Job Description

The East Wind Inn is a seaside bed and breakfast in Tenants Harbor, Maine. We are a well-established seasonal inn with a loyal returning guest base. We provide an authentic Maine experience, excellent service, and high-quality food. Our dinner menu features fresh, local seafood and New England favorites made from scratch. Inspired by lobstermen and the beautiful coast, our inviting and relaxing atmosphere allows our guests to live in the moment and enjoy our 'boat to table' fare.

This position is ideal for someone looking to spend the summer working in a beautiful coastal setting with a strong sense of place and seasonality. The Head Chef works alongside a small, dedicated team during service. As Head Chef, you will create and lead a New England seafood bistro-style menu, guiding the kitchen team in delivering a high-quality, memorable dining experience through scratch cooking and thoughtful presentation.

This is a seasonal business, open 6 months of the year. We do approximately 40-80 covers a night. During peak months 60+ hours a week. Kitchen staff ranges from 3-5 (depending on time of year).

What We Offer:

• Competitive seasonal salary ($42–48k based on experience)
• Opportunity for creative menu leadership
• Close collaboration with ownership team
• Beautiful coastal Maine location
• Staff housing
• End-of-season bonus

Key Responsibilities: 

Leadership & Management

- Hire, train, and lead kitchen staff

- Oversee scheduling, prep, and service execution 

Menu & Food Program

- Create and update dinner, bar, and event menus

- Develop seasonal offerings and specials

Operations

- Manage ordering, inventory, and food costs

- Maintain kitchen organization and cleanliness

- Ensure food safety standards are upheld

Service

- Work alongside the team to execute high-quality dishes during service

Requirements:

• Minimum of 10 years kitchen experience and minimum of 5 years as a chef
• Experience with seafood
• Experience training kitchen staff in use of kitchen tools, equipment, and appliances.
• Knowledge of kitchen and food safety and ability to oversee and train staff in kitchen and food safety.
• This position must wear non-skid, non-slip, closed-toe shoes, and be able to lift 50 pounds.
• Willing to work 60+ hours or more a week, including holidays, mornings, nights and/or weekends.
• Eager to provide guests with 5-star dining experience.
• Team-oriented, hardworking, positive and have a good attitude.
• Punctual and arrive on time to work.
• Previous experience preparing seafood (cracking lobsters, shucking oysters) a plus.

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