Drop-Off Chef
Location: Atherton, CA
Start Date: ASAP
Schedule: Part-time, 8–10 hours/week total (shopping + prep + drop-offs)
Service: Drop-off meals 2 days/week (not Fridays or weekends) with an initial in-home ramp-up
Overview
Our client in Atherton is seeking an experienced drop-off chef to provide health-forward, high-protein dinners twice per week. Meals should be lean, meat-forward, veggie-heavy, and designed to reheat well. The family values privacy, discretion, and a polished, professional presence.
Major plus: Chefs with experience cooking for professional athletes or highly performance-focused clients.
Family & Meal Details
- Family of 5: 2 adults + 3 teenagers
- Dinners served: typically 4–5 people
- Frequency: 2 drop-offs per week (not Fridays)
- Ideal days: Monday + Wednesday or Thursday
- Drop format: family is open to receiving 3 nights of dinners on a single drop-off day (with clear storage/reheating guidance)
- Meal structure:
- Salad + main
- Lean protein + 1–2 vegetables
- Include complex carbohydrates when appropriate (health-focused)
- Preferences:
- High-protein options are essential
- No desserts
- Foods must be reheat-friendly
- Family is open to light finishing at home (example: chef preps a marinated steak and provides grilling instructions)
Ideally, the chef will begin by cooking in the home a few times to dial in preferences, portions, and kitchen flow—then transition to a primarily drop-off model.
Responsibilities
- Plan and execute health-focused weekly dinner menus (lean proteins, vegetables, complex carbs)
- Shop for ingredients and manage receipts
- Prepare meals for drop-off, packaged and labeled for freshness and reheating
- Provide clear cooking/reheating instructions for each dish
- Maintain high standards for food safety and cleanliness
- Communicate proactively about menu options, dietary preferences, and any substitutions
- Operate with excellent discretion and professionalism at all times
Compensation
- $75–$90/hour (DOE)
- Plus cost of ingredients (reimbursed)
Requirements
- Proven experience as a personal chef or high-level meal-prep chef (athlete/performance clientele is a strong bonus)
- Strong ability to execute high-protein, nutrient-dense meals that still taste great
- Exceptionally organized and reliable with timing for prep + drop-offs
- Privacy and discretion are non-negotiable
- No smoking or vaping
- Must be willing to undergo an in-depth background investigation
- Must provide stellar references
What “Great” Looks Like
- Food is consistently delicious, clean, and aligned with health goals
- Packaging is neat, labeled, and reheats beautifully
- Communication is clear, calm, and proactive
