Position Title: Culinary Creative

Reports To: Executive Chef / General Manager

FLSA Status: Full-Time / Part-Time, Non-Exempt

The Role

The Culinary Creative is a hands-on member of the Shepherd’s Run culinary team, supporting the preparation, execution, and presentation of all food offerings across the property. This role combines creativity, precision, and teamwork to elevate the guest experience through every plate served.

The Culinary Creative contributes to the development and refinement of menus, assists in kitchen operations, and upholds the highest standards of hospitality and quality that define Shepherd’s Run. This position is ideal for individuals passionate about food, wine, and creating memorable guest experiences.

Responsibilities

Culinary Execution

• Prepare, plate, and finish food for hotel guests, wine bar service, and small private events (corporate lunches, birthdays, showers, rehearsal dinners, etc.).
• Execute recipes consistently to meet brand standards for quality, taste, and presentation.
• Support menu rollouts, seasonal offerings, and event-specific dishes in collaboration with the Executive Chef.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient workstation at all times.

Kitchen Operations

• Participate in daily kitchen prep, cleaning, dishwashing, and restocking duties.
• Assist with receiving, labeling, and rotating inventory following FIFO standards.
• Support kitchen setup and breakdown for breakfast, events, and service periods.
• Follow all food safety, sanitation, and health department regulations.

Collaboration & Growth

• Work closely with the Executive Chef and culinary team to support menu testing and refinement.
• Contribute ideas for improving efficiency, service flow, and presentation.
• Assist with the development of systems and processes that elevate Shepherd’s Run’s culinary operations.
• Model a positive, team-first attitude and willingness to jump into any kitchen need.

Guest Experience

• Take pride in presentation and consistency, ensuring every dish aligns with Shepherd’s Run standards.
• Support events and wine tastings by providing culinary service that enhances the guest journey.
• Represent Shepherd’s Run with professionalism, enthusiasm, and attention to detail.

Qualifications

• Previous experience as a line cook, prep cook, or similar kitchen position.
• Strong interest in food, wine, and hospitality.
• Team-oriented with excellent communication and reliability.
• Positive attitude and ability to thrive in a fast-paced, evolving environment.
• Ability to lift up to 40 lbs and stand for extended periods.
• Flexible availability including weekends and holidays.

Compensation & Benefits

• Hourly wage of $20/hr. plus pooled tips shared by all property staff.
• Full-time or Part-time schedule.
• Opportunity for advancement as the Shepherd’s Run culinary program grows.
• Work within a unique setting that combines hospitality, wine, events, and culture.
• Employee discounts across Shepherd’s Run experiences and offerings.
• Access to healthcare and 401k benefits.

Working Conditions & Physical Requirements

• Ability to stand/walk for extended periods; bend, reach, and lift/carry up to 40 lbs as needed.
• Comfortable working in a fast-paced kitchen environment with exposure to heat, cleaning agents, and variable conditions.
• Ability to safely operate kitchen equipment and handle knives, smallwares, and cleaning materials.

Schedule & Availability

• Variable schedule including early mornings, evenings, weekends, and holidays aligned to business needs and events.
• Reliable attendance and readiness for scheduled shifts are essential.

Certifications & Compliance

• Must comply with all state and federal safety regulations and property standards.
• Food Handler certification preferred; ServSafe certification a plus.
• Valid driver’s license preferred but not required.

Appearance & Conduct

• Adherence to Shepherd’s Run appearance and uniform standards.
• Professional demeanor, positive attitude, and respect for guests, colleagues, and property.

Technology & Systems

• Familiarity with POS, inventory, and scheduling systems preferred.
• Ability to follow checklists and digital prep lists provided by management.

Employment Practices

• Shepherd’s Run is an Equal Opportunity Employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status, or any other protected status.
• Employment is at-will and this description is not a contract. Duties and responsibilities may be modified at any time based on business needs.
• Offers of employment may be contingent upon successful completion of reference and background checks, as applicable.

Other Duties

• This description is not exhaustive. Team members may be asked to perform additional duties to support the success of Shepherd’s Run.

Shepherd’s Run Commitment

All team members are expected to embody Shepherd’s Run’s culture of hospitality, excellence, and teamwork. The Culinary Creative plays a key role in ensuring every culinary touchpoint reflects the care, creativity, and craftsmanship of the estate.

Acknowledgment

I have read and understand the essential functions and expectations of this position. I understand that Shepherd’s Run may amend this description as business needs evolve.