Campus Production Chef Lead - High-Volume Dining

Thompson Hospitality; Hampton (VA); On-site; USD 52,000 - 72,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive pay

Medical, dental, and vision benefits

Paid time off and holidays

401(k) with company match

Career advancement opportunities

Employee meal program

Job summary

Thompson Hospitality seeks a Production Chef to lead daily high-volume campus dining operations at Hampton University. You will oversee production, ensure quality, safety, and consistency, and mentor kitchen staff in a fast-paced environment.

As part of the culinary leadership, you’ll collaborate with the Executive Chef to optimize menus and guest satisfaction while maintaining strict food safety standards and efficient operations.

Qualifications

• 3–5 years of culinary experience in high-volume food service or similar environment.
• Supervisory or team leadership experience preferred.
• Strong knowledge of batch cooking, production planning, and kitchen operations.
• Experience with recipe adherence, portion control, and inventory management.
• Working knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and HACCP principles.
• Ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills.
• Culinary degree or equivalent experience preferred.
• ServSafe Certification preferred or ability to obtain after hire.

Responsibilities

• Lead daily food production for residential, retail, and catered events.
• Prepare and oversee high-volume production while maintaining quality and presentation.
• Ensure recipes, portion sizes, and production standards are consistently followed.
• Coordinate production schedules to meet service demands and minimize waste.
• Supervise, coach, and develop cooks and food service staff.
• Monitor food quality through preparation, holding, and service.
• Maintain compliance with health department regulations and HACCP standards.
• Assist with inventory management, ordering, receiving, and rotation.
• Support menu execution, seasonal offerings, and campus events.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and safe kitchen environment.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef to improve efficiencies and guest experience.

Skills

Batch cooking

Kitchen operations

Team leadership

Food safety

Communication

Education

Culinary degree or equivalent

Job description

Thompson Hospitality seeks a Production Chef to lead daily high-volume campus dining operations at Hampton University. You will oversee production, ensure quality, safety, and consistency, and mentor kitchen staff in a fast-paced environment.

As part of the culinary leadership, you’ll collaborate with the Executive Chef to optimize menus and guest satisfaction while maintaining strict food safety standards and efficient operations.