Chef de Cuisine

The University of Colorado Boulder (CU Boulder) is a prestigious public research university recognized for its outstanding academic programs, vibrant campus community, and dedication to student success. One of the integral departments supporting the university's dynamic environment is the Campus Dining Services team, which plays a critical role in delivering high-quality dining experiences to students, faculty, and visitors. CU Boulder’s Campus Dining & Hospitality (CDH) leads the industry by preparing and serving approximately 3 million meals each year across various dining venues, including residential dining halls, catering services, and retail outlets. The team focuses not only on exceptional taste and service but also on sustainability efforts, dietary accommodations, and allergen management, contributing to an inclusive and health-conscious campus environment.

Campus Dining Services is now seeking a Chef de Cuisine, a senior culinary leadership role pivotal to maintaining and elevating the quality, innovation, and operational excellence of CU Boulder's multiple restaurant concepts. The Chef de Cuisine will work under the general supervision of the Executive Culinary Team and collaborate closely with the Associate Director of Culinary and the Senior Executive Chef. This role is highly visible on campus, demanding a strong culinary vision to design fresh, high-quality, and on-trend menus that meet the diverse preferences and dietary needs of a large and varied campus community.

The Chef de Cuisine will oversee all operational standards and procedures across assigned restaurant venues, ensuring seamless workflow, consistent food quality, and excellent customer service. They are responsible for managing and training culinary staff, including student employees, and creating efficient scheduling practices that maximize productivity and reduce waste. A critical aspect of this role is the ability to manage the financial health of the restaurant operations by understanding and controlling food costs, labor expenses, procurement, and pricing strategies. The ideal candidate will be able to make informed operational assessments and develop actionable plans to maintain fiscal responsibility while delivering excellent dining experiences.

In addition to culinary leadership, the Chef de Cuisine plays a vital role in upholding rigorous quality assurance and safety standards. This includes ensuring compliance with local and state health codes, implementing CDH’s allergen labeling program, and maintaining food security and sanitation protocols. Taking on responsibility for health inspection audits and emergency response within the food safety domain forms a significant part of this position’s duties.

CU Boulder values inclusivity and equal opportunity, encouraging individuals from all backgrounds, including protected veterans and persons with disabilities, to apply. The annual salary for this position is $57,158.40, and the university provides comprehensive benefits designed to support employees' holistic well-being. These include medical and dental insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, tuition assistance, and local transit passes.

This role requires a commitment to working in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment and fostering a workplace culture characterized by respect, dignity, and empowerment. Effective communication and conflict resolution skills are essential, as the Chef de Cuisine will lead and support a diverse team within a student-focused service setting. Candidates with previous experience in high-volume production food operations will find this opportunity particularly aligned with their skills and aspirations.

Working at CU Boulder, beyond the kitchen, means being part of a broader Division of Student Life dedicated to helping students flourish in every aspect of their university experience — academically, socially, and professionally. The Division comprises 30 departments that collectively support all facets of student life, ensuring a vibrant and supportive campus atmosphere. With over 900 staff members, the Division is a leader in shaping a personalized and enriching student journey, and Campus Dining Services is a proud contributor to this mission through quality food and hospitality.

By joining CU Boulder as a Chef de Cuisine, culinary professionals take a critical step in shaping memorable dining experiences that resonate with the university community while contributing to a sustainable, inclusive, and health-conscious campus environment. The role promises engaging challenges and rewarding career growth within a supportive and accomplished team dedicated to excellence in campus dining.