Sous Chef - Tinton Falls, NJ

Flik Independent School Dining has been leading the way in transforming private and independent school foodservice across 300 communities for over four decades. Our passionate team of associates is fully committed to delivering exceptional foodservice experiences every single time. Our meals are crafted from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, supporting sustainable agricultural practices that benefit our communities. We offer cutting-edge nutrition education programs that empower students to make smart, healthy choices daily.

About the role

As a Sous Chef, you will play a key leadership role in supporting the culinary operations of a dynamic K–12 school dining program. Reporting to the Executive Chef, you will assist with daily food production, menu development, catering execution, inventory management, and the supervision of hourly kitchen associates. This is an exciting opportunity for an upbeat and motivated culinary professional with a passion for scratch cooking, creativity, and perfection in food quality and presentation.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, production, and supervision of back-of-house staff.
• Support cost control initiatives by assisting with inventory management, ordering, and minimizing food waste.
• Help plan, develop, and implement menus that align with company culinary standards, student preferences, and nutritional guidelines.
• Lead or support the preparation and execution of catered events, ensuring high-quality food, presentation, and service.
• Implement and support new culinary programs and initiatives in collaboration with the Executive Chef and corporate culinary team.
• Ensure all food safety and sanitation guidelines are rigorously followed, including compliance with HACCP and allergy protocols.
• Maintain high standards for food quality, cleanliness, and organization in all kitchen areas.
• Participate in training and mentoring hourly culinary staff to support skill development and team culture.
• Champion a safe, inclusive, and collaborative kitchen environment that reflects the values of the school community and company.

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of dynamic culinary or kitchen management experience in high-volume foodservice operations; K–12, institutional, or contract dining preferred.
• Strong catering experience and ability to lead special events.
• Knowledge of scratch cooking, batch production, and food cost controls.
• Confirmed understanding of food trends, seasonal ingredients, and sustainable practices.
• ServSafe Certification highly preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Outlook, and internet-based tools.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills with a strong sense of ownership and collaboration.
• Dedication to customer happiness and a passion for crafting delicious, nutritious meals for students and school communities.

Pay

$70,000 - $73,000 / year

Benefits

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