Chef

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.

About the role

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. You will manage back-of-the-house operations, maintain a quality culinary program, and handle financial reporting.

When acting as an interim Food Service Director, you will oversee all account activity and staff management.

Responsibilities

• Carry out supervisory responsibilities in accordance with the organization's policies and applicable laws
• Menu development, inventory, purchasing, labor and food cost controls, and maintaining sanitation standards
• Participate in employee meetings and training programs
• Conduct safety, sanitation, and maintenance programs
• Maintain food cost while ensuring quality standards
• Actively manage team development
• Personnel management, including hiring, coaching, counseling, training, and developing staff
• Manage purchasing and inventory controls
• Perform related duties and special projects as assigned

Requirements

• Degree in Culinary Arts preferred or equivalent professional experience
• Experience in personnel management
• Self-starter with innovation and multitasking abilities
• Maintain a positive attitude under pressure and motivate a team
• Passion for excellence
• Knowledgeable on HACCP controls, proper food storage, and use of food
• Purchasing, food storage, and sanitation experience
• P&L and financial reporting experience
• Knowledge of budgets, labor costs, and 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. We provide accelerated career advancement opportunities for dedicated and driven team members.