SOUS CHEF

Midwestern University is a leading educational institution located in Downers Grove, Illinois, dedicated to providing exceptional learning experiences and comprehensive services to its vibrant campus community. Known for fostering a supportive and dynamic environment, the university emphasizes both academic excellence and the well-being of its students, faculty, and staff. Midwestern University takes pride in its commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and continuous development, positioning itself as an employer that values employees' growth and contributions within the campus ecosystem. The university's food service operations are managed by Compass Group, an internationally recognized provider of food services and hospitality, which ensures quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction in every meal served on campus.

The university is currently seeking a full-time Sous Chef to join its dedicated culinary team. This position offers a competitive hourly wage ranging from $21.00 to $23.00 and follows a Monday through Friday schedule from 7:00 am to 3:30 pm, supporting a balanced work-life structure. The advertised position emphasizes professional growth and the opportunity to work in an educational setting that values both skill and passion in culinary arts.

As a Sous Chef at Midwestern University, you will play a pivotal role in assisting the Executive Chef with the preparation and cooking of diverse food offerings, ensuring consistency, quality, and safety in all culinary operations. This role entails coordinating activities among cooks and food-service associates, supervising and training team members, managing inventory, and maintaining compliance with all food safety standards. You will be responsible for ensuring that all culinary output meets established recipes and production standards, supporting seamless kitchen workflow during peak production times, and delivering exceptional service to customers. Additionally, you will have the opportunity to engage directly with customers, address any concerns in a professional manner, and contribute to a positive dining experience.

The position also involves administrative responsibilities such as interviewing applicants, scheduling staff, monitoring payroll, providing performance feedback, and implementing disciplinary actions when necessary. This holistic approach to kitchen management ensures a well-organized and highly efficient food service operation. The role requires attention to detail in food storage, sanitation, and kitchen maintenance, adhering to all corporate, state, and federal regulations to uphold the highest standards of hygiene and safety.

Beyond the daily operational duties, the Sous Chef position is designed to foster leadership and culinary expertise through ongoing training and development opportunities. Employees at Midwestern University enjoy various benefits, including paid holidays after six months, holiday breaks, free shift meals, and a 401k plan with partial matching contributions. These perks, coupled with the supportive work environment, create a rewarding career path for culinary professionals committed to excellence and innovation in food service.

The university and Compass Group are dedicated to diversity and inclusion, ensuring that all employees are treated fairly and with respect irrespective of race, gender, age, or other protected categories. With a focus on empowerment and professional respect, the role offers an environment where employees can contribute meaningfully to campus life while advancing their culinary careers in a stable and reputable institution.