Culinary Manager

Academic-Year Position | Harvard Square, Cambridge, MA Position Overview The Owl Club is seeking an energetic, organized, and hospitality-focused Chef to oversee the culinary operations of one of Harvard University's most historic undergraduate social organizations. This unique position follows the academic calendar, with employment running from late August through the end of May each year. The successful candidate will enjoy summers off (June through August), providing the opportunity to pursue other professional opportunities, travel, spend time with family, or enjoy an extended break between academic years. The Chef will be responsible for menu planning, food purchasing, preparation, execution, kitchen sanitation, inventory management, and overall culinary leadership for member dining and special events throughout the academic year. The Chef plays an important role in fostering community within the Club, helping create memorable experiences through weekly meal service and signature events such as the Punch Events, Final Dinner IC Dinners, Owl and IC Initiation Dinner, Senior Week, and alumni gatherings. This role is ideal for someone who enjoys working independently, takes pride in their craft, and is looking for a position that offers both responsibility and work-life balance. While the majority of the position follows a weekday schedule, candidates should understand that several evening and weekend events occur throughout the academic year. These events are generally known at the beginning of each semester and are highly predictable from year to year, allowing for advance planning and scheduling. Who Should Apply We welcome applicants from a variety of culinary backgrounds. This position may be an ideal next step for a: Sous Chef seeking their first kitchen leadership role Banquet Chef looking for greater autonomy and creativity Chef de Partie or experienced cook ready to take on menu planning and purchasing responsibilities Culinary professional seeking a more predictable schedule than traditional restaurant operations You do not need Executive Chef experience to be successful in this role. We are looking for someone who is organized, dependable, hospitality‑minded, and passionate about creating quality meals and memorable experiences. Regular Meal Service Meal counts fluctuate throughout the year based on athletic travel schedules, weather, academic commitments, and guest attendance. Fall Semester Typical weekly meal service includes: Tuesday Lunch: Approximately 50 guests Wednesday Lunch: Approximately 50 guests Thursday Dinner: Approximately 100 guests Friday Brunch: Approximately 50 guests Following Initiation Dinner, membership typically increases by approximately 30 undergraduate members. Actual meal participation varies depending on schedules and athletic commitments. Spring Semester Typical weekly meal service includes: Tuesday Lunch: Approximately 60 guests Wednesday Lunch: Approximately 60 guests Thursday Dinner: Approximately 100 guests Friday Brunch: Approximately 60 guests Attendance continues to fluctuate based on athletic schedules, travel, and academic obligations. Special Events In addition to weekly meal service, the Chef will be expected to execute and support a variety of special events throughout the academic year. Fall Semester Welcome Back Cookout in September Potential off‑site cookout in October Depending on the event location, this may involve menu planning and procurement only Typically featuring hors d'oeuvres and display platters Minimum of two IC Dinners Initiation Dinner Final Dinner Winter Break The Club traditionally closes from Christmas through mid‑January. The Owl Club is currently exploring the possibility of offering limited meal service during January for student‑athletes and other students remaining on campus. If implemented, expectations and scheduling will be discussed in advance. Spring Semester Minimum of two IC Dinners (occasionally three, depending on scheduling) Additional member and guest events as scheduled The Club hosts several additional social events and parties throughout the spring semester; however, these events typically do not require food service or culinary support from the Chef. Senior Week & Graduation Activities As the academic year concludes, the Chef will play a key role in several important traditions, including: Cocktail Reception on May 15 (only 2027, as this is typically in NYC) Culinary support for post‑dinner festivities following the annual event at the Charles Hotel May include dessert displays upon return to the Club Senior Week Inter‑Club Dinner for invited seniors from other final clubs Two Senior Week Lunches Senior Dinner Senior Brunch featuring an omelet station Graduation Night light snack platters for members participating in Senior Sunrise celebrations (can be left, do not need to be attended) Academic Calendar & Time Off The Owl Club follows Harvard University's academic calendar. The Owl Club follows Harvard University's academic calendar, which includes a winter recess in January and a Spring Break period during the semester. These breaks provide an opportunity for the Chef to focus on projects that are often difficult to accomplish during the regular dining schedule, including deep cleaning, kitchen organization, inventory review, menu planning, equipment maintenance coordination, and preparation for upcoming events and meal service. While daily attendance is not required during these academic breaks, the Chef is expected to take ownership of the kitchen and ensure that all culinary spaces, equipment, and storage areas remain clean, organized, and prepared for the return of students. The Club is also exploring opportunities to provide limited food offerings during January for student‑athletes and other members who remain on campus during the academic recess. This may include prepared meals, grab‑and‑go items, or stocked refrigerator offerings. The Graduate Board continues to evaluate these options, and any future programming will be discussed with the Chef in advance. Following Commencement activities and reunion weekend, the position concludes for the academic year, allowing the Chef to enjoy the summer months off from approximately June through late August. Alumni & Reunion Events The Club periodically hosts reunion dinners and alumni events throughout the year and early June during reunion weekend at Harvard. These events are generally compensated separately and are not included in the base salary structure. Plan and prepare all scheduled meals and special event menus Purchase food, beverages, and kitchen supplies within established budgets Manage inventory and food cost controls Maintain proper food safety and sanitation standards Ensure kitchen cleanliness and organization Coordinate culinary aspects of Club events Collaborate with the General Manager regarding menus, budgets, and event planning Develop menus that appeal to a diverse undergraduate membership Maximize product utilization and minimize waste Maintain a professional and welcoming kitchen environment Execute occasional evening and weekend events throughout the academic year Qualifications Previous culinary leadership experience preferred Experience as a Sous Chef, Banquet Chef, Chef de Partie, or similar role encouraged Strong organizational and time‑management skills Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities Experience with purchasing, budgeting, and inventory control Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards ServSafe Certification preferred Experience executing catered and banquet‑style events a plus Strong interpersonal skills and ability to interact positively with students, alumni, guests, and vendors Schedule & Compensation This position follows Harvard University's academic calendar and is primarily a weekday position. However, candidates should expect several evening and weekend events throughout the year in addition to the standard weekly schedule. These events are generally scheduled well in advance and are consistent from year to year, allowing for personal planning. Compensation: $55,000-$60,000 seasonal salary, paid bi‑weekly from late August through late May and commensurate with experience. Equivalent bi‑weekly compensation ranges from approximately $2,115 to $2,308, depending on experience and qualifications. Additional compensation opportunities may be available through select alumni and reunion events. The Club does not currently offer a traditional benefits package; however, for the right candidate, a contribution toward an individual health insurance plan may be considered. Why This Position Is Unique Unlike traditional restaurant positions that require year‑round schedules, late nights, weekends, and holidays, this role offers a rare opportunity to create meaningful dining experiences while enjoying a predictable academic calendar and extended summer flexibility. The Owl Club values hospitality, tradition, and community. We are seeking a chef who takes pride in their work, enjoys building relationships, and wants to become an important part of the Club's culture and traditions. If you are looking for a position that combines creativity, independence, leadership, and quality of life, we would love to hear from you. #J-18808-Ljbffr Owl Club