Personal Chef | Atherton, CA
Our client in Atherton, California, is seeking an experienced and health-conscious Personal Chef (W-2 employee) to prepare weekday meals for a family of three — two adults and their school-aged child.
Local candidates only. Must be a non-smoker/non-vaper, able to pass an in-depth background check, and provide excellent professional references. Home includes two very sweet, very energetic goldendoodles; the chef must be comfortable with dogs!
Position Overview
The family prioritizes health and wellness and enjoys clean, fresh, flavorful meals with an emphasis on seafood and anti-inflammatory cuisine. The ideal chef brings creativity, nutritional awareness, and a warm, steady presence. Menus should be balanced, seasonal, and tailored to evolving dietary needs under medical guidance.
Their everyday preference leans Mediterranean, but they love a wide range of cuisines — Mexican, Italian, French, Persian, Japanese, and Indian. A few favorite restaurants include French Laundry, Le Cinq, and a beloved neighborhood Mexican food truck. A chef who enjoys range and thoughtful interpretation will be a natural match.
Responsibilities
- Prepare weekday lunches and dinners
- Occasionally, set the table and serve casual meals
- Provide kid-friendly snacks and heartier family meals as needed, prep food for the child’s lunch box
- Cook with fresh, whole ingredients — no processed foods or heavy sauces
- Incorporate vegetable-heavy, high-protein dishes and work to avoid leftovers
- Submit weekly menu proposals to the family for approval
- Prepare meals for occasional small events or gatherings
- Maintain a spotless, well-organized kitchen and handle all grocery purchasing
- Work independently and communicate clearly about preferences and scheduling
- Be comfortable around active, friendly dogs
Schedule
- Approximately 3 days per week (M/W/F preferred, flexible)
- 6–8 hours per shift, typically daytime
- Chef prepares lunch and dinner for the day + next-day meals, then departs
- Guaranteed weekly hours
Compensation & Benefits
- $75–$90 per hour, DOE
- Paid vacation and paid sick leave
- Discretionary annual bonus
- Qualified chefs will be invited for a paid cooking trial
- W-2 employment
Ideal Candidate
Someone who:
- Brings positive energy, humor, and professionalism
- Understands nutrition and enjoys tailoring menus to support health goals,
- The ideal candidate enjoys the challenge of making healthy versions of traditionally less healthy Is reliable, organized, and communicative
- Respects the family’s privacy and home environment
- Enjoys variety — from Mediterranean to Japanese, Persian, Italian, Indian, French, and Mexican
- Takes pride in consistency and delivering high-quality meals
