Ready to join a world-class culinary team in the heart of the Alaska wild coast? Tutka Bay Lodge – part of the Within The Wild Adventure Company – is seeking an accomplished LEAD CHEF to lead our culinary program at our remote, luxury property near Homer, Alaska. In this prestigious role, you’ll be at the center of our guest experience, creating memorable dining moments each day in a setting that combines rustic adventure with gourmet excellence. As Chef, you will oversee daily plated breakfast and lunch service, multi-course dinners, and a curated appetizer hour each evening – delighting guests with Alaska-inspired cuisine. You’ll also engage directly with visitors by leading a complimentary afternoon cooking class every day, sharing your knowledge and passion in a fun, intimate setting.
What’s in it for you? This position offers an unparalleled lifestyle and creative input. You’ll have a strong team of peers in Chefs Mandy Dixon, Kirsten Dixon and Tim Crockett who support the lodge, guiding you to craft farm-to-table menus that highlight organic produce and fresh Alaska seafood straight from the source, all while upholding our high culinary standards. The season begins around April 15, with potential for a year-round role possibilities to discuss. We provide comfortable on-site housing and meals, so you can focus on your craft and immerse yourself in the stunning wilderness right outside your door.
We’re looking for a seasoned chef with strong leadership skills who can mentor a small kitchen team and uphold our high quality. Experience with seafood fabrication (breaking down whole fish, octopus, etc.) is a big plus, as is a flair for teaching and engaging guests through food. If you’re excited to deliver award-winning cuisine in a remote, adventure-filled environment, we want to hear from you! Come lead our culinary adventures at Tutka Bay Lodge and help create unforgettable experiences in the Last Frontier.
Here are the details:
Lead Chef – Tutka Bay Lodge
Within the Wild Adventure Company
Position Overview
The Lead Chef at Tutka Bay Lodge is a key member of our culinary leadership team, responsible for guiding the daily operations of our kitchen with professionalism, creativity, and warmth. This role supports and uplifts our small culinary team—chefs and dishwashers alike—while ensuring that every meal reflects the spirit of Tutka Bay’s unique, foraged, and place-based cuisine.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary Leadership & Menu Development
Plan seasonal and daily menus collaboratively with the chef team, incorporating foraged ingredients and the culinary identity of Tutka Bay Lodge.
Lead by example in culinary technique, preparation, presentation, and professionalism.
Inspire the team by championing our commitment to creativity, sustainability, and Alaska’s wild foods.
Team Management & Communication
Provide daily leadership and ongoing support to all kitchen staff, including chefs and dishwashers.
Serve as a liaison between the culinary team and lodge managers to ensure smooth, clear communication across departments.
Conduct regular culinary team meetings to align on menu planning, service flow, responsibilities, and lodge culture.
Uphold and model the values, culture, and standards of Tutka Bay Lodge at all times.
Operations & Food Ordering
Manage food ordering, inventory, and vendor relationships to maintain quality, minimize waste, and support lodge operational needs.
Ensure all food preparation and storage adhere to health and safety standards.
Guest Engagement
Communicate with guests in a positive, friendly, and knowledgeable manner during meals, cooking classes, foraging experiences, and lodge events.
Represent Tutka Bay Lodge with professionalism, authenticity, and kindness.
Requirements
Proven culinary experience in a leadership role.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to inspire and mentor a diverse team.
A passion for foraging, sustainability, and unique regional cuisine.
Professional, respectful demeanor aligned with the culture and values of Tutka Bay Lodge.
The Ideal Candidate
You are collaborative, calm under pressure, and genuinely excited about cooking in a wild, remote, and inspiring environment. You lead with kindness, creativity, and integrity—and you’re eager to elevate both your team and the guest experience through exceptional, meaningful food.