Compass Group logo

SOUS CHEF I - CATERING - AMERICAN UNIVERSITY

Job Overview

briefcase

Employment Type

Full-time
moneybag

Compensation

Salary
Range $60,000.00 - $68,000.00
clock

Work Schedule

Standard Hours
diamond

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 Higher Education is a prominent foodservice provider operating in over 300 colleges and universities across the United States. Known for revolutionizing the on-campus dining experience, Chartwells is a division of Compass Group USA, a global leader in foodservice management. The company is committed to fostering vibrant food-centric social environments that enhance student interactions and create memorable dining experiences. By investing in innovative, high-tech culinary spaces, Chartwells sets new standards in campus dining, continually striving to feed not only hungry bodies but also hungry minds, preparing students for success both academically and personally.

At American University in Washington, DC, Chartwells Higher Education seeks a Catering Sous Chef to join their dynamic culinary team. This full-time position offers a competitive salary ranging from $60,000 to $68,000 annually, complemented by a comprehensive benefits package including medical, dental, vision coverage, and 401k retirement plans. The Catering Sous Chef plays a crucial role in supporting both on-campus and off-campus catering culinary operations. This position demands a skilled culinary professional capable of assisting in supervising kitchen staff, preparing and cooking diverse menu items, and developing daily catering menus along with garnishment techniques that meet high-quality standards.

The role involves close collaboration with the Executive Chef and other culinary leaders to ensure efficient food production and cost control, which is essential for maintaining the high service standards expected by the university community. The Catering Sous Chef is also charged with executing catering events, rolling out new culinary initiatives in partnership with marketing teams, and cultivating strong client relationships that align catering services with client objectives, driving satisfaction and loyalty.

Ideal candidates for this position possess an Associate of Science degree or equivalent experience in culinary arts or kitchen management, alongside significant experience in high-volume, complex foodservice environments. Comprehensive knowledge of food trends, sanitation, food cost management, and presentation is highly valued. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency with computer systems and hold ServSafe certification to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

This opportunity at American University provides a platform for culinary professionals passionate about innovation and excellence to grow and make a meaningful impact on campus life. Working with Chartwells means joining a diverse organization that values humility, hunger for success, and smart thinking. Employees benefit from a supportive work culture, extensive professional development opportunities, and an inclusive environment dedicated to fair treatment and equal opportunity for all. Chartwells Higher Education encourages dedicated culinary professionals to embark on an exciting career journey where their contributions directly enhance the student experience and the institution’s reputation for exceptional dining services.

Job Requirements

  • Associate degree or equivalent culinary experience
  • Previous culinary or kitchen management experience
  • Experience in high-volume foodservice operations
  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards
  • Ability to work in a fast-paced environment
  • Effective communication skills
  • Ability to supervise and collaborate with team members

Job Qualifications

  • A.S. or equivalent experience
  • Culinary or kitchen management experience, depending upon formal degree or training
  • Experience with high volume, complex foodservice operations
  • Knowledge of institutional and batch cooking
  • Comprehensive knowledge of food and catering trends focused on quality, production, sanitation, food cost controls, and presentation
  • Computer proficiency
  • ServSafe certified

Job Duties

  • Assist the Executive Chef and culinary team with managing cost controls and control expenditures for the account
  • Assist the Executive Chef and culinary team with planning and creating menus
  • Produce and execute catering events
  • Roll out new culinary programs in conjunction with the marketing and culinary teams
  • Foster strong client relationships to align our programs with their objectives, driving satisfaction and retention
  • Perform other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of dining service operations

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


Job Location

Your Profile Is Visible To Hiring Managers Across OysterLink.

We'll match you with best jobs

Get job offers faster

Business woman
Business man
Search For More Opportunities:

How Candidates Get Hired Faster

Apply to 2–3 similar roles

Complete profile & get best matches

Check new opportunities daily

Woman chef
Man chef