EXECUTIVE CHEF - Lawton Public Schools, Oklahoma

Job Summary

Step into something exciting—a brand-new Chartwells food service partnership with Lawton Public Schools, serving 14,000 students across 27 schools—where you’ll help build a dynamic culinary program from the ground up. As Executive Chef, you’ll play a central role in shaping menus, elevating food quality, and creating a dining experience that’s fresh, innovative, and something students look forward to every day. Best of all, you’ll enjoy a fantastic work-life balance with no nights, weekends, or holidays—so you’ll be home cooking dinner in your own kitchen most evenings (pending business needs).

Key Responsibilities

• Develops regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards, ensuring adherence to portioning and presentation guidelines.
• Trains kitchen staff in food preparation, equipment operation, and safety protocols, promoting a culture of excellence.
• Establishes and maintains thorough cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment and work areas.
• Handles inventory of food and supplies, optimizing utilization while ensuring vital products are readily available.
• Ensures compliance with health and sanitation regulations through meticulous adherence to department procedures and participation in audits.
• Actively participates in departmental meetings, staff development initiatives, and professional programs to stay abreast of industry trends.
• Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of a dining service operation.

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate’s degree highly desired or equivalent experience in culinary arts.
• 5+ years of progressive culinary/kitchen management experience, with catering experience preferred.
• Proven success in high-volume, complex foodservice operations, with a solid base in institutional and batch cooking.
• Hands-on chef experience is critical, accompanied by extensive knowledge of food trends, emphasizing quality, production, sanitation, cost control, and presentation.
• Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office suite and email systems.
• Willingness to actively engage in client satisfaction programs and activities.
• ServSafe certification is highly desirable, highlighting a commitment to food safety.