K-12 Sous Chef — Lead Scratch Kitchen & Catering

Compass Group USA; Waimea/Kamuela (HI); On-site; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Flik Independent School Dining, part of Compass Group USA, seeks a Sous Chef to lead and support culinary operations in a dynamic K–12 school dining program. Reporting to the Executive Chef, you will assist with daily food production, menu development, catering execution, inventory management, and supervision of hourly kitchen associates.

The role suits a culinary professional with a passion for scratch cooking, creativity, and high standards in food quality and presentation, committed to

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of dynamic culinary or kitchen management experience in high-volume foodservice operations; K–12, institutional, or contract dining preferred.
• Strong catering experience and ability to lead special events.
• Knowledge of scratch cooking, batch production, and food cost controls.
• ServSafe Certification highly preferred.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), Outlook, and internet-based tools.
• Excellent communication and leadership skills with a strong sense of ownership and collaboration.
• Dedication to customer happiness and a passion for crafting delicious, nutritious meals for students and school communities.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in daily kitchen operations, including food preparation, production, and supervision of back-of-house staff.
• Support cost control initiatives by assisting with inventory management, ordering, and minimizing food waste.
• Help plan, develop, and implement menus that align with company culinary standards, student preferences, and nutritional guidelines.
• Lead or support the preparation and execution of catered events, ensuring high-quality food, presentation, and service.
• Implement and support new culinary programs and initiatives in collaboration with the Executive Chef and corporate culinary team.
• Ensure all food safety and sanitation guidelines are rigorously followed, including compliance with HACCP and allergy protocols.
• Maintain high standards for food quality, cleanliness, and organization in all kitchen areas.
• Participate in training and mentoring hourly culinary staff to support skill development and team culture.
• Champion a safe, inclusive, and collaborative kitchen environment that reflects the values of the school community and company.

Skills

Culinary leadership

Food cost control

Catering

Scratch cooking

Sustainability

ServSafe

MS Office

Communication

Leadership

Education

Associate degree in Culinary Arts

Job description

Flik Independent School Dining, part of Compass Group USA, seeks a Sous Chef to lead and support culinary operations in a dynamic K–12 school dining program. Reporting to the Executive Chef, you will assist with daily food production, menu development, catering execution, inventory management, and supervision of hourly kitchen associates.

The role suits a culinary professional with a passion for scratch cooking, creativity, and high standards in food quality and presentation, committed to