Fulltime Italian Chef Jobs in Virginia (NOW HIRING)

Help Deliver the Kalahari Experience
At Kalahari Resorts & Conventions, we don't just create vacations-we craft unforgettable experiences. Home to America's Largest Indoor Waterparks, our African-inspired resorts offer world-class dining, luxurious spas, thrilling entertainment, and cutting-edge convention centers that redefine hospitality.
But we're more than a resort. As a family-owned company, our Promise is simple: Lead with Love. This means caring deeply for our guests, associates, and communities-treating people like family, giving back generously, and creating spaces where everyone feels valued.
Through our partnership with charity: water, we're also committed to bringing clean water to one million people in Africa.
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is making waves in the Mid-Atlantic with our newest location in Spotsylvania, Virginia, expected to open late 2026. Our fifth resort will feature over 175,000 square feet of indoor waterpark fun, 900 family-friendly suites, and a massive convention center.
Sous Chef
At our newest resort destination in Virginia, we're not just opening a property-we're creating an experience. We're seeking a dynamic, hands-on Sous Chef to play a key leadership role in launching and elevating our culinary program from day one. This is a rare opportunity to assist the Head Chef in shaping the culture, standards, and guest experience of a brand-new resort.
A full list of our concepts, each needing a Sous Chef, includes:

• Double Cut Steak House - Our signature steakhouse serving bold flavors.

• B-LUX Grill & Bar - Deliciously unique burgers and shakes handcrafted from scratch.

• Sortino's Italian Kitchen - A modern, elevated Italian restaurant and bar.

• Cinco Niño's - A friendly Tex-Mex-inspired outlet and tequila bar featuring sizzle and classic flavors

As a key culinary leader in a new opening, the Sous Chef will play an essential role in building and leading the kitchen team by hiring, training, executing menus, and establishing operational standards that drive long-term success. This role leads with love by creating a culture rooted in respect, support, and accountability-investing in team development through hands-on mentorship, coaching, and collaboration while fostering an environment where creativity, pride, and excellence can thrive.
These positions are scheduled to begin in mid-September to October.
We're taking our time to find the right chef-a visionary who leads with both creativity and humility. This process will include discovery calls, casual conversations, and in-person interviews as we get closer to launch.
Salary Range - $60k - $70k
Key Responsibilities

• Support daily kitchen operations by leading culinary team members, ensuring food quality, consistency, and efficient execution during service.
• Train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff while fostering a culture of accountability, teamwork, and guest-focused hospitality.
• Assist with inventory, ordering, scheduling, and maintaining sanitation and food safety standards.
• Partner with the Executive Chef on menu execution, operational standards, and overall kitchen performance

What We're Looking For

• 3-5 years of culinary leadership experience in a high-volume, upscale, steakhouse, supper club, or hospitality-driven environment preferred.
• Proven ability to lead, train, and motivate kitchen teams in a fast-paced setting while maintaining high culinary and sanitation standards.
• Strong knowledge of food preparation, inventory management, kitchen operations, and food safety regulations.
• Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays, with excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.

A Sampling of Our Benefits
Our team enjoys a comprehensive benefits package, including:

• Career growth opportunities with promotion from within

• 401(k) matching, paid time off, and holiday compensation

• Health, dental, and vision coverage for full-time associates

• Employee appreciation events, discounts, and perks at all resorts

• Education assistance programs to help advance your career

Be Part of Something Extraordinary
At Kalahari, we believe the best leaders Lead with Love-because love builds trust, inspires growth, and creates experiences that last a lifetime. That's why we're proud to be recognized by Forbes as one of America's Best Midsize Employers, America's Best Employers for Women, and by USA TODAY as the #1 Best Indoor Water Park.
Here, careers thrive, innovation is encouraged, and every day brings new opportunities to create meaningful moments. Whether you're delivering guest service, crafting memorable meals, or leading a team, your work makes a real impact.
| Wisconsin Dells, WI | Sandusky, OH | Pocono Manor, PA | Round Rock, TX | Spotsylvania County, VA |
Kalahari Resorts & Conventions is an Equal Opportunity Employer.