Executive Chef & Kitchen Manager, University Dining

University of Rochester; Frederick (MD); On-site; USD 64,000 - 96,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Rochester's dining program seeks an experienced kitchen leader to oversee day-to-day operations, manage culinary staff, and collaborate with leadership to deliver high-quality meals for students, faculty, and staff.

This role emphasizes menu planning, food safety, budgeting, and staff mentorship to drive culinary excellence and innovation across campus dining services.

Qualifications

• Culinary Arts degree or equivalent with 5 years of professional kitchen experience, 2 in a leadership role.
• Equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Proven experience managing kitchen staff and ensuring smooth operations.

Responsibilities

• Oversees day-to-day operations of the kitchen within the dining program.
• Manages a team of culinary staff and coordinates with culinary leadership.
• Ensures compliance with food safety standards and proper allergen handling.
• Participates in menu planning, inventory, and budgeting.
• Supports staff scheduling and labor cost management.
• Leads training, development, and performance discussions.
• Supports special events, catering, and dining promotions.
• Maintains high standards of taste, presentation, and nutrition.

Skills

Food safety

Leadership

Communication

Organization

Budgeting

Time management

Staff development

Meal planning

Education

Culinary Arts degree

Equivalent training

Tools

Kitchen equipment

Job description

The University of Rochester's dining program seeks an experienced kitchen leader to oversee day-to-day operations, manage culinary staff, and collaborate with leadership to deliver high-quality meals for students, faculty, and staff.

This role emphasizes menu planning, food safety, budgeting, and staff mentorship to drive culinary excellence and innovation across campus dining services.