Sous Chef - DUKE University Athletics

Proof of the Pudding is an award-winning catering company renowned throughout the Southeast for its dedication to creating quality culinary concepts entirely from scratch. Established with a passion for excellence, this catering company has expanded its offerings into Sports and Entertainment Hospitality Services, providing elevated concessions and premium dining experiences at renowned venues such as collegiate stadiums, PGA golf tournaments, international boat shows, and professional sports teams. Proof of the Pudding prides itself on delivering unique, innovative, and high-quality culinary services that meet the demands of diverse and dynamic events throughout the region. Its commitment to quality and customer satisfaction makes it one of the leading names in the hospitality and catering industry.

Now operating as the exclusive caterer for DUKE University, Proof of the Pudding manages a comprehensive hospitality program that extends across a variety of athletic venues including football, basketball, baseball, and lacrosse stadiums. The company is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to help lead the concessions and premium hospitality culinary program at DUKE University. This role requires a seasoned culinary professional who will be pivotal in ensuring the kitchen operates smoothly during major sporting events and other hospitality occasions. The Sous Chef will work closely with the Executive Chef, assisting with menu planning, event execution, staff scheduling, purchasing, and invoice management. This full-time, hourly position offers a competitive salary range of $22-$28 per hour, with multiple benefits available for eligible employees.

The role of Sous Chef with Proof of the Pudding at DUKE University is a dynamic, hands-on position that encompasses multiple responsibilities. This individual will oversee food preparation and service within several key programs including a football program managing 22 suites and three premium clubs at Wallace Wade Stadium, a basketball program with a premium club in Cameron Indoor Stadium, a student training table operating two meal periods from Sunday through Thursday, and a versatile catering program handling various event types like weddings and bar mitzvahs. The Sous Chef plays an essential role in maintaining a safe, secure, and healthy kitchen environment, enforcing sanitation standards, legal compliance, and security protocols. Additionally, the Sous Chef fosters positive morale and teamwork within the culinary staff, aligns daily production with business needs, coordinates staffing schedules, and supports the hiring and training processes of new culinary employees.

This position also demands a high level of culinary creativity and innovation where the Sous Chef will contribute to the development and communication of creative menu items that adhere to Proof of the Pudding's standard of excellence. Proactive leadership is vital, as the Sous Chef will lead and mentor the culinary team, ensuring a culture of accountability and continuous growth. The role also blends office-based responsibilities including computer work and interdepartmental meetings with active kitchen duties that require using standard culinary equipment, managing physical tasks such as lifting and carrying, and navigating various venue environments. Overall, the position offers an exciting opportunity for culinary professionals seeking a challenging and rewarding role within a prestigious hospitality company supporting a major collegiate athletics program.