Job Description

Chef - Solstice Wood Fire Cafe

Do you seek a thriving, beloved, and established restaurant committed to food quality, a healthy culture, and professional balance? Are you passionate about the art of pizza, the bounty of local produce, and the reward of mentoring a dedicated team?

Position:

Solstice Wood Fire Cafe is seeking a business-minded Chef to lead our culinary team. We are looking for a leader who pairs culinary excellence with a deep understanding of restaurant economics and efficiencies, and the heart and skills for managing staff and developing talent.

Responsibilities:

The Chef is responsible for all culinary operations, including staff management, scheduling, food sourcing & purchasing, menu planning, cost controls, sanitation & essential kitchen maintenance. The Chef ensures that company-driven goals are met and leads Solstice’s culinary standards, serving as our kitchen team's primary leader, communicator, and coordinator. The Chef models and acts in accordance with Solstice's guiding principles and core values, and approaches challenges with an open-minded, entrepreneurial spirit. 

We’re a special place, and we seek a leader who will be respected by staff and who can communicate clear expectations and accountabilities while embodying the values of Solstice. This is a solid fit for a Chef who can handle financial goals, establish strong and respectful relationships with all staff, collaborate creatively with other departments, and deliver excellent food made in a happy and healthy environment. 

Qualification Requirements: 

• A college or culinary school degree is recommended. Additional certifications in food and beverage are desirable
• 4+ years of experience as either a Chef / Kitchen Manager or a similar role
• Proficient in the following dimensions of restaurant functions: food planning and preparation, purchasing, sanitation, security, equipment, and sustainable product sourcing 
• Expertise in implementing company policies and procedures, personnel management, recordkeeping, and preparation of reports
• Knowledge of computers, restaurant software (MS Excel, Google Drive, POS systems, Homebase or equivalent) 
• Experience with kitchen equipment (gas stove, convection ovens, wood-fired stove, mixing equipment & refrigeration)
• Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, proportions, labor, and food COGS percentages using simple algebra
• Must be 21 years of age or older. 
• Must possess a valid driver's license, have and maintain a clean driving record. 
• Must be eligible to work in the United States

Compensation & Benefits:

• Salary: Competitive salary of $68,000 – $78,000, dependent on experience. Incentives are part of the compensation package. 
• Health & Wellness: Regence Health Insurance and Employee Assistance Program (after 60 days).
• Future Planning: 401k with employer matching contribution (after one year).
• Paid Time Off: Generous Vacation and Medical PTO.
• Growth: Continued education, team-building retreats, and community celebrations.
• Perks: Food and beverage benefits.

How to Apply:

Candidates may request a complete job description and apply for the Chef position through this platform, or by applying on our website at solsticehoodriver.com. Please let us know why you believe you would be a great fit at Solstice, and include references. Interviews will be scheduled for qualified candidates in early-mid February 2026. 

About Solstice:

Solstice is an independently owned restaurant at the Hood River waterfront. Our menu features artisan wood-fired pizzas, seasonal salads and entrees, inventive cocktails, local wine, and beer. We proudly source locally grown and foraged ingredients when possible, and much of our menu is made from scratch, including our slow-fermented pizza dough, seasonal pasta, sausage, and more! Solstice has been in business for 19 years and has seen rewarding growth year after year. On average, our staff have been with the company for 3-5 years, and we attribute this to the positive, healthy work environment and culture we have created. Solstice goes beyond the plate to support local community causes and endeavors. Our restaurant is a high-volume eatery in which we do our best to serve food with integrity while feeding the masses. 

We look forward to receiving your application. Thank you.

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