SOUS CHEF - The George Washington University - Washington, DC

Sous Chef Opportunity

The George Washington University is seeking a passionate and driven Sous Chef to support the successful operation of a high-profile, dynamic culinary program on campus. This role is ideal for an energetic, entrepreneurial culinary professional who thrives in a fast-paced, high-volume environment and enjoys mentoring teams, executing catering events, and contributing creatively to menu development.

Working closely with the Executive Chef, the Sous Chef plays a key leadership role in daily kitchen operations, menu execution, catering, and the rollout of innovative culinary programs. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make an impact within a respected academic institution while maintaining a strong focus on quality, creativity, and operational excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Executive Chef in overseeing day-to-day culinary operations for the account
• Assist with menu planning, development, and execution, ensuring variety, creativity, and quality
• Supervise, train, and mentor hourly culinary associates, fostering a positive and professional kitchen culture
• Execute and produce catering events, ranging from small meetings to large-scale campus functions
• Assist with cost controls, food cost management, and expense monitoring
• Partner with the company's marketing and culinary teams to roll out new culinary programs and concepts
• Ensure adherence to food safety, sanitation, and quality standards at all times
• Participate in client and guest satisfaction initiatives, contributing to a best-in-class dining experience
• Assist with ordering, inventory management, and production planning

Preferred Qualifications

• Associate's Degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent professional experience
• Progressive culinary or kitchen management experience, based on education and training
• Catering experience strongly preferred
• Experience in high-volume, complex foodservice operations highly desirable
• Exposure to institutional dining and batch cooking environments a plus
• Strong knowledge of current food and catering trends, with an emphasis on:
• Quality and presentation
• Production efficiency
• Sanitation and food safety
• Food and labor cost controls
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Outlook, email, and internet-based tools
• Willingness to engage in client satisfaction programs and campus initiatives
• ServSafe certification highly desirable

Why This Opportunity Stands Out

• Work in a vibrant university setting in the heart of Washington, DC
• Be part of a collaborative culinary leadership team
• Opportunity to influence menu innovation and large-scale events
• Stability and structure of an institutional environment with room for creativity and growth

Chartwells Higher Education is a member of Compass Group USA

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.

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Chartwells Higher Ed maintains a drug-free workplace.

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/ AD
• 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

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws.