Hire a Private Chef in 24h
Premium Private Chef recruitment in Paris, France. 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 hire a Private Chef for your luxury residence, you're investing in culinary excellence that transforms daily dining into extraordinary experiences. A Private Chef in Paris, France brings world-class expertise to your household, combining classical French culinary training with international sophistication to create bespoke dining experiences tailored to your family's preferences and lifestyle.
Essential Responsibilities of a Private Chef in Luxury Households
Unlike restaurant chefs, Private Chefs in ultra-high-net-worth households manage comprehensive culinary operations within intimate residential settings. Their responsibilities extend far beyond meal preparation:
- Design and execute personalized menus accommodating dietary restrictions, preferences, and cultural requirements
- Source premium ingredients from exclusive suppliers and local Parisian markets
- Coordinate with household staff including House Managers and service personnel
- Manage kitchen operations across multiple residences, yachts, or seasonal properties
- Cater intimate dinner parties and formal entertaining with discretion and professionalism
- Maintain detailed records of family preferences and guest requirements
- Oversee kitchen inventory, budgeting, and vendor relationships
Qualifications and Expertise to Seek
When selecting a Private Chef in Paris, France, discerning employers should prioritize candidates with exceptional credentials and proven experience in luxury private service:
- Formal culinary education from prestigious institutions such as Le Cordon Bleu or Institut Paul Bocuse
- Minimum 5-10 years experience in private households, luxury hotels, or Michelin-starred establishments
- Expertise in French cuisine alongside international culinary traditions
- Food safety certifications and knowledge of dietary restrictions management
- Multilingual capabilities and cultural sensitivity for international families
- Impeccable references from previous ultra-high-net-worth employers
The Paris Advantage
Paris offers unparalleled access to world-class ingredients, from artisanal producers at local marchés to exclusive suppliers serving the city's finest establishments. A skilled Private Chef leverages these resources while understanding the sophisticated palates and entertaining expectations of Paris's elite social circles.
Lighthouse Careers connects discerning families with exceptional Private Chefs who understand that luxury private service demands discretion, flexibility, and unwavering commitment to culinary excellence in the world's gastronomic capital.
Private Chef Market in Paris, France
Private Chef Services in Paris, France
The luxury private staffing market in Paris presents unique opportunities for ultra-high-net-worth families seeking to hire Private Chef Paris, France. As one of the world's culinary capitals, Paris attracts exceptional culinary talent, yet the competition for elite private chefs remains intense among affluent households in prestigious arrondissements such as the 7th, 8th, and 16th, as well as exclusive suburbs like Neuilly-sur-Seine and Saint-Cloud.
Compensation and Market Insights
A Private Chef in Paris, France typically commands annual salaries ranging from €60,000 to €120,000, with exceptional candidates earning up to €150,000 annually. Live-in positions often include accommodation valued at €15,000-25,000 annually, plus comprehensive benefits. The high cost of living in Paris, particularly housing costs averaging €30-40 per square meter in prime locations, significantly influences compensation packages.
Local Market Considerations
French labor laws require specific employment contracts and social contributions, making proper documentation essential. Many elite families prefer chefs with formal French culinary training from institutions like Le Cordon Bleu or Institut Paul Bocuse. For international candidates, securing appropriate work visas and demonstrating French language proficiency enhances marketability.
The demand for private chefs peaks during the social season (September through June) when Parisian high society is most active. Successful candidates often possess expertise in both classical French cuisine and international culinary styles, catering to the cosmopolitan tastes of Paris's international elite community.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about hiring a Private Chef in Paris, France
How much does it cost to hire a Private Chef in Paris, France through Lighthouse Careers?
Lighthouse Careers operates on a success-fee model with no upfront costs to hire a Private Chef in Paris, France. You only pay our placement fee once we successfully place a candidate and they begin working for you. This eliminates financial risk and ensures we're fully committed to finding the right match. Our fee structure is transparent and competitive within the luxury staffing market, reflecting the premium quality of candidates we represent and our comprehensive vetting process.
What is the typical timeline to hire a Private Chef in Paris, France?
Our streamlined process allows you to hire a Private Chef in Paris, France within 1-2 weeks. We deliver your first shortlist of qualified candidates within 48 hours of receiving your requirements. This rapid turnaround is possible due to our extensive network of pre-vetted culinary professionals in the Paris area and our deep understanding of the local market dynamics.
What qualifications should I look for when hiring a Private Chef in Paris, France?
When hiring a Private Chef in Paris, France, look for formal culinary training from prestigious institutions like Le Cordon Bleu or Institut Paul Bocuse. Essential qualifications include experience in high-end restaurants, private households, or luxury hospitality. Key skills include mastery of French cuisine, international cooking techniques, menu planning, dietary accommodation, and wine pairing knowledge. Many top candidates also hold food safety certifications and have experience working with ultra-high-net-worth families.
What is Lighthouse Careers' vetting process for Private Chef candidates in Paris?
Our comprehensive vetting process includes thorough background checks, verification of culinary credentials, and extensive reference checks with previous employers. We conduct skills assessments including cooking demonstrations and menu planning exercises. Each Private Chef candidate undergoes personality profiling to ensure cultural fit with your household. We also verify work permits and legal authorization to work in France, ensuring complete compliance with local employment regulations.
Do you offer a replacement guarantee when I hire a Private Chef through Lighthouse Careers?
Yes, we provide a comprehensive replacement guarantee when you hire a Private Chef in Paris, France through our service. If your placement doesn't work out within the guarantee period, we will find and place a replacement candidate at no additional cost. This guarantee reflects our confidence in our matching process and our commitment to your long-term satisfaction with your Private Chef placement.
Are there specific considerations for hiring a Private Chef in Paris, France?
Hiring a Private Chef in Paris, France requires understanding local culinary culture and market dynamics. Paris offers access to exceptional ingredients from local markets like Marché des Enfants Rouges and premium suppliers. Consider candidates familiar with French labor laws, local sourcing networks, and seasonal ingredient availability. Many clients prefer chefs who can navigate both traditional French cuisine and international dishes, reflecting Paris's cosmopolitan dining scene.
What services are included when I hire a Private Chef through Lighthouse Careers?
Our comprehensive service includes candidate sourcing, thorough vetting, interview coordination, reference verification, and contract negotiation support. We provide ongoing support throughout the placement process and during the initial employment period. Our service also includes guidance on competitive compensation packages, employment contracts compliant with French labor law, and best practices for managing your Private Chef relationship in Paris.
How do I get started with hiring a Private Chef in Paris, France?
Getting started is simple: contact Lighthouse Careers for an initial consultation where we'll discuss your specific requirements, household dynamics, and culinary preferences. We'll create a detailed position profile including schedule, dietary requirements, and any special skills needed. Once we understand your needs, we begin sourcing candidates immediately and deliver your first shortlist within 48 hours.
What are typical salary expectations for a Private Chef in Paris, France?
Private Chef salaries in Paris, France typically range from €50,000 to €120,000+ annually, depending on experience, qualifications, and household requirements. Factors affecting compensation include Michelin-star experience, specialized dietary expertise, language skills, and flexibility with travel. Additional benefits often include health insurance, paid vacation, and professional development opportunities. Live-in positions may include accommodation and meals as part of the package.
Should I hire a live-in or live-out Private Chef in Paris, France?
The choice between live-in and live-out arrangements depends on your lifestyle and requirements. Live-in Private Chefs offer greater flexibility for entertaining, early morning service, and travel availability, while live-out arrangements provide more privacy and are often preferred for smaller households. In Paris, many families opt for live-out arrangements due to space constraints, though live-in positions are common in larger residences or for families requiring extensive entertaining support.
Do Private Chefs in Paris need to travel with the family?
Travel requirements vary by household when you hire a Private Chef in Paris, France. Many ultra-high-net-worth families expect their Private Chef to accompany them to secondary residences, vacation properties, or during extended travel. Discuss travel expectations upfront, including frequency, destinations, and accommodation arrangements. Some chefs specialize in travel cooking and are experienced with international food sourcing and adapting to different kitchen environments.
What should I know about trial periods and contracts for Private Chefs in Paris?
French employment law allows for trial periods (période d'essai) when you hire a Private Chef in Paris, typically 2-4 months for executive positions. This provides both parties opportunity to ensure compatibility. Employment contracts should comply with French labor regulations, including working time limits, overtime provisions, and vacation entitlements. We recommend professional legal review of contracts and can connect you with employment law specialists familiar with domestic staff arrangements in France.
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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