Lead Chef

Position: Lead Chef Employment Type: Full-time, on-siteLocation: Sansara Surf & Yoga Resort – Cambutal, PanamaSchedule: 6 days per week, with 1 additional day off provided once per monthStart Date: November, 2026

Role & Expectations
As Lead Chef, your role extends beyond cooking; you will be setting the tone and flow for the entire evening team. Key responsibilities include:
• Leadership & Direction – Guide the kitchen team with clarity, professionalism, and respect to create a harmonious and efficient work environment.• Organization & Flow – Implement systems for efficiency, ensuring prep and sous chefs have clear mise en place lists and direction.• Consistency – During retreat season (January–May), service is centered around back-to-back retreats, typically serving ~30 guests in one evening service. Strict adherence to the designated menus ensures smooth prep and seamless execution.• Creativity & Inspiration – During non-retreat weeks, maintain the same nightly menu with the addition of a Saturday Chef’s Night — an opportunity to showcase creativity and bring fun to the kitchen while maintaining excellence.• Professional Standards – As head of the kitchen, punctuality and presence are essential. The Lead Chef sets the standard by being early, prepared, and fully engaged in leading the team.

Why This Role Matters
At Sansara, food is more than nourishment — it’s an essential part of the guest experience and a reflection of our values. We’ve built an incredible culinary framework: dishes that are healthy, vibrant, and flavor-forward, designed to fuel surf sessions, yoga practices, and days of adventure.
The Lead Chef ensures this vision comes alive each evening. With your leadership, the kitchen becomes a place of creativity, flow, and care. Your role is central to maintaining the balance between consistency and innovation — delivering meals that not only meet high standards but also leave guests feeling deeply cared for and inspired.
At Sansara, guests remember the meals as much as the sunsets and the waves. As Lead Chef, you play a vital role in creating those memories.

Who You Are
Experienced chef with strong leadership skills and a passion for guiding a team.Organized and calm under pressure, with the ability to keep service flowing smoothly.Creative and inspired by fresh, seasonal ingredients, while also respecting consistency and structure.Professional, punctual, and committed to maintaining high standards in the kitchen.Collaborative, respectful, and able to foster a positive work environment.Flexible and open to feedback, thriving in both busy retreat seasons and slower off-season weeks.Fluent in English; Spanish is a strong advantage.Must hold Panamanian citizenship or valid Panamanian work papers.

What We Offer
Full-time position in a supportive, close-knit team environment.A chance to lead the evening kitchen at one of Panama’s most unique surf and yoga resorts.The opportunity to grow within a mindful, heart-centered hospitality brand.Hands-on experience creating meals that are both nourishing and memorable for our guests.Competitive compensation based on experience, with room for growth.Staff meals provided during shifts.Six-day work week, with one additional day off per month.Housing options may be available upon request.
To Apply:Please with the subject line: Lead Chef Application – [Your Name].Experience is required.Only qualified candidates will be contacted