
• Maintain standard recipes, portion controls, and plating guidelines

Menu & Culinary Planning

• Assist in developing and updating menus, daily specials, and seasonal features
• Participate in tastings, kitchen planning, and guest satisfaction improvements
• Help create banquet and event menus that align with resort standards and budgets

Food Safety & Sanitation

• Maintain compliance with health department regulations and company sanitation standards
• Ensure proper food handling, storage, labeling, and temperature controls
• Support ongoing cleaning schedules and safe kitchen operations

Inventory & Cost Control

• Assist with ordering, inventory counts, and managing food and supply levels
• Help monitor food costs, waste, and spoilage through proper controls
• Work with vendors and leadership to ensure quality and pricing standards

Collaboration & Guest Experience

• Communicate effectively with front-of-house, banquet, and resort leadership teams
• Respond to guest requests and dietary needs with professionalism and urgency
• Support special events, holiday dining, banquets, and resort functions as needed

Qualifications

• Culinary degree required
• 2+ years of kitchen experience (lead line cook, sous chef, or comparable experience preferred)
• Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, and kitchen best practices
• Basic knowledge of inventory, ordering, and cost control
• Ability to lead a team with professionalism and consistency
• Must be able to work a flexible schedule including weekends, holidays, and evenings

Preferred Skills

• Experience in a resort, hotel, restaurant, or banquet/event environment
• ServSafe Certification (or willingness to obtain within a set timeframe)
• Strong organization and communication skills
• Ability to handle high-volume service while maintaining quality

Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand for long periods and work in a fast-paced kitchen environment
• Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and work around heat, cold, and kitchen equipment

Why Work at Tanglewood Resort?

• Beautiful resort setting with a team-centered culture
• Opportunity for growth and leadership development
• A chance to build menus, lead a team, and help shape the guest dining experience

Tanglewood Resort is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

Job Type: Full-time

Benefits:

• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Food provided
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Vision insurance

License/Certification:

• ServSafe (Required)