Job Description
Charter Manufacturing is a fourth-generation family-owned business where our will to grow drives us to do it better. Join the team and become part of our family! Private Railcar Chef Luxury Hospitality | Fine Dining | Travel-Based Role Bring world-class culinary experiences to life-on the rails. The
Private Railcar Chef plays a pivotal role in delivering an exceptional, five-star onboard experience aboard Charter's Private Railcars. This unique position blends fine dining culinary expertise with luxury hospitality, operations collaboration, and hands-on railcar stewardship. The Chef is responsible for designing and executing elevated, multi-course meals while supporting onboard service, entertainment, logistics, and railcar readiness.
This role is ideal for an experienced, service-driven culinary professional who thrives in a dynamic, travel-based luxury environment and enjoys working independently while leading by example.
Key Responsibilities Culinary & Guest Experience - Lead and execute high-end, multi-course fine dining experiences tailored to guest preferences.
- Design, prepare, and present menus with exceptional attention to detail, quality, and presentation.
- Manage meal planning, provisioning, inventory, and food safety to the highest standards.
- Deliver a personalized, service-driven hospitality experience that consistently exceeds guest expectations.
- Maintain impeccable cleanliness, sanitation, and culinary excellence at all times.
- Demonstrate working knowledge of wines and beverage service.
Operations & Railcar Experience - Oversee onboard entertainment operations and contribute to the overall ambiance and guest experience.
- Ensure seamless coordination between dining service, guest activities, and daily onboard operations.
- Work collaboratively with the Operations Manager on scheduling, logistics, railcar movements, and operational decisions.
- Assist with travel logistics, including planning flights and rental vehicles as needed.
- Support operational readiness through basic mechanical awareness, troubleshooting, and coordination with external service providers.
- Perform and oversee interior and exterior railcar presentation, cleanliness, and upkeep.
- Ensure compliance with all safety standards, procedures, and regulatory requirements.
Leadership & Crew Support - Provide guidance, training, and support to onboard crew members.
- Foster a culture of teamwork, professionalism, and service excellence.
- Lead by example while adhering to all railcar procedures and standards.
- Assist with additional railcar-related duties as directed by management.
Minimum Qualifications - High School Diploma or GED.
- 5+ years of fine dining culinary experience , including menu planning, ordering, and inventory management.
- Prior management or leadership experience.
- Front-of-house and bartending experience.
- Strong professionalism and communication skills, including interaction with Executive Leadership.
- Valid Driver's License and ability to drive rental vehicles while traveling.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Outlook.
- Ability to work irregular hours and travel 20%+ , including trips lasting two to three weeks.
- Physically able to work in varied environments, lift 50-75 lbs (occasionally 100+ lbs), climb ladders, and work at heights up to 8 feet.
- Commitment to safety practices and regulatory compliance.
- Ability to build and maintain strong vendor and service-provider relationships.
Preferred Qualifications - Culinary training or background in fine dining establishments.
- Experience serving diverse group sizes and executing multi-course meals.
- Working knowledge of wine pairings and beverage service.
- Mechanical aptitude and basic maintenance skills.
- Superior customer service and hospitality mindset.
- Ability to work independently in a remote, travel-based environment while exercising strong judgment.
- Experience managing day-to-day operations, inventory, and onboard maintenance.
- Willingness to support off-hours or weekend coordination when required for railcar operations.
We offer comprehensive health, dental, and vision benefits, along with a 401(k) plan that includes employer matching and profit sharing. Additionally, we offer company-paid life insurance, disability coverage, and paid time off (PTO).
Job Tags
Work at office, Remote work, Weekend work