Chef de Cuisine

Sodexo is a global leader in the provision of integrated food services and facilities management, committed to enhancing the quality of life for people we serve. With operations spanning food service, catering, facilities management, and other comprehensive solutions worldwide, Sodexo dedicates itself to creating a better everyday experience for both clients and employees. Through its partnership with the Shedd Aquarium in Chicago, IL, the company ensures memorable culinary experiences that meet the highest standards of quality, sustainability, and customer satisfaction. Sodexo’s culture is built on fairness, respect, and inclusion, fostering a work environment where diversity is embraced and all employees are valued and appreciated. This commitment extends to providing equal employment opportunities and a workplace where individuals can thrive personally and professionally.

The role of Chef de Cuisine at Shedd Aquarium is a vital leadership position within Sodexo’s kitchen operations, specifically designed for a skilled culinary professional who thrives in fast-paced, high-volume environments. This role primarily contributes as an individual contributor, focusing on the preparation and execution of food service with a high degree of autonomy, while occasionally collaborating with kitchen staff and management teams. The Chef de Cuisine is responsible for supporting daily kitchen operations, ensuring that food quality, portioning, and presentation meet the established standards that align with the aquarium’s reputation and guest expectations.

Salary for this position ranges from $53,720 to $69,520 per year, reflecting fair compensation based on the candidate's experience, education, and skills. The Chef de Cuisine plays a key role in guiding and developing culinary team members, helping to maintain consistency and high performance across all shifts. This leadership extends to managing food safety protocols, sanitation standards, and workplace safety to ensure compliance with health regulations and internal policies. Moreover, the role involves monitoring food and labor costs, overseeing inventory control, maintaining equipment, and organizing the kitchen to foster operational efficiency.

Beyond day-to-day responsibilities, the Chef de Cuisine contributes to menu planning and the creation of seasonal offerings that enhance guest satisfaction and dining experiences at the aquarium. The position requires flexibility, including the willingness to work evenings, weekends, holidays, and during special events to support the dynamic needs of the venue. Ideal candidates will bring experience from high-volume kitchens, preferably within sports, entertainment, or premium hospitality environments, with a demonstrated ability to lead teams under pressure while upholding culinary excellence.

At Sodexo, working as a Chef de Cuisine offers extensive career growth opportunities, paid time off, company holidays, and access to wellness programs alongside medical, dental, and vision benefits. The company values personal development and supports tuition reimbursement, enabling employees to build their skills and advance in their careers. By joining Sodexo at Shedd Aquarium, candidates become part of a team devoted not only to high-quality culinary service but also to making a positive social, economic, and environmental impact in their community.