Job Title
Meal Prep Chef
Location
Portland, OR - NE
Employment Type
Contract (Independent Contractor; estimated 6–8 hours/week)
Schedule
Flexible; typically one main delivery day per week. Coordination and menu planning via text or email. Candidate prepares meals in their own licensed kitchen and delivers to the family home.
Compensation
$25–30/hour, based on experience and efficiency. Grocery reimbursement.
Start Date
ASAP
Requirements
- Must operate under an established LLC or equivalent business structure (independent contractor only)
- Maintain a smoke-free environment
- Valid driver's license and reliable transportation for delivery
- Food handler's certification preferred
- Experience with diabetic-friendly and Mediterranean meal plans strongly preferred
- Ability to communicate dietary considerations clearly and adapt recipes as needed
About Our Family
We are a busy, health-focused family navigating a transitional period and seeking consistent meal prep support. Our family's priorities include creating balanced, nourishing meals that meet a range of dietary needs — including diabetic-friendly options for an aging parent and a gradual household shift toward a Mediterranean diet. We have two kids we are steering towards healthier options and consistent meal prep helps our family stay healthy and avoid last-minute takeout decisions during an emotionally and logistically full season.
Who You Are / What We're Looking For
You are a flexible, thoughtful, and wellness-oriented chef who enjoys helping families eat well through structure and creativity. You plan ahead, communicate clearly, and adapt to evolving dietary preferences. You're familiar with (or eager to learn about) diabetic-friendly and Mediterranean-style cooking, and you take pride in creating flavorful, health-conscious meals. You understand how to design meals kids will enjoy while supporting adults' long-term nutrition goals. Reliability, professionalism, and care for presentation are essential.
Key Responsibilities
Meal Planning & Preparation
- Design and prepare 3–4 dinners per week for a family of five, following Mediterranean-inspired principles
- Create large salads with protein options for mom's weekday lunches
- Prepare protein-forward breakfast items that appeal to children (e.g., muffins, breakfast bars)
- Prepare and deliver weekly meals for an elderly family member (diabetic-friendly, high-protein, gentle on digestion; currently prefers soups and soft foods)
- Adjust recipes for allergies, dietary restrictions, and family preferences
- Communicate weekly menu plans via text/email for review and approval
Grocery & Inventory Management
- Shop for all ingredients and manage receipt tracking within the weekly budget (groceries up to $200)
- Ensure freshness and balanced ingredient sourcing
- Organize grocery and pantry planning to reduce waste and repetition
Delivery & Coordination
- Prepare meals off-site in personal or commercial kitchen
- Deliver meals in appropriate containers (family will provide reusable options if preferred)
- Communicate delivery timing in advance and ensure temperature-safe transport
- Leave home tidy and organized upon drop-off, if entering the property
Health & Nutrition Awareness
- Incorporate Mediterranean-style ingredients (olive oil, fish, legumes, vegetables, whole grains)
- Limit processed sugars and refined carbohydrates
- Prioritize diabetic-friendly and anti-inflammatory recipes
- Prioritize organic foods, especially meat
- Ensure meals include balanced protein and fiber content
How to Apply
Please submit:
- A short introduction explaining your culinary background and why you're a great fit for this family
- Your current menu or sample meal list
- Proof of LLC or equivalent business registration
- Three professional references with contact information