EXECUTIVE SOUS CHEF - Montclair State University - Montclair, NJ

Job Summary

This is a great opportunity to join a dynamic and growing organization in a high-visibility campus dining environment. We are seeking a growth-minded Executive Sous Chef / Chef Manager to lead a smaller residential dining hall serving 1,000–1,200 students daily.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the full culinary and food service operation, including:
• Inventory management, ordering, and receiving
• Food and labor cost control
• Menu planning and execution across 20+ global cuisines
• Drive exceptional dining experiences with a focus on quality, variety, and presentation
• Manage and develop culinary teams while maintaining high standards of food safety, sanitation, and efficiency
• Oversee P&L accountability and contribute to overall financial performance
• Implement and lead zero-waste and sustainability initiatives, including:
• Local sourcing strategies
• Waste reduction programs
• Responsible purchasing practices
• Maintain strong operational systems for inventory accuracy and product utilization

What We’re Looking For

• Passion for multi-cultural cuisine and innovative dining programs
• Proven ability to manage high-volume campus or hospitality operations
• Strong leadership presence with a focus on team development and engagement
• Hands-on, execution-focused leader comfortable in both kitchen and management roles

Preferred Qualifications

• Minimum 3 years of culinary management experience in:
• Contract food service (strongly preferred for your environment)
• Campus dining, fine dining, or high-volume restaurant settings
• Experience with:
• Inventory control and purchasing systems
• Food & labor cost management
• High-volume, multi-station service models
• Strong knowledge of:
• Food and catering trends
• Production, sanitation, and presentation standards
• HACCP knowledge required
• ServSafe certification preferred
• Experience with exhibition / interactive cooking highly desirable

Why This Role Stands Out

• Exposure to 23 diverse cuisines / concepts in one location
• Opportunity to lead meaningful sustainability initiatives
• High-impact role feeding a large student population daily
• Clear growth path within a well-established organization

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retail Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Paid Parental Leave
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
• Personal Leave
• Associate Shopping Program
• Health and Wellness Programs
• Discount Marketplace
• Identity Theft Protection
• Pet Insurance
• Commuter Benefits
• Employee Assistance Program
• Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)

Equal Opportunity Employer

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.