Catering Chef

Catering ChefImpressions Catering | ESS Support ServicesPOSITION SUMMARYWe are seeking an experienced, hands-on Catering Chef to oversee all aspects of catering operations, including menu development, food costing, event planning, preparation, and execution. This position combines culinary expertise, operational leadership, and customer service to deliver exceptional catering experiences.The Catering Chef Manager works directly with clients, leads catering staff, and supports the Executive Chef with daily kitchen operations. This position requires a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIESCatering Operations & Event ExecutionPlan, organize, prepare, and execute catering events while ensuring exceptional food quality, presentation, and service.Develop menus, establish recipes, calculate food costs, and maintain portion controls.Work directly with clients to coordinate menus, accommodate requests, and meet event expectations.Coordinate event logistics, including staffing, equipment, food preparation, setup, service, and breakdown.Manage catering inventory, supplies, equipment, and food production while controlling costs and minimizing waste.Culinary & Kitchen ManagementPrepare and cook food according to approved recipes, production standards, and deadlines.Support the Executive Chef with daily kitchen operations and fill in for the Production Lead as needed.Ensure compliance with food safety, sanitation, storage, and temperature requirements.Monitor inventory, deliveries, food consumption, and waste.Maintain clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen facilities, equipment, and workstations.Team Leadership & Customer ServiceSupervise, train, coach, and develop catering and food service associates.Coordinate staffing and scheduling for catering events.Assist with hiring, onboarding, performance evaluations, and employee counseling.Provide hands-on leadership during events to ensure quality and service standards.Build positive client relationships, address concerns, and resolve service issues professionally.Communicate effectively with management, clients, and catering staff.QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCEPrevious catering, culinary management, or food service leadership experience.Strong culinary skills, including menu development, food costing, and production.Experience planning and executing catering events.Knowledge of inventory management, cost controls, and waste reduction.Ability to supervise, train, and motivate food service teams.Strong organizational, communication, and customer service skills.Knowledge of food safety and sanitation requirements.Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines.Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.We are looking for a hands-on culinary leader who takes ownership of catering operations from start to finish, delivers exceptional food and service, and supports daily kitchen operations when needed.Additional duties may be assigned based on operational needs.Full-time and part-time positions offer the following benefits to associates: Retirement Plan, Associate Shopping Program, Health and Wellness Programs, Discount Marketplace, Identity Theft Protection, Pet Insurance, Voluntary Benefits, including Critical Illness Insurance, Accident Insurance, Hospital Indemnity Insurance, Legal Services, and Choice Auto and Home Program, Paid Parental Leave and Personal Leave Full-time positions also offer the following benefits to associates: Medical, Dental, Vision, Life Insurance/AD, Disability Insurance, Commuter Benefits, Employee Assistance Program, Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)About Compass Group: Achieving leadership in the foodservice industry 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. Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles' Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: are accepted on an ongoing basis.ESS maintains a drug-free workplace.Req ID: 1571233