Executive Chef, K-12 Dining - Menu & Events Leader

Compass Group USA; Pottstown (Montgomery County); On-site; USD 70,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical

Vision

Life Insurance/AD

Disability Insurance

Retirement Plan

Paid Time Off

Job summary

Chartwells K-12, part of Compass Group USA, seeks an Executive Chef to oversee the K-12 culinary program in a district setting. You’ll lead daily operations, ensure high-quality meals, and support student engagement initiatives while managing catered events.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong menu and staff development skills, and a focus on safety, sanitation, cost control, and presentation across multiple sites.

Qualifications

• Associate's degree desired or equivalent experience in culinary arts.
• Two plus years of culinary/kitchen management experience, with catering experience preferred.
• Proven success in complex foodservice operations, with a solid base in institutional and batch cooking.
• Hands-on chef experience is critical, accompanied by solid knowledge of food trends, emphasizing quality, production, sanitation, cost control, and presentation.
• Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office.
• Willingness to actively engage in client satisfaction programs and activities.

Responsibilities

• Develops regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards, ensuring adherence to portioning and presentation guidelines.
• Trains kitchen staff in food preparation, equipment operation, and safety protocols, promoting a culture of excellence.
• Establishes and maintains thorough cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment and work areas.
• Handles inventory of food and supplies, optimizing utilization while ensuring vital products are readily available.
• Ensures compliance with health and sanitation regulations through meticulous adherence to department procedures and participation in audits.
• Actively participates in departmental meetings, staff development initiatives, and professional programs to stay abreast of industry trends.
• Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of a dining service operation.

Skills

Kitchen management

Menu development

Staff training

Food quality & presentation

Health & sanitation

Cost control

Client customer satisfaction

Microsoft Office

Education

Associate's degree in culinary arts or equivalent

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Chartwells K-12, part of Compass Group USA, seeks an Executive Chef to oversee the K-12 culinary program in a district setting. You’ll lead daily operations, ensure high-quality meals, and support student engagement initiatives while managing catered events.

The role requires hands-on leadership, strong menu and staff development skills, and a focus on safety, sanitation, cost control, and presentation across multiple sites.