CHEF, SOUS I

Chartwells Higher Education is a prominent dining services provider operating at over 300 college and university campuses across the United States. As a member of Compass Group USA, one of the world’s leading foodservice companies, Chartwells focuses on reinventing the on-campus dining experience by creating innovative, high-tech, food-infused social spaces that foster meaningful relationships and interactions. By investing in these vibrant dining environments, the company is committed to promoting community and enhancing the overall student life experience. Chartwells is dedicated to food-forward, innovative culinary practices that prioritize quality, freshness, and nutritious options to fuel hungry minds and support student success.

The company is currently seeking a Sous Chef I to join their team in Pittsburgh, PA. This full-time role, classified under pay grade 11, offers a competitive salary range of $50,000 to $60,000 annually, along with comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, and vision insurance, 401K retirement plans, and paid time off. Reporting to the General Manager, the Sous Chef I will play a critical role in ensuring the success of the food program and the overall culinary operations at the assigned campus. This position requires collaboration with the culinary and marketing teams to introduce new programs and maintain high standards consistent with the client’s culture and health department regulations.

As a Sous Chef I, you will assist in all aspects of culinary management including food preparation, menu planning, inventory control, and ordering. You will be essential in motivating, training, and directing back-of-house staff to ensure seamless kitchen operations. The role calls for a balance of hands-on cooking skills and leadership abilities to meet objectives related to food quality, presentation, sanitation, safety, and budget management. You will also be tasked with upholding company standards and client expectations, fostering a creative and productive kitchen environment.

Ideal candidates will have at least five years of culinary experience, including one year in a supervisory or management role, with backgrounds in restaurants, hotels, corporate dining, education, military, or healthcare food service. Knowledge of current food industry trends, cost control techniques, health department guidelines, and computer literacy in Microsoft Office, especially Excel, is essential. An Associate’s degree in Culinary Arts and ServSafe or Department of Health certification is preferred but not mandatory.

By joining Chartwells Higher Education, you become part of a diverse and inclusive organization committed to career growth and development. The company values applicants from all backgrounds and is dedicated to equal opportunity employment practices. With a strong focus on creating food experiences that inspire and nourish, this opportunity is ideal for culinary professionals eager to advance their careers while contributing to a meaningful mission within an educational setting.