Prep Chef (Catering)

University of Nebraska–Lincoln; Lincoln (NE); On-site; USD 36,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Health insurance (medical/dental/vison

Retirement with match

Scholarships for employees

Professional development

Job summary

The University of Nebraska-Lincoln is seeking a highly skilled Prep Chef to support catering production. This hands-on role requires attention to detail, culinary talent, and the ability to deliver a positive guest experience in a busy dining operation.

As a full-time Prep Chef, you will assist in menu development, station setup and breakdown, food preparation, inventory, and training staff on techniques while upholding safety and quality standards in Lincoln, Nebraska.

Qualifications

• Culinary degree or certificate or substantial professional culinary experience.
• Strong focus on food quality and presentation.
• Ability to train and lead kitchen staff.

Responsibilities

• Assist in menu additions and recipe development.
• Set up and close down stations, cook, restock and prep ingredients.
• Monitor costs and waste; manage inventory and dish presentation.
• Train staff on cooking techniques and safety practices.
• Provide outstanding guest service in dining operations.

Skills

Culinary skills

Food safety

Staff training

Attention to detail

Customer service

Education

Culinary degree/certificate

Tools

CBOARD

Lean Path

Transact

Job description

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Employment Website

Please see Special Instructions for more details.

Position Information

Position Information

EEO Statement

The University of Nebraska does not discriminate based on race, color, ethnicity, national origin, sex, pregnancy, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion, disability, age, genetic information, veteran status, marital status, and/or political affiliation in its programs, activities, or employment. See Notice of Nondiscrimination

Working Title

Working Title Prep Chef (Catering)

Department

Department Housing: Catering-12429

Requisition Number

Requisition Number S_260865

Posting Open Date

Posting Open Date 10/23/2026

Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date)

Application Review Date: (To ensure consideration, please submit all application materials before review date) 11/12/2026

Posting Close Date

Open Until Filled Yes

Description of Work

The University of Nebraska is seeking a highly skilled Culinarian, to serve as a Prep Chef. This position will be hands on in the kitchen and heavily involved in the kitchen’s production. This position requires attention to detail, a passion for food, and the ability to create a positive guest experience.

Prep Chef is responsible for:

• Aiding in the creation of menu additions
• Performing tasks in multiple areas/functions, such as setting up and closing down stations, cooking, re-stocking, recipe/ingredient preparation, inventory, dish machine operation, and cleaning
• Cost and waste control
• Food presentation
• Training and providing guidance to staff on technique
• Providing outstanding customer service to the guests of dining services

About Us:

At the University of Nebraska–Lincoln, we’re proud to be consistently recognized by Forbes as a top employer and recently earned the Lincoln Family Friendly Workplace certification. We are known for our welcoming, supportive environment, commitment to professional growth, and outstanding benefits. UNL isn’t just a workplace; it’s a place to build your career and make a meaningful impact in Nebraska.

When you join our team as a full‑time, regular staff member, you’ll enjoy:

• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, parental leave, and holidays
• Comprehensive insurance options, including medical, dental, vision, and life coverage
• Employee and dependent scholarship programs to pursue higher education
• Retirement plans with university matchA workplace culture that values your time outside of work
• Culinary art degree/certificate or two (2) years of professional culinary experience such as working for a restaurant (not Quick Service), country club, catering service, or University dining preparing food from scratch for traditional banquet, buffet, or table service.
• Ability to read, write, weigh, and measure.
• Ability to communicate effectively.
• Ability to train and lead others.
• Food Handler’s permit or ability to obtain by passing the Safety and Sanitation test.

Preferred Qualifications

• Supervisory experience.
• Chef with a high attention to detail, a passion for excellent food, and ability to ensure a positive guest experience.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office CBOARD (or similar menu management programs), Lean Path, Transact software.
• Attention to detail and organizational skills with duties and personnel.

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required

Pre-Placement Driving Record Review Required No

Physical Required

Physical Required Yes

Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) required. Subject to DOT approved pre-employment & random testing for alcohol and controlled substances.

Criminal History Background Check Required

Criminal History Background Check Required Yes

Job Category (old)

Job Category (old) Office/Service

Job Type

Job Type Full-Time

Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5)

Alternate Work Schedule (if other than 8-5) Variable hours

Work Location (City, State)

Work Location (City, State) Lincoln, NE

Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding?

Position funded by grant or other form of temporary funding? No

If Temporary, indicate end date

Planned Hire Date:

Appointment End Date

Supplemental Questions

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