Banquet Lead Chef - Global Events & Culinary Leadership

International House at UC Berkeley; Berkeley (CA); On-site; USD 81,000 - 84,000; Full time

Job summary

International House at UC Berkeley seeks a hands-on banquet chef to lead planning, production, and delivery for all events. You will manage menus, schedules, and BEOs, ensuring on-time, on-budget service that meets I-House standards.

The role requires excellent English communication, 3–5 years of culinary leadership, and the ability to supervise a diverse team in a fast-paced, multicultural kitchen.

Qualifications

• A culinary degree or equivalent professional training is required.
• 3–5 years of progressive culinary experience is required.
• Strong English communication; ability to multi-task and manage time.
• Experience preparing international cuisines and accommodating diverse dietary needs (vegetarian, vegan, halal, kosher, gluten-free, etc.).
• Strong knowledge of food safety standards, kitchen management, and inventory control.
• Experience managing and motivating a diverse kitchen staff.
• Excellent organizational, communication, and leadership skills.
• Commitment to the values of diversity, equity, inclusion, and intercultural understanding.
• Ability to lead in a unionized environment.
• Must be able to work in person in Berkeley, CA.
• Schedule flexibility to work some evenings, weekends, and holidays.

Responsibilities

• Provide food preparation and execution for events of all sizes
• Translate BEOs into prep lists and production schedules
• Place orders, receive deliveries, and verify quality and pricing
• Manage inventory, minimize waste, and meet food cost targets
• Develop menus, portions, and recipe specifications
• Ensure consistent food delivery, timing, and presentation
• Enforce HACCP and food safety standards
• Supervise and train kitchen staff; foster inclusive culture
• Create and manage staffing schedules
• Brief staff on upcoming events and coordinate with events staff
• Proactively collaborate with events staff for successful events
• Foster a positive, respectful kitchen culture
• Other duties as assigned.

Skills

Culinary management

Food safety

Staff leadership

Time management

English communication

Education

Culinary degree

Equivalent training

Job description

International House at UC Berkeley seeks a hands-on banquet chef to lead planning, production, and delivery for all events. You will manage menus, schedules, and BEOs, ensuring on-time, on-budget service that meets I-House standards.

The role requires excellent English communication, 3–5 years of culinary leadership, and the ability to supervise a diverse team in a fast-paced, multicultural kitchen.