EXECUTIVE CHEF - K-12 SCHOOLS

Augusta, GA, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Standard Hours

Benefits

Medical

Dental

Vision

Life Insurance/AD

Disability insurance

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

holiday time off

Associate Shopping Program

Health and wellness programs

Discount Marketplace

Identity Theft Protection

Pet insurance

Commuter Benefits

Employee assistance program

Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Paid parental leave

Personal Leave

Job Description

Chartwells K12 is a leading provider of food services and dining programs for K-12 schools, dedicated to ensuring students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier. With more than 16,000 associates serving in 4,500 schools across the nation, their operations range from large public institutions to small charter and private schools. Chartwells K12 is known for its deep experience in foodservice, education, and operations, supported by a team of experts in culinary arts, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability. They strive to create custom dining programs that engage students with meals they love to eat while maintaining high standards for health and nutrition. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.

This job opening is for the role of Executive Chef at a premier K12 school district located in Graniteville, SC. The position reports directly to the Director and offers a unique opportunity for a culinary professional with a passion for innovation and operational excellence. The Executive Chef will lead kitchen operations with creativity, skill, and precision while fostering a safe and sanitary environment. This role emphasizes leadership within a dynamic foodservice setting where innovation, quality, and adherence to health standards are paramount. The ideal candidate will be responsible for developing menus that meet K12 standards, training kitchen staff, managing inventories, and ensuring compliance with sanitation regulations. Additionally, the role involves active participation in staff development and departmental initiatives to keep the foodservice offering aligned with current culinary trends and client satisfaction programs. Chartwells K12 provides a highly supportive work environment and a robust benefits package, allowing their associates to grow professionally while contributing to the health and happiness of students. This position is therefore suited for an entrepreneurial culinary leader who wants to make a significant impact within an institutional foodservice operation.

Job Requirements

Education equivalent to an associate’s degree in culinary arts or equivalent experience
Minimum of two years culinary and kitchen management experience preferably in institutional or batch cooking
Strong knowledge of food safety sanitation and cost control practices
Experience with menu development and food production
Proficiency with computer applications such as Microsoft Office and email communication
Ability to train and lead kitchen staff effectively
Commitment to maintaining high standards of cleanliness and safety
ServSafe certification preferred

Job Qualifications

Associate’s degree desired or equivalent experience in culinary arts
Two plus years of culinary or kitchen management experience with catering experience preferred
Proven success in complex foodservice operations with a solid base in institutional and batch cooking
Hands-on chef experience accompanied by solid knowledge of food trends emphasizing quality production sanitation cost control and presentation
Proficiency in computer applications including Microsoft Office suite and email systems
Willingness to actively engage in client satisfaction programs and activities
ServSafe certification highly desirable

Job Duties

Develops regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards ensuring adherence to portioning and presentation guidelines
Trains kitchen staff in food preparation equipment operation and safety protocols promoting a culture of excellence
Establishes and maintains thorough cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment and work areas
Handles inventory of food and supplies optimizing utilization while ensuring vital products are readily available
Ensures compliance with health and sanitation regulations through meticulous adherence to department procedures and participation in audits
Actively participates in departmental meetings staff development initiatives and professional programs to stay abreast of industry trends
Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of a dining service operation