ZipRecruiter

Log In

1

University Chef Jobs in Florida (NOW HIRING)

next page

Showing results 1-20

All JobsUniversity Chef JobsUniversity Chef Jobs in Florida

University Chef information

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a university chef, and why are they important?

To thrive as a University Chef, you need strong culinary skills, menu planning expertise, and often a formal culinary degree or certification. Familiarity with commercial kitchen equipment, food safety standards (such as ServSafe certification), and inventory management systems is typically required. Leadership, time management, and the ability to communicate effectively with a diverse team are crucial soft skills in this role. These competencies ensure the delivery of high-quality, nutritious meals to a large campus community while maintaining efficiency, safety, and team morale.

What are some common challenges faced by a university chef, and how can they be addressed?

University Chefs often face the challenge of catering to a diverse student population with varying dietary needs, including allergies, religious restrictions, and lifestyle choices. Balancing quality, cost, and nutrition while preparing meals in large quantities can be demanding. Staying organized, maintaining open communication with dining staff, and collaborating with nutritionists and campus administrators can help address these challenges. Additionally, keeping up with food trends and student feedback ensures meal offerings remain appealing and inclusive.

What is a university chef?

University chefs are culinary professionals responsible for planning, preparing, and overseeing the food served in a university’s dining facilities. They design menus that accommodate a wide range of dietary preferences and nutritional needs for students, faculty, and staff. Their role often includes managing kitchen staff, ensuring food safety standards, and sourcing quality ingredients. University chefs play a key part in creating a positive dining experience on campus and may also participate in special campus events.

What is the difference between University Chef vs Culinary Instructor?

AspectUniversity ChefCulinary Instructor
Required CredentialsCooking experience, culinary certificationsCooking experience, culinary certifications, teaching credentials
Work EnvironmentUniversity kitchens, food service areasClassrooms, culinary labs, kitchens
Employer & Industry UsageUniversities, colleges, food service providersEducational institutions, culinary schools
Common Search & ComparisonYesYes

The University Chef primarily focuses on preparing food and managing kitchen operations within a university setting, emphasizing culinary skills. In contrast, a Culinary Instructor teaches cooking techniques and culinary theory to students. While both roles require culinary certifications and experience, the University Chef is more hands-on in food preparation, whereas the Culinary Instructor combines culinary expertise with teaching responsibilities.

What are popular job titles related to University Chef jobs in Florida? For University Chef jobs in Florida, the most frequently searched job titles are:
What job categories do people searching University Chef jobs in Florida look for? The top searched job categories for University Chef jobs in Florida are:
University Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Chef job openings in Florida as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, and 24% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution.

Sous Chef

Oak Hammock at the University of Florida

Gainesville, FL

$43K - $58K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Posted 12 days ago

Job description

Position Title: Sous Chef
Position Type: Full Time
What We Do
Oak Hammock at the University of Florida is an active, yet relaxed, Life Plan Community in Gainesville, Florida. We offer a full continuum of health care, including independent living, assisted living, specialized memory support, skilled nursing, and home care. Our community offers an unprecedented lifestyle of comfort and convenience with a rich array of services and amenities that focus on optimal wellbeing.
Imagine a rewarding career helping others. Working at Oak Hammock at the University of Florida is rewarding and fun. No matter your title, your days are spent among a community of residents enjoying retirement to the fullest. When you leave after your workday, you will feel a sense of accomplishment and joy since you are part of the community and residents’ lives.
What You Can Expect from Us
Full Time Employee Benefits include:
University of Florida partnership with community discounts and access to opportunities through the Gator One UF ID Card
OH, I CAN! Scholarship and Tuition Reimbursement Programs
Pay Every Other Week
Health, Dental, and Vision Insurance
Company Paid Short Term Disability
Long Term Disability
401K Retirement and Investing Plan with Company Match
Paid Time Off Accrual
6 Paid Holidays and 1 Additional Floating Holiday
TicketsatWork Benefit Program
Join a workplace where your work truly matters. At Oak Hammock, you’ll be part of a vibrant, welcoming community of residents who appreciate your support and kindness. Whether you’re new to the field or experienced, you’ll end each day with a sense of purpose and accomplishment. We are committed to an inclusive workplace and proudly uphold all EEOC and ADA standards.
Oak Hammock values every team member and invests in your success as well as your well-being. We provide a full range of benefits designed to support you and your family, from healthcare coverage to meaningful workplace resources.
Join Our Culinary Team
Are you a passionate culinary professional who thrives in a collaborative, fast-paced environment? We're looking for an experienced Sous Chef to partner with our culinary team in delivering exceptional dining experiences for our residents. This leadership role offers the opportunity to mentor a talented team and make a meaningful impact every day.
Sous Chef Position Summary
As Sous Chef, you'll play a key role in the daily success of our culinary operations by:
  • Partnering with the Dining Director to oversee daily kitchen operations and ensure exceptional food quality, consistency, and presentation.
  • Supervising food production, coordinating daily specials, and providing hands-on support during peak service periods.
  • Leading, coaching, training, and motivating back-of-house team members to maintain high standards of performance and teamwork.
  • Assisting with menu planning and development, including seasonal offerings, daily and weekly specials, catered events, holiday celebrations, and resident dining experiences.
  • Maintaining the highest standards of food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance.
  • Monitoring food quality, portion control, inventory, and food costs to support efficient and cost-effective operations.
  • Assisting with purchasing, ordering, inventory management, and food preparation.
  • Conducting pre- and post-shift kitchen walkthroughs to ensure cleanliness, organization, proper station setup, and inventory readiness.
  • Assuming leadership of all culinary operations in the Executive Chef's absence.
Sous Chef Job Qualifications and Requirements
  • High school diploma or GED required.
  • Formal culinary education from an accredited culinary school and/or American Culinary Federation (ACF) certification preferred.
  • Three to four years of leadership experience as a Sous Chef or Executive Chef preferred; senior living, healthcare, hospitality, or upscale dining experience is highly valued.
  • Strong culinary skills with a passion for creating high-quality, flavorful, and visually appealing dishes.
  • Proven ability to lead, coach, and develop a high-performing kitchen team.
  • Excellent organizational, communication, and time management skills.
  • Positive attitude, professionalism, and a commitment to exceptional customer service.
  • Genuine compassion and enjoyment in serving and interacting with older adults from diverse backgrounds.
  • Ability to successfully complete a Level II Background Check and pre-employment drug screening.

Apply