A new era of luxury hospitality is coming to Napa. Opening this year, Lewis Cellars will build on its legacy, now with a reimagined estate and a world-class culinary program led by our MICHELIN-Starred Executive Chef. This is more than just a new tasting room—it's an opportunity to shape something extraordinary at a destination where handcrafted wines meet exceptional service.

As we prepare to unveil this incredible property, we seek passionate professionals to be part of the journey—bringing warmth, expertise, and a commitment to providing unparalleled customer service. If you’re passionate about hospitality, fine wine, and creating unforgettable guest experiences, this is your chance to be part of something truly special.

We are seeking a Senior Sous Chef to be a key leader in establishing our elevated culinary program. This is a unique, hands-on opportunity for a passionate and experienced chef to play a pivotal role in a dynamic kitchen, crafting exceptional food pairings that enhance our wine-tasting experiences. In this position, you will work closely with the Winery Chef to oversee kitchen operations, uphold the highest standards of food quality, and manage kitchen staff. This role blends both administrative and hands-on culinary responsibilities to ensure seamless kitchen operations and an exceptional dining experience.  

This full-time role requires a flexible schedule, including weekends and holidays, and the ability to work evening shifts as needed. The target start date for this position is mid-March to early April.

• Assist the Winery Chef in the successful launch and seamless management of kitchen operations, ensuring excellence in food preparation, cooking, and presentation
• Support the hiring process for the tasting room team, from interviews to creating a welcoming onboarding experience
• Collaborate closely with the Winery Chef to execute a refined culinary program and develop menus
• Supervise kitchen staff, maintaining strict adherence to food safety, hygiene, and sanitation standards
• Oversee kitchen inventory, procurement, and cost control measures to maximize efficiency and minimize waste
• Conduct regular taste tests and quality assessments to refine dishes and maintain flavor integrity
• Innovate and introduce creative new recipes, plating techniques, and presentation styles
• Ensure seasonal, fresh, and high-quality ingredients are used in all dishes
• Enforce regulations and comply with food safety procedures (e.g., HACCP guidelines)
• Ensure proper maintenance and cleanliness of kitchen equipment while monitoring food preparation to ensure timely service
• Maintain accurate records for audits and inspections
• Assist in scheduling and assigning kitchen duties to optimize workflow
• Provide mentorship, training, and guidance to kitchen staff while fostering a collaborative and high-performing work environment
• Conduct performance reviews and address any staff issues or concerns

• 4 – 6 years of fine dining culinary experience; MICHELIN restaurant experience preferred
• Minimum 1 year of management experience and ability to train staff
• Culinary degree required
• Food costing experience and basic math skills
• Understanding of proper use of major kitchen equipment, including stoves, refrigeration, slicers, and knives
• Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Awareness of local, state, and federal health and sanitation laws
• Teamwork-oriented and have a calm, approachable demeanor
• Food and beverage knowledge, and a commitment to quality service
• Demonstrated strong ability to work well under pressure
• Strong leadership skills and can establish direction, and execute appropriate logistical processes
• Comfortable in dealing with guests and purveyors daily
• Proficient in menu design and cost control
• Exceptional attention to detail while working in a high-energy and demanding environment
• Superb time management and organizational skills

Pay Range: $75,000 - $85,000 base salary and may include a discretionary bonus. Final compensation is dependent upon skills and experience. 

• Thriving Wellness Community: Access to top-notch medical coverage comprehensive vision and dental plans, and a 401k with match eligibility to secure your financial future and including: 
  • 24/7 online physician consultations 
  • virtual mental health resources 
  • life coaching 
  • engaging employee community groups 
  • cash rewards for healthy habits and fitness reimbursements 
  • library of on-demand fitness videos 
• Career Advancement Opportunities: Unlock your potential with clear paths for career progression and internal mobility across our diverse family of brands and business units. 
• Focused Learning and Development: Grow as a leader with our dedicated Learning and Organizational Development department, offering extensive resources like People Manager and leadership training, webinars, and eLearning courses. 
• Empowering Mentorship Program: Connect with colleagues through our company-wide mentorship program to share goals, overcome challenges, and drive your career forward. 
• Continuous Improvement Training: Participate in training that empowers all employees to learn and implement concepts that drive significant, positive change in the workplace. 
• Building a Healthy Society: We focus on improving the social determinants of a healthy society-quality education and medical care, economic mobility, and a healthy environment-to help build thriving communities. Wonderful CSR
• Giving Back to the Community: Make a difference with Wonderful Giving, allowing you to allocate company-provided funds to up to three charities of your choice, and join Wonderful Neighbor to contribute to group service projects within our local communities. 

As part of The Wonderful Wines portfolio—alongside JUSTIN Vineyards & Winery and Landmark Vineyards—Lewis Cellars is a luxury Napa Valley winery specializing in bold, opulent reds and seductive Chardonnays. The winery emphasizes the importance of the journey from grape to glass, crafting world-class wines that are unmistakably Lewis. Offering more than 30 years of excellence, Lewis Cellars captures the attention of in-the-know wine connoisseurs, having been named Wine Spectator’s Wine of the Year in 2016 for its Cabernet Sauvignon. Discover Lewis at its new Napa Valley estate, opening soon in the historic Stags Leap District on the Silverado Trail, offering sweeping views and a singular, lavish tasting experience. Lewis wines can also be found at LewisCellars.com or through select retailers, fine wine shops, and restaurants. Lewis Insiders are the first to receive access and updates about the latest releases and estate events. To learn more or become an Insider, visit LewisCellars.com, LewisInsiders.com or explore our Corporate Social Responsibility work at csr.wonderful.com/.

The Wonderful Company is an Equality Opportunity Employer that provides opportunities for advancement. We are committed to creating a diverse workforce that embodies a deep culture of acceptance, equity, and inclusion. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, age, protected veteran status, or other protected categories.

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