Columbia Hospitality

Chef | Smith Tower

Let’s start off with the most important part – what’s in it for you:

The Perks

• Eligibility of perks is dependent upon job status
• Salary: $77,990 - $82,000 DOE
• Parking Allowance
• Get Paid Daily (Make any day payday)
• Paid Time off & Holiday Pay (Because Balance Matters)
• Benefits - Medical, Dental, Vision, Disability, 401K
• HSA/FSA Plans -with employer contribution
• Values Based Culture (#OMGLIFE)
• Culture Add (Creating Space for Fresh Perspectives)
• Referral Bonus (Get Paid to Recruit)
• Discounted Lodging, Dining, Spa, Golf, and Retail (Yes, Discounted Travel!)
• Employee Assistance Program
• “Columbia Cares” Volunteer Opportunities
• Committee Participation Opportunities (Fun, Philanthropic, Diversity/Equity/Inclusion)
• Task Force Work Opportunities (Grow your career in idyllic locations across the globe)
• Online Learning Platform to Help You Grow!
• Third Party Perks (Including discounts on Pet Insurance, Rental Cars, Movie and Concert Tickets, Theme Park and Attractions & so much more)

Our Commitment to you:

“People never forget how you made them feel.” Maya Angelou’s famous statement serves as a rallying cry throughout Columbia Hospitality and fuels our collective drive - and success.

Our people are our purpose, and our brand is our people. We seek extraordinary individuals who drive our brand promise of Creating Exceptional Experiences. We are a people-first organization, ignited from the inside to succeed on the outside. We are a tight-knit, inclusive, values-driven team and we trust one another to have each other’s backs. We show up every day with open hearts, an inclusive mindset, and a genuine respect for those around us. We have fun, grow together, and strive to leave a positive lasting impression on everyone we meet.

Chef

At Smith Tower Observatory and Bar, the Chef is the culinary leader responsible for driving kitchen excellence across all service areas—including daily operations, special events, and bespoke catering experiences. In partnership with senior leadership, the Chef oversees menu development, team performance, and kitchen operations, ensuring each guest encounter reflects quality, creativity, and consistency. This role champions a culture of hospitality, safety, and innovation, while delivering elevated dining experiences that define the Smith Tower standard.

What’s you’ll do:

THE BRASS TACKS

• Leads the recruitment, onboarding, and continuous development of the culinary team, cultivating a high-performing culture grounded in accountability, creativity, and excellence.
• Oversees all aspects of daily kitchen operations, ensuring efficiency, consistency, and adherence to food safety and quality standards.
• Partners closely with the Senion Operations Manager and Sales and Events Manager to execute special events/banquets, private events, and catered experiences with precision and innovation.
• Participates in daily event briefings and contract reviews to ensure alignment and flawless execution across departments.
• Facilitates monthly culinary team meetings to share updates, celebrate achievements, and drive engagement.
• Drives operational success through strong collaboration with the greater Food & Beverage team, ensuring an elevated guest experience that surpasses expectations.
• Champions a safe and well-maintained work environment by upholding safety protocols and swiftly addressing any hazards or equipment concerns.
• Develops and maintains all culinary menus in alignment with brand standards, obtaining final approval from the senior leadership.
• Co-creates unique event concepts and themed menus, providing culinary leadership to support the planning and execution of bespoke experiences.
• Maintains clear and proactive communication across departments, ensuring alignment and awareness of changes, challenges, or guest needs.
• Responds professionally and promptly to guest, client, or team feedback, fostering positive relationships and reinforcing service excellence.
• Upholds security standards and operational integrity, protecting company assets and proprietary information.
• Reviews and audits kitchen team payroll daily for accuracy and compliance.
• Conducts monthly food and beverage inventories, maintaining cost control and accountability.
• Embodies a service-forward mindset, ensuring every team member delivers with responsiveness, enthusiasm, and follow-through.
• Completes administrative duties related to the position with precision, timeliness, and attention to detail.
• Strives to innovate and elevate culinary offerings, maintaining a relentless focus on quality and guest satisfaction.
• Exemplifies Columbia Hospitality’s core values and mission through leadership, service, and everyday interactions.
• Other Duties as assigned by Management

THE NITTY GRITTY

• Experience: Culinary arts degree or equivalent training, with at least 7 years in the industry and 2+ years in a management role within a comparable environment.
• Communication Skills: Strong written and verbal communication skills to address sensitive inquiries and operational needs.
• Regulatory Knowledge: Proficiency in managing according to employment and industry-relevant laws.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Demonstrated conflict management and negotiation abilities in a dynamic work environment.
• Technical Proficiency: Familiarity with Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, and other relevant software.
• Interpersonal Skills: Professional, enthusiastic demeanor with a focus on team engagement and client satisfaction.
• Attention to Detail: Exceptional organizational skills with a reliable and punctual work ethic.
• Certification: Necessary State Food Handler’s License(s) and WA State MAST Permit

Don’t meet every single requirement? At Columbia Hospitality we are dedicated to building a diverse, inclusive, and authentic workplace, so if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway. You may just be the right candidate for this or other roles.

The Fine Print

Columbia Hospitality, Inc. is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive environment without regard to age, race, color, ancestry, national origin, religion, disability, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, or any other protected status in accordance with applicable law. We strive for excellence in every position within the company and select the most qualified people who embrace our service philosophy and these values.

Accountability | Creativity | Enthusiasm | Honesty | Inclusion | Respect

Columbia Hospitality is a national management and consulting company with more than 25 years of experience in creating hospitality solutions and delivering exceptional experiences. Our portfolio includes award-winning hotels and resorts, premier residential communities, restaurants and bars, private and public golf clubs, conference centers, and distinctive venues. Columbia