Corporate Event Chef Lead

Overview

We're seeking an engaging, confident Lead Events Chef to serve as the face and soul of Culinary Artistas for corporate cooking classes and teen events in San Francisco. Starting in a supporting role with room to grow, you’ll create memorable, high-energy culinary experiences while teaching approachable cooking techniques to adults—and occasionally youth. Our ideal candidate is a natural host—warm, highly hospitable, proactive, and detail-oriented—who thrives on problem-solving and sharing food knowledge in a way that feels fun, inclusive, and polished. As a Lead Events Chef, you’ll represent the Culinary Artistas brand, ensuring every experience is exceptional and leaves guests feeling connected, inspired, and well-fed.

Job Title:

Corporate Event Chef Lead

Location:

San Francisco, CA

Employment Type:

Part Time

Working Hours:

Part-Time. Flexible shifts are based on event bookings, primarily weekday afternoon/evenings and weekend days. A minimum of 2 shifts per month is required, with shifts typically running 6-8 hours.

Duration:

Apply Now

JOB DESCRIPTION

Responsibilities 

On-Site Adult Events: ‍

This role begins in a supporting capacity, with a clear pathway to leading corporate team-building cooking classes for groups of 10–80 participants. As you grow in the role, you’ll take on increasing ownership of the full event experience.‍

Phase 1: Event Chef Assistant

  • Assist with pre-event preparation and kitchen coordination
  • Assist with execution of mise en place for guest cooking stations and Culinary Artistas–prepared items
  • Set up ingredients, equipment, and tools for the main recipe and any add-on experiences (cocktail making, dessert stations, etc.)
  • Assist with prep of all Artistas-made components (appetizers, side dishes, platters, and dessert)
  • Support delegation and coordination of kitchen support staff
  • Lead beverage table setup for hosted beverage packages
  • Assist with food service and kitchen flow during events
  • Assist with guest engagement and pacing to ensure a smooth, high-energy event
  • Help manage dietary restrictions and special requests with accuracy and care
  • Uphold food safety standards and assist in maintaining a clean, organized kitchen‍

Phase 2: Lead Event Chef

  • Lead corporate team-building cooking classes from start to finish
  • Own pre-event planning, kitchen setup, and execution
  • Lead with execution of mise en place for guest cooking stations and Culinary Artistas–prepared items
  • Lead preparation of all Artistas-made components (appetizers, side dishes, platters, and dessert)
  • Lead and delegate kitchen support staff with confidence
  • Act as the primary on-site point of contact for the client, hosting a “pre-event touchbase” upon arrival
  • Lead culinary instruction using our pre-developed recipes, engaging guests with clear demonstrations and approachable techniques
  • Greet guests upon arrival and support client touchpoints before the event begins
  • Deliver an engaging welcome, including a warm icebreaker, introduction to Culinary Artistas, and clear overview of the event flow
  • Create a polished, welcoming, and high-energy atmosphere throughout the event
  • Take full ownership of dietary restrictions and special requests (critical responsibility)
  • Ensure exceptional food quality, safety, and guest experience at every touchpoi

On-Site Youth Classes & Parties

  • Support teen summer cooking programs (~20 between June - July on weekday & weekend evenings)
  • Teach age-appropriate lessons with safety and engagement in mind
  • Adapt teaching style across age groups (kids, teens, adults)
  • Maintain positive group dynamics and clear communication
  • Optional: weekend culinary birthday parties (ages 4–17)
    ‍

Skills + Experience Required

  • 5+ years professional culinary training or significant industry experience (Culinary school grads/students, personal chefs, instructors, and retired food service professionals welcome)
  • Experience confidently leading and entertaining groups (10–40+)
  • Strong teaching, facilitation, and public-speaking skills
  • Proficiency in Google Workspace and scheduling tools
  • Experience working with diverse age groups (adults and/or youth)
  • COVID-19 vaccination

You Are…

  • A high-energy, engaging host who loves being in front of a group
  • Comfortable problem-solving on the fly—adapting to guest needs, kitchen dynamics, and last-minute changes while keeping the experience seamless and welcoming.
  • Confident, calm, and decisive in fast-paced environments
  • A strong leader who communicates clearly and kindly
  • Extremely reliable and detail-oriented
  • Growth-minded and eager to learn
  • Passionate about food, teaching, and creating meaningful experiences
  • Comfortable representing a brand with warmth and professionalism

Pay 

$25–$30/hour, depending on experience; Eligible for monthly tip pooling based on events worked

‍

Apply Now
Certification badges