SOUS CHEF (FULL TIME)

Western Washington University Catering is a dynamic division operating within the esteemed Western Washington University located in Bellingham, Washington. Known for providing exceptional food services, the catering team plays a crucial role in supporting university events, conferences, and catering activities across campus. As part of a comprehensive dining services operation, the catering department emphasizes quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction while adhering to rigorous food safety and sanitation standards. This full-time position is designed to join a well-established team focused on delivering high standards of culinary excellence in a vibrant university environment. The role comes with competitive pay ranging from $26.85 to $31.80 per hour, offering a rewarding career path for culinary professionals dedicated to growth and leadership in the foodservice industry.

The Sous Chef position at Western Washington University Catering is a pivotal leadership role that supports the Executive Chef in preparing and cooking food, managing kitchen staff, and ensuring all food production meets the highest quality and safety standards. This position requires coordination and supervision of cooks and other food-service associates, guiding and mentoring the team through training, scheduling, and performance management. The Sous Chef acts as the primary point of oversight in the Executive Chef's absence, taking full responsibility for kitchen operations and staff performance. This role also involves direct interaction with customers, addressing any concerns with professionalism to maintain a positive dining experience.

Candidates stepping into this role must bring prior culinary experience with exposure to a variety of cuisines and cooking techniques that prepare them for leadership responsibilities. Experience in supervisory roles and previous Sous Chef duties are highly preferred to excel in this demanding but rewarding position. Key responsibilities include cooking food according to approved recipes, managing production timelines, maintaining sanitation protocols, inventory tracking, and ensuring the kitchen operates efficiently during peak times. The role requires strong leadership, organizational skills, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

Working at Western Washington University Catering offers more than just a job — it presents a chance to join a supportive campus community that values and empowers its associates. Employees benefit from comprehensive training and development opportunities, allowing each team member to enhance their skills and career prospects. In addition to competitive wages, the full-time role comes with an attractive benefits package including health, dental, and vision insurance, life and disability insurance, a retirement plan, and various wellness programs. The organization actively invests in its workforce by providing an employee shopping program, pet insurance, voluntary benefits, identity theft protection, and access to flexible spending accounts. The work environment fosters a culture of respect, inclusion, and equal opportunity, ensuring that all employees can thrive regardless of background or identity.

The job also offers practical perks like Instapay through the One @Work app and supports work-life balance with paid and unpaid time off benefits in accordance with state and federal laws. Potential candidates should be prepared to work variable shifts as business needs dictate, with possible layoff periods during university breaks. However, opportunities to work year-round or at alternate locations during these times may arise. Western Washington University Catering remains committed to upholding a safe, drug-free workplace and requires any necessary background screenings depending on the role. Overall, this opportunity is ideal for experienced culinary professionals looking for a challenging, engaging, and supportive role where they can truly make an impact daily.