Chef

About the role

Great Western Dining Service is a forward-thinking food service management company that recognizes the profound impact of exceptional cuisine. We believe that food fosters connection, cultivates the community, and creates enduring memories. We are committed to cultivating a professional environment that values creativity, innovation, and collaboration. Our diverse team members are empowered to contribute fresh perspectives and inspired ideas, resulting in distinctive and memorable dining experiences for our guests.

This position is based at Allen Community College in Iola, KS. The Chef is responsible for planning, preparing, and overseeing the preparation of high-quality, nutritious meals for college students, faculty, and staff. The role includes menu development, food preparation, supervision of kitchen staff, ensuring food safety compliance, and contributing to an inclusive dining experience that supports a diverse campus community.

Responsibilities

• Carries out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws
• Menu development, inventory, purchasing, labor and food cost controls, maintaining sanitation standards
• Participates in employee meetings and training programs
• Conducts safety, sanitation and maintenance programs
• Maintains food cost while ensuring quality standards
• Maintains an active role in managing team developments
• Personnel management to include hiring, coaching, counseling, training and developing
• Manages purchasing and inventory controls
• Performs related duties and special projects as assigned
• When acting as interim Food Service Director, responsible for all activity in the account and staff management

Requirements

• Degree in Culinary Arts is preferred or equivalent professional experience
• Experience in personnel management
• Self-starter, innovative and ability to multitask
• Maintains a positive attitude under pressure and ability to motivate a team
• Must possess a passion for excellence
• Knowledgeable on HACCP controls along with proper storage and use of food
• Purchasing, food storage and sanitation experience
• P&L and financial reporting experience
• Knowledge of budgets, labor costs, inventory controls
• Strong leadership, coaching and training skills
• Computer skills: proficient in Microsoft Office and POS
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Exceptional business etiquette and client relations
• Knowledge of safe and sanitary food handling principles
• Conformity to the highest standards of personal integrity and ethical behavior
• SERV Safe or Department of Health certification a plus

Physical Requirements

• Continuous walking/standing and other means of mobility up to 8 hours a day
• Ability to reach, bend, stoop, push/pull and frequently lift/move up to 30 pounds

Benefits

Great Western Dining Service offers a comprehensive benefits package, flexible scheduling that aligns with our core value of work-life balance, and robust opportunities for ongoing training and professional development. As we continue to grow, we provide accelerated career advancement opportunities for dedicated and driven team members.