Hire a Private Chef in 24h
Premium Private Chef recruitment in Vancouver, Canada. Vetted candidates delivered fast, no upfront fees.




Why Elite Employers Choose Us
For over 20 years, Lighthouse Careers has been the trusted partner for discerning clients seeking exceptional Private Chef professionals. Our rigorous vetting process ensures only the highest caliber candidates.
Rigorous 7-Step Vetting
Background checks, reference verification, and skill assessments
24-Hour Candidate Delivery
Receive your first shortlist within two business days
Success-Fee Model
No upfront costs - you only pay when you hire
Replacement Guarantee
Free replacement if placement doesn't work out
How It Works
Our streamlined process gets you qualified candidates fast.
Share Your Requirements
Tell us about your household or yacht, the role you need filled, and your specific requirements.
Receive Matched Candidates
We search our network and present a shortlist of pre-vetted candidates tailored to your needs.
Interview & Hire
Meet your candidates, conduct interviews, and make your selection with our full support.
Trusted by Industry Leaders
Hear from captains, estate managers, and professionals who have found exceptional talent through Lighthouse Careers.
"I wanted to say a few words of thanks for your all your time and efforts over the past few years. You and your team has always been a massive help in trying to help find us the right candidate for the right job in this ever expanding and delicate industry."

"I've had the pleasure of knowing Milica, and using her recruitment services for many years. Her attention to what I'm looking for in a crew member, fast response and flexibility and understanding of feedback has always impressed me."

"Milica is always my first call when looking for new crew. She helped me get my first command 3 years ago and ever since has supplied me with great candidates for all positions onboard."

"Due to her industry knowledge, great candidates she has provided over the years and great sense of urgency, I decided to appoint Milica's agency to represent our fleet of yachts. It has certainly proved to be a great partnership."

"I have known Milica for over a decade. In that time I have come to value her judgement and advice on Crew Recruitment. She has placed a number of candidates on my commands and she has also helped me secure my dream job!"

"Throughout my 11 years in yachting, I have found Milica to be my go-to agent for jobs. Not only because she has a great reputation in the industry and great boats in her books but also for her care, kindness and professionalism."

About Private Chef Positions
When you decide to hire a Private Chef for your luxury residence, you're investing in culinary excellence that transforms daily dining into extraordinary experiences. A professional Private Chef in Vancouver, Canada brings world-class expertise directly to your home, creating bespoke menus tailored to your family's preferences, dietary requirements, and lifestyle demands. Unlike restaurant chefs, private culinary professionals understand the intimate nature of household service, seamlessly integrating into your daily routine while maintaining the highest standards of discretion and professionalism.
Essential Responsibilities of a Private Chef
An exceptional Private Chef in a luxury household manages far more than meal preparation. Their comprehensive duties include:
- Designing seasonal menus aligned with family preferences and nutritional requirements
- Sourcing premium ingredients from Vancouver's finest markets and specialty purveyors
- Coordinating with household staff including House Managers and service personnel
- Managing kitchen operations, inventory, and budget oversight
- Preparing meals for intimate family dining and large-scale entertaining
- Accommodating last-minute menu changes and dietary restrictions
- Maintaining impeccable kitchen hygiene and food safety standards
Qualifications and Experience to Seek
When evaluating candidates to hire a Private Chef, prioritize professionals with:
- Culinary arts degree from prestigious institutions or equivalent Michelin-starred experience
- 5+ years in private service with verifiable references from ultra-high-net-worth families
- Food safety certifications and knowledge of international dietary customs
- Expertise in multiple cuisines and specialized dietary programs
- Discretion and understanding of confidentiality requirements in private households
- Flexibility to travel between properties and work irregular hours
Vancouver's Culinary Advantage
A Private Chef in Vancouver, Canada benefits from access to exceptional Pacific Northwest ingredients including fresh seafood, seasonal produce from the Fraser Valley, and proximity to world-class wine regions. Vancouver's multicultural culinary scene ensures chefs possess diverse skill sets, while the city's luxury market has cultivated professionals experienced in serving discerning clientele. The region's emphasis on farm-to-table cuisine aligns perfectly with the sophisticated palates of ultra-high-net-worth families seeking authentic, locally-sourced dining experiences in their private residences.
Private Chef Market in Vancouver, Canada
Private Chef Services in Vancouver's Luxury Market
Vancouver's thriving ultra-high-net-worth community creates exceptional demand for elite Private Chef in Vancouver, Canada positions. The city's sophisticated culinary landscape, influenced by Pacific Northwest ingredients and diverse international cuisine, attracts world-class culinary talent to serve discerning families in prestigious neighborhoods like Shaughnessy, West Vancouver, Point Grey, and Whistler retreat properties.
Competition for top-tier private chefs remains intense across Vancouver's luxury residential market. Families seeking to hire Private Chef Vancouver, Canada often compete for candidates with Michelin-starred restaurant experience, specialized dietary expertise, and multilingual capabilities to serve international households.
Compensation and Market Insights
Private chef salaries in Vancouver's UHNW market typically range from CAD $85,000 to CAD $150,000 annually for full-time positions, with senior executive chefs commanding up to CAD $200,000 plus comprehensive benefits. Live-in arrangements often include luxury accommodation, vehicle allowances, and international travel opportunities.
- Premium compensation reflects Vancouver's high cost of living and competitive talent market
- Many positions require flexibility for Whistler properties and international residences
- Food Handler's Certificate and First Aid certification typically required
- International candidates may need work permits through Canada's Temporary Foreign Worker Program
Successful placements often involve chefs who understand Vancouver's farm-to-table culture, seasonal Pacific ingredients, and the sophisticated entertaining expectations of the city's business and entertainment elite.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about hiring a Private Chef in Vancouver, Canada
How much does it cost to hire a Private Chef in Vancouver, Canada through Lighthouse Careers?
Lighthouse Careers operates on a success-fee model with no upfront costs to hire a Private Chef in Vancouver. You only pay our placement fee once we successfully place the right candidate and they begin working for you. This ensures we're fully invested in finding the perfect Private Chef Vancouver match for your household. Our fee structure is transparent and competitive within the luxury staffing industry, allowing you to focus on finding the right talent without financial risk during the search process.
What is the typical timeline to hire a Private Chef in Vancouver through your agency?
Our streamlined process allows you to hire a Private Chef Vancouver within 1-2 weeks typically. We deliver your first shortlist of qualified candidates within 24 hours of receiving your requirements. This rapid turnaround is possible due to our extensive network of vetted culinary professionals in the Vancouver area and our deep understanding of the local market. The final timeline depends on your specific requirements, interview availability, and decision-making process.
What qualifications should I look for when hiring a Private Chef in Vancouver, Canada?
When you hire a Private Chef Vancouver, look for formal culinary training from recognized institutions, extensive experience in high-end restaurants or private households, and specialized dietary expertise if needed. Key qualifications include food safety certifications, wine knowledge, menu planning skills, and experience with international cuisines. Many top Private Chefs in Vancouver also have experience working with ultra-high-net-worth families and understand the discretion and flexibility required in luxury household environments.
What is your vetting process for Private Chef candidates in Vancouver?
Our comprehensive vetting process includes thorough background checks, criminal record verification, and detailed reference checks with previous employers. We conduct skills assessments through cooking demonstrations and menu planning exercises. Each Private Chef Vancouver candidate undergoes personality assessments to ensure cultural fit with your household. We verify all culinary credentials, certifications, and work history. This rigorous process ensures you receive only the most qualified and trustworthy candidates for your consideration.
Do you offer a replacement guarantee when I hire a Private Chef through Lighthouse Careers?
Yes, Lighthouse Careers provides a comprehensive replacement guarantee for all Private Chef Vancouver placements. If your Private Chef doesn't meet expectations or the working relationship doesn't work out within the guarantee period, we will find a suitable replacement at no additional cost. This guarantee demonstrates our confidence in our matching process and ensures your investment in hiring through our agency is protected. Specific guarantee terms will be outlined in your service agreement.
Are there any location-specific considerations for hiring a Private Chef in Vancouver, Canada?
When you hire a Private Chef Vancouver, consider candidates familiar with local suppliers, seasonal ingredients from British Columbia, and Pacific Northwest cuisine styles. Vancouver's multicultural environment means many Private Chefs have expertise in Asian, European, and fusion cuisines. Candidates should understand local food regulations, have connections with premium local markets like Granville Island, and be adaptable to Vancouver's outdoor entertaining culture. Knowledge of local wine regions and sustainable, farm-to-table practices is also valuable.
What services are included when I work with Lighthouse Careers to hire a Private Chef?
Our full-service approach includes initial consultation to understand your requirements, comprehensive candidate sourcing and vetting, presentation of qualified shortlists, interview coordination, reference verification, and contract negotiation assistance. We provide ongoing support during the placement process and after your Private Chef Vancouver starts working. Our team also offers salary benchmarking, role definition assistance, and guidance on household policies to ensure a successful long-term placement.
How do I get started with hiring a Private Chef in Vancouver through Lighthouse Careers?
Getting started is simple - contact Lighthouse Careers for an initial consultation where we'll discuss your specific needs, household requirements, and preferences for your Private Chef Vancouver role. We'll gather information about dietary preferences, entertaining frequency, kitchen setup, and lifestyle requirements. Once we understand your needs, we begin our search process immediately and will present your first shortlist of qualified candidates within 24 hours. No upfront payment is required to begin the process.
What salary range should I expect when hiring a Private Chef in Vancouver, Canada?
Private Chef Vancouver salaries typically range from $65,000 to $120,000+ CAD annually, depending on experience, qualifications, and specific role requirements. Factors affecting compensation include: number of family members served, entertaining frequency, dietary restrictions, travel requirements, and whether the position is live-in or live-out. Ultra-high-net-worth families often pay premium salaries for exceptional talent. Benefits packages may include health insurance, vacation time, and professional development opportunities.
Should I hire a live-in or live-out Private Chef in Vancouver?
The choice between live-in and live-out depends on your lifestyle and requirements. Live-in Private Chefs in Vancouver offer greater availability for last-minute requests, early morning service, and extensive entertaining. Live-out arrangements provide more privacy for both parties and are often preferred for families with established routines. Vancouver's housing costs may influence candidate preferences. Consider your entertaining schedule, kitchen usage patterns, and available accommodation when deciding which arrangement works best for your household.
Do Private Chefs in Vancouver need to travel with the family?
Travel requirements vary by household when you hire a Private Chef Vancouver. Some families require their Private Chef to accompany them to vacation homes, business trips, or international travel to maintain consistent meal service. Others prefer local-only arrangements. Travel-willing Private Chefs typically command higher salaries and may require additional benefits like travel insurance. Discuss travel expectations upfront, including frequency, destinations, accommodation arrangements, and compensation for time away from home base in Vancouver.
What should I know about trial periods and contracts for Private Chef positions in Vancouver?
Most Private Chef Vancouver positions include a probationary period of 30-90 days, allowing both parties to assess the working relationship. Employment contracts should clearly outline duties, work schedules, compensation, benefits, confidentiality requirements, and termination procedures. In British Columbia, employment standards legislation applies to domestic workers. Consider including clauses about menu planning responsibilities, grocery shopping, kitchen maintenance, and any special dietary requirements. Lighthouse Careers can assist with contract development to ensure all parties are protected.
Also Hiring in Vancouver
Our Placement Guarantee
We're so confident in our matching process that we offer a replacement guarantee. If your placed Private Chef doesn't meet expectations within the guarantee period, we'll find a replacement at no additional cost.

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