Chef de Cuisine

Rice University, located on a sprawling 300-acre tree-lined campus in Houston, Texas, is nationally recognized among the top 20 universities by U.S. News & World Report. Known for its exceptional academic quality and vibrant campus life, Rice features a low undergraduate student-to-faculty ratio of 6-to-1, creating an intimate educational environment. The university embraces a residential college system that fosters intellectual, emotional, and cultural growth through a variety of social events, intramural sports, student theatrical productions, lecture series, courses, and student governance. Emphasizing the development of close-knit and diverse college communities, Rice is highly ranked for both its quality of life and value among private universities. Beyond its academic excellence, Rice University promotes a values-driven culture symbolized by the acronym RICE: Responsibility, Integrity, Community, and Excellence. These core principles guide the behavior and decisions of faculty, staff, and students alike and are central to the university’s strong sense of community and commitment to inclusivity and respectful engagement.

Rice University is also committed to creating a rewarding work environment that cultivates collaboration, professional growth, and diversity. The university’s HR policies reflect a commitment to equal employment opportunity and support for diversity, ensuring qualified applicants are considered without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, genetic information, disability, or protected veteran status. Reasonable accommodations are made for qualified persons with disabilities to facilitate accessible application and hiring processes.

The position of Chef de Cuisine at Rice Hospitality is a key leadership role responsible for managing daily culinary operations across multiple venues including retail locations, residential dining programs, and campus-wide catering services. This salaried exempt position commands a competitive minimum hiring salary starting at $63,100, with actual pay commensurate with experience and qualifications. The Chef de Cuisine plays an indispensable role in delivering high-quality culinary experiences that align with the university’s hospitality standards and brand expectations. This leadership role involves a hands-on approach to culinary production, quality assurance, and team development while maintaining efficiency and consistency across diverse service platforms.

Working closely under the guidance of the Executive Chef and culinary leadership team, the Chef de Cuisine oversees menu execution, supports special events and catering functions, and drives operational excellence. The ideal candidate thrives in fast-paced, multi-unit environments where organizational skills, problem-solving, and leadership are paramount. Essential qualifications include extensive experience in university or large-scale food service operations, proficiency in culinary and inventory management software, and the ability to uphold rigorous standards of cleanliness, food safety, and sanitation. Strong culinary abilities such as knife skills, flavor balancing, and tasting expertise are critical, as is the capacity to multitask effectively and motivate kitchen staff.

The role demands flexibility to work varied shifts including weekends and holidays, physical capability to perform demanding tasks such as lifting, standing for extended periods, and maneuvering throughout kitchen environments. The Chef de Cuisine is designated an essential personnel position, expected to provide vital dining services during campus emergencies. This role offers not only an opportunity to showcase culinary acumen but also to foster a positive, professional, and inclusive team culture that reflects Rice University’s broader values and commitment to excellence.