Campus Dining Sous Chef: Lead Kitchen & Menu Excellence

Vanderbilt; Nashville (TN); On-site; USD 52,000 - 78,000; Full time

Job summary

Vanderbilt University is seeking a Sous Chef for Campus Dining to lead daily kitchen operations at a designated location. You will supervise staff, plan menus, ensure quality and sanitation, and partner with the unit manager as needed. This role emphasizes sustainability, teamwork, and exemplary culinary execution.

You will manage inventory, control costs, and use menu systems to maintain nutrition data while supporting a positive, inclusive work culture on campus in Nashville.

Qualifications

• High school diploma or GED required.
• Associate's degree in Culinary Arts preferred.
• Minimum of three (3) years' experience in the food & beverage industry preferred.
• Minimum of one (1) year experience in a culinary management role preferred.
• Operational experience with food service applications and computerized menu management systems preferred.
• ServSafe Manager certification within 30 days of hire is required.
• AllerTrain U certification within 30 days of hire is necessary.
• Ability to teach, coach, mentor and assess performance; take corrective actions when needed.
• Ability to learn and adapt to new systems and applications.
• Strong computer skills in Microsoft Office applications.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day kitchen operations including food preparation, presentation, portioning and sanitation.
• Ensure quality, consistency and timeliness of meals.
• Utilize menu management systems to maintain accurate menu and nutritional information.
• Monitor storage, temperatures and sanitation to comply with safety standards.
• Supervise, train, coach and develop culinary staff; foster teamwork and continuous improvement.
• Ensure compliance with policies and collective bargaining agreement including documentation.
• Promote safe work practices and a productive, inclusive environment.
• Manage inventory and order supplies to meet service needs within budget.
• Identify waste reduction opportunities and cost-control measures.

Skills

Leadership

Staff coaching

Food safety

Menu systems

Microsoft Office

Education

Associate's degree in Culinary Arts

High school diploma or GED

Tools

Menu management systems

Microsoft Office

Job description

Vanderbilt University is seeking a Sous Chef for Campus Dining to lead daily kitchen operations at a designated location. You will supervise staff, plan menus, ensure quality and sanitation, and partner with the unit manager as needed. This role emphasizes sustainability, teamwork, and exemplary culinary execution.

You will manage inventory, control costs, and use menu systems to maintain nutrition data while supporting a positive, inclusive work culture on campus in Nashville.