Lead Sous Chef — Scratch Kitchen & School Dining

Compass Group USA; Southborough (MA); On-site; USD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

Flik Independent School Dining, part of Compass Group USA, is seeking a Sous Chef to lead 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 the supervision of hourly kitchen associates.

This role suits a culinary professional with scratch cooking expertise, strong leadership, and a passion for delivering nutritious meals that meet strict

Qualifications

• Associate degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent experience.
• 2+ years of dynamic culinary or kitchen management in high-volume operations; K–12, institutional, or contract dining preferred.
• 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.

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 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 with the Executive Chef and corporate culinary team.
• Ensure all food safety and sanitation guidelines are rigorously followed, including 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

Catering experience

Scratch cooking

Food cost control

Leadership skills

Menu development

Education

Associate degree in Culinary Arts

Equivalent experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Flik Independent School Dining, part of Compass Group USA, is seeking a Sous Chef to lead 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 the supervision of hourly kitchen associates.

This role suits a culinary professional with scratch cooking expertise, strong leadership, and a passion for delivering nutritious meals that meet strict