Head Cook 00466

Departmental Objective

Our mission is to serve quality products with fast and friendly service in a clean atmosphere.

Purpose of the Position

Under the direction of the Director of Catering/Executive Chef and Sous Chef Manager, this position oversees and participates in the planning, production, storage, rotation, and preparation of food items for Christopher Newport University’s catering events. The role directs all kitchen activities to ensure food items are prepared in appropriate quantities and according to established quality guidelines for customer needs.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Ability to read and write
• Demonstrated basic math skills
• Knowledge of all types of cooking methods and converting recipes
• Knowledge of all kitchen equipment
• Good organizational skills
• Ability to complete multiple tasks concurrently
• Effective written and verbal communication with supervisors and subordinates
• Ability to stand for prolonged periods of time
• Ability to work in congested work areas and in wet-process environments
• Willingness to wear protective footwear
• Demonstrated ability to work in a fast‑paced atmosphere
• Ability to work independently at remote satellite kitchens or catering sites
• Flexibility to work varying shifts, including early mornings, nights, and weekends

Education and Experience

Education: High school graduate or equivalent education/experience that equates to a high school diploma.

• Additional consideration: some culinary art school courses.

Experience: Experience working in a kitchen at any of the following establishments: fine dining restaurant, campus dining facility, hotel/resort, country club, or military food service facility.

• Additional consideration: supervisory experience.

Licensure and Certifications

• ServSafe certificate (preferred)
• Valid driver’s license

Salary

$35,477 to $44,346, commensurate with education and experience.

Benefits

This position includes Commonwealth of Virginia and Christopher Newport University employee benefits, including retirement plans, medical, dental, vision, and a variety of other options. Available leave includes vacation, sick time, personal time, and volunteer/service leave. State employees are eligible for discounted travel, banking, legal, and retail services. For full details, visit CNU Benefits.

Conditions of Employment

This is a classified position. New and returning classified employees must complete a 12‑month probationary period and attend a 2‑day New Employee Orientation Program. The role is designated as a “responsible employee” with authority to redress sexual violence and a duty to report incidents. It is also a “designated position” that may be required to work during an emergency closing. The position is restricted and subject to availability of funding.

Physical and Cognitive Requirements

• Light lifting (less than 20 lb.) – essential
• Moderate lifting (20–50 lb.) – essential
• Heavy lifting (more than 50 lb.) – essential
• Pushing/pulling – essential
• Standing – essential
• Walking, bending, climbing, reaching – essential
• Fast‑pace work environment – essential
• Multiple priorities, intense customer interaction, frequent changes – essential
• Memory, reasoning, hearing, reading, analyzing, logic, verbal and written communication – essential