Campus Dining Director & Culinary Innovator

Thehighlandscollege; Birmingham, Northern (AL, KY); Hybrid; USD 70,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

Highlands College is seeking an Executive Chef to provide strategic leadership for all campus dining operations. You will shape and execute a compelling dining vision that supports the college mission, delivers an exceptional experience, and steward resources.

You will oversee menu development, culinary standards, financial performance, and cross-campus collaboration with Operations, Advancement, and Student Life to drive growth while maintaining a mission-centered culinary culture.

Qualifications

• Minimum of a 2 year associate degree in culinary arts or equivalent.
• 4-year Bachelor of Culinary Arts preferred from CIA or similar reputable culinary college.
• Certified Executive Chef certification preferred.

Responsibilities

• Lead culinary operations across Highlands College dining venues.
• Develop menus, standards, and recipes with consistency and quality.
• Oversee budgeting, food costs, and labor management.
• Ensure health, safety, and sanitation compliance.
• Collaborate with campus partners to enhance student experience.

Skills

Public speaking

Relationship building

Knife skills

Menu design

Team development

Sensory evaluation

Education

Associate degree in culinary arts

Bachelor of Culinary Arts

Certified Executive Chef

Job description

Highlands College is seeking an Executive Chef to provide strategic leadership for all campus dining operations. You will shape and execute a compelling dining vision that supports the college mission, delivers an exceptional experience, and steward resources.

You will oversee menu development, culinary standards, financial performance, and cross-campus collaboration with Operations, Advancement, and Student Life to drive growth while maintaining a mission-centered culinary culture.