Sous Chef - K12 Food Service, Houston, TX

Job Overview

briefcase

Employment Type

Full-time
moneybag

Compensation

Salary
Exact $75,000.00
clock

Work Schedule

Standard Hours
diamond

Benefits

Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
Life insurance
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
Paid parental leave
Personal Leave

Job Description

Chartwells K12 is a leading provider of foodservice management for K-12 schools across the United States. With over 16,000 associates serving in approximately 4,500 schools ranging from large public districts to small charter and private institutions, Chartwells K12 brings decades of experience in food, education, and operational excellence. The company prioritizes nutritional value, culinary innovation, wellness, and sustainability to enhance the dining experience for students. Chartwells K12 is part of Compass Group USA, a global leader in foodservice and support services, committed to delivering quality and improving the health and happiness of students through enjoyable and nutritious meals. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.

The Sous Chef position at Chartwells K12 is a dynamic and rewarding role focused on leading culinary operations within the Houston, TX market. This role plays a key part in orchestrating the preparation and delivery of high-quality, nutritious meals tailored for diverse student populations in K-12 schools. Working under the direction of the Director of Dining Services, the Sous Chef will provide hands-on leadership, mentoring frontline kitchen teams, and driving culinary creativity and excellence. This role emphasizes food safety, consistency, and execution, ensuring all meals meet stringent quality standards. The Sous Chef will also support innovative initiatives such as Discovery Kitchen and annual culinary competitions, while managing food costs and inventory with a keen eye on efficiency and quality.

This position is ideal for a motivated self-starter who thrives in fast-paced, collaborative environments and enjoys engaging with students while fostering strong, effective teams. The role carries a competitive salary of $75,000 and offers an excellent work-life balance with a Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 4 PM schedule. Additional benefits include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision insurance, a 401(k) retirement plan, paid time off, and various wellness programs. This full-time role offers the opportunity to grow professionally while positively impacting student health and wellbeing through exceptional culinary leadership.

Job Requirements

  • High school diploma or equivalent
  • Minimum five years of culinary experience with at least one year in a supervisory role
  • Knowledge of food safety and sanitation regulations
  • Ability to manage food cost and inventory
  • Strong communication and leadership abilities
  • Ability to work Monday to Friday, 7 AM to 4 PM schedule
  • Ability to pass background screening if applicable
  • Ability to perform essential duties with or without reasonable accommodation

Job Qualifications

  • Five years of related culinary experience including one year at the management level
  • Experience in restaurants, hotels, corporate dining, education, military, health care, or related food service operations
  • Knowledge of food industry trends focusing on quality, production, sanitation, safety, food cost controls, and presentation
  • Ability to set up and distribute production sheets
  • Strong supervisory, leadership, training, management, and coaching skills
  • ServSafe or Department of Health Certification preferred
  • Computer skills including proficiency in MS Office, particularly Excel
  • Associate's degree in Culinary Arts preferred

Job Duties

  • Assist in coordinating and participating in the preparation and cooking of various food items
  • Assist with planning and creating menus
  • Roll out new culinary programs in conjunction with the marketing and culinary team
  • Assist with managing cost controls and controlling expenditure
  • Provide leadership and mentorship to frontline culinary teams
  • Ensure compliance with food safety and sanitation standards
  • Perform other duties as assigned

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