Photo of Yakima Convention Center, Yakima, CA

Executive Chef 1

Yakima Convention Center

10 N 8th St
Yakima, CA 98901

Convention Center
Managed By Sodexo Live!

401K Match, Medical, Dental, Vision, Vacation Pay and Sick Pay

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members.
Compensation: $90,000 to $95,000 per year, Full-Time

We are seeking an experienced Executive Chef 1 for the Yakima Convention & Event Center located in Yakima, WA.

Job Overview:

As an Executive Chef 1 at Sodexo Live!, you will oversee all culinary operations at your venue, ensuring excellence in food quality, safety, and team performance. You'll collaborate closely with the General Manager, and other culinary leaders to deliver exceptional guest experiences through well-executed menus and efficient kitchen management. This role is ideal for a hands-on chef with strong leadership skills and a commitment to operational excellence.

Essential Responsibilities:

  • Oversee daily food production, including preparation and execution across event spaces.
  • Supervise and support sous chefs and line cooks, fostering a collaborative and efficient kitchen environment.
  • Execute seasonal and client-driven menus, ensuring consistency in taste, presentation, and portioning.
  • Maintain compliance with Sodexo Live! Culinary Standards, including food safety, sanitation, and recipe adherence.
  • Monitor inventory levels, assist with ordering, and support cost control initiatives.
  • Participate in training programs focused on culinary techniques, safety, and operational procedures.

Qualifications/Skills:

  • Experience as an Executive Chef or Executive Sous Chef in high-volume or premium hospitality settings.
  • Experience in menu development, cost control, and kitchen operations.
  • Ability to adapt to guest preferences, dietary needs, and emerging food trends.
  • Strong plating and presentation skills for upscale dining or event catering.
  • Skilled in team building, conflict resolution, and performance management.
  • In depth knowledge of culinary techniques, food safety regulations, and kitchen equipment.
  • Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
  • Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience preferred. 

Other Requirements:

  • Able to work effectively and safely while subject to wet floors, temperature extremes and excessive noise; must be able to lift up to 50 pounds in weight; must be able to maneuver in an often tightly-quartered environment.
  • Hours may be extended or irregular to include nights, weekends and holidays.

Why Join Sodexo Live!?

At Sodexo Live!, we're proud to be experience makers, creating unforgettable moments for people across a wide range of industries and events. We bring that same commitment to our team members by offering a comprehensive benefits package that begins on day one, additional benefits include:

  • Health Savings and Flexible Spending Accounts
  • Life and Disability Insurance
  • Accident, Critical Illness, and Hospital Indemnity Coverage
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Adoption Assistance

Thank you for expressing interest in employment with Sodexo Live!. While only those candidates considered for this position will be contacted, your resume will remain on file for 90 days.

Sodexo Live! is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, religion, color, national origin, sex, age, genetic information, status as a protected veteran or status as a qualified individual with a disability, or any other characteristic protected by applicable Federal, State or Local law.

Posted September 21, 2026

About Yakima Convention Center

With a new 18,000 square foot addition, the Yakima Convention & Event Center is now 89,000 square feet in size, making it the fourth largest convention and event center in Washington state. The Yakima Convention & Event Center is conveniently located. Driving distance is less than 200 miles from Seattle, Portland, and Spokane so we’re accessible for attendees from all corners of the Northwest. In addition to location, our outstanding facilities, community hospitality and the exceptional team make Yakima the ideal location for events.

About Sodexo Live!

Why people like to work here

At Sodexo Live!, we take pride in crafting exceptional events at the most prestigious venues on the planet and creating lasting memories for fans, visitors, guests and team members. Working with Sodexo Live! is more than a job; it's a chance to be part of something greater. Here, you'll build a career where 'everyday' is anything but normal.

Our experiences are unique, and so are our people. Bring your personality, your background and your desire to delight others. In return, we'll give you all you need to thrive. After giving it all, you'll return home knowing that you've played your part in creating a truly unforgettable moment.

Awards

  • 2022 Forbes Best Employer for Diversity
  • 2022 Front Office Sports Best Employers in Sports
  • 2022 Disability Equality Index (DEI) Perfect Score

About the management team

Sodexo Live!’s dedication and progressive spirit starts at the top. Our leaders’ combined industry experience strengthens the entire Sodexo Live! team and fosters a supportive space to create exceptional moments and dynamic growth.

About Sodexo USA


Your Success is Our Mission


We listen, learn and bring our experience to create tailored food and facilities management services unique to your business needs. From enhancing employee well-being through sustainable, nutritious and delicious food offerings to optimizing your facilities for peak efficiency and cleanliness, your goals are at the center of our solutions.

We are the global leader in sustainable food and valued experiences at every moment in life: learn, work, heal and play. We believe in creating a better day for everyone to build a better life for all.

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