Head Chef/Kitchen Manager

St. Jude of the Lake is a welcoming parish and school community located in Mahtomedi, Minnesota, committed to fostering spiritual growth and educational excellence. With more than 30 dedicated employees, St. Jude of the Lake serves as a vibrant hub for its parishioners and students, offering a range of programs and services grounded in the teachings of the Catholic Church. The parish and school emphasize a nurturing environment where faith, learning, and community involvement are paramount. The organization upholds the mission of the Catholic Church by encouraging employees and volunteers to embody its values through their daily actions and interactions.

The full-time Head Chef position at St. Jude of the Lake is a central role responsible for overseeing all culinary operations within the parish and school settings. The successful candidate will engage hands-on in meal preparation, menu execution, and kitchen management, ensuring that food services meet high standards of quality, nutrition, and cost-effectiveness. This role demands strong leadership skills, as the Head Chef will coordinate kitchen staff, volunteers, and kitchen processes, fostering a collaborative and efficient working environment. The position offers a starting salary of $30 per hour.

The Head Chef will be actively involved in preparing meals for the school, parish programs, and various events, maintaining consistency and excellence across all food offerings. They will also adapt menus to accommodate dietary restrictions and allergies, ensuring all guests enjoy safe and delicious meals. Beyond daily tasks, the chef will contribute creatively by developing seasonal menus and special event dishes that enhance community bonding and fundraising activities.

In addition to culinary responsibilities, the Head Chef will play a vital role in sustaining kitchen operations, supporting smooth transitions during staffing changes, and implementing continuous improvements in workflow efficiency. Leadership duties include providing direction to kitchen personnel, assisting with scheduling and training, and setting a professional example through active participation in all culinary duties.

Maintaining rigorous food safety and compliance with local and state health regulations is a critical element of the role. The Head Chef will monitor food storage, preparation standards, and sanitation protocols to guarantee a safe food service environment. Inventory management and purchasing support are also key responsibilities, requiring attention to waste reduction, budget adherence, and vendor coordination.

Participation in parish and school events is expected, with the Head Chef preparing and serving food for approximately two to three special functions monthly. Flexibility to support evening or weekend catering is occasionally required. The role also provides opportunities for community engagement through the development and delivery of cooking and baking classes aimed at parishioners, students, and community members.

This position requires a genuine commitment to the mission and teachings of the Catholic Church, along with the flexibility to thrive in a physically demanding kitchen environment. The Head Chef will be a vital contributor to the parish and school community, supporting fellowship and hospitality through the shared experience of food.