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University Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

AVI Foodsystems

Sous Chef, (Tiffin University)

Fremont, OH · On-site

$48K - $64K/yr

AVI Foodsystems is looking for an energetic and optimistic leader to fill the role of Sous Chef at Tiffin University in Tiffin, OH. This is a full-time night Sous Chef position with rotating ...

AVI Foodsystems

Sous Chef, (Tiffin University)

Tiffin, OH

$44K - $59K/yr

AVI Foodsystems is looking for an energetic and optimistic leader to fill the role of Sous Chef at Tiffin University in Tiffin, OH. This is a full-time night Sous Chef position with rotating ...

AVI Foodsystems

Sous Chef, (Tiffin University)

Norwalk, OH · On-site

$47K - $64K/yr

AVI Foodsystems is looking for an energetic and optimistic leader to fill the role of Sous Chef at Tiffin University in Tiffin, OH. This is a full-time night Sous Chef position with rotating ...

Syracuse University

Chef Manager

Syracuse, NY · On-site

$80K/yr

... Title Chef Manager Location Syracuse, NY Campus Syracuse, NY Commitment to On-Campus Experience ... Syracuse University values the collaboration, mentorship, and spontaneous connections that happen ...

Compass Group

SOUS CHEF - HOFSTRA UNIVERSITY

Hempstead, NY · On-site

$66K - $70K/yr

Job Summary Working as the Sous Chef at Hofstra University you will be responsible for the successful operation of the Culinary Department for Retail and Catering. You will assist in the supervision ...

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University Chef information

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$10

$24

$44

How much do university chef jobs pay per hour?

As of Jul 21, 2026, the average hourly pay for university chef in the United States is $24.63, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $16.83 and $31.01 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

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 are university chefs?

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.

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What cities are hiring for University Chef jobs? Cities with the most University Chef job openings:
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University Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Chef job openings in the United States as of July 2026, with employment types broken down into 78% Full Time, 20% Part Time, 1% Temporary, and 1% Contract. Highlights an 99% Physical, and 1% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,225 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Sous Chef - University of Alabama

Sous Chef - University of Alabama

Bon Appetit

Tuscaloosa, AL • On-site

$55K - $65K/yr

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 27 days ago

Bon Appétit Management Company rating

7.7

Company rating: 7.7 out of 10

Based on 57 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

7th of 67 rated caterers

Job description

Position Title: Sous Chef - University of Alabama 

Salary:  $55,000 - $65,000 / year

Our Passion is Food!
At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding service! At Bon Appetit you won't find our managers referring to a corporate recipe book or our chefs microwaving the lunch special. We do not have standardized recipes or central commissaries, instead, our chefs and managers are expected to stay abreast of current culinary trends and bring cutting edge food into their cafes. We are a restaurant company that operates in contract food service. That means you will have the freedom to be creative, take risks, and truly shine. We are committed to our staff growing, trying new things, and learning all that they can. Our rapid growth and breadth of accounts translates into exciting opportunities for our people!

This position is eligible for an Employee Referral Bonus! If you know someone that is qualified for this role, please use the ‘job search’ in PeopleHub to refer your referral and email them a link to apply. Your referral will be able to apply by clicking the link in the email. You can check the status through your profile, accessible via Careers in PeopleHub, by clicking on ‘referral tracking.’ For Employee Referral guidelines, FAQs and the Compass Employee Referral Policy, email MyReferral@compass-usa.com. 

Job Summary

The University of Alabama is seeking a talented and motivated Sous Chef to support the daily culinary operations of a dynamic and fast-paced campus dining program. This position plays a key role in delivering exceptional food quality, ensuring operational excellence, and creating a positive dining experience for students, faculty, staff, and guests.

Working closely with the Executive Chef, the Sous Chef will assist in overseeing kitchen operations, supervising culinary team members, supporting menu development, and ensuring food is prepared and presented to the highest standards. This is an outstanding opportunity for a culinary professional who thrives in a high-volume environment and enjoys mentoring teams while remaining actively involved in day-to-day food production.

 

Key Responsibilities:

  • Assist the Executive Chef in overseeing daily kitchen operations, food production, and culinary staff performance.
  • Supervise, train, and develop hourly culinary associates while promoting a culture of teamwork, safety, and accountability.
  • Prepare and oversee the preparation of high-quality menu items for residential dining, retail concepts, and special events.
  • Support menu planning, recipe development, and seasonal menu enhancements that align with student preferences and operational goals.
  • Execute catering and campus events, ensuring exceptional food quality, presentation, and service.
  • Monitor food quality, consistency, portion control, and presentation standards.
  • Assist with inventory management, purchasing, receiving, and product rotation to maintain efficient kitchen operations.
  • Support food cost management initiatives and help control labor and operating expenses.
  • Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, and HACCP standards.
  • Assist with the implementation of new culinary programs, concepts, and campus dining initiatives.
  • Maintain a clean, organized, and safe work environment while fostering a positive team culture.

 

Preferred Qualifications:

  • Associate degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or related field; equivalent experience will be considered.
  • Progressive culinary experience in high-volume foodservice, college and university dining, healthcare, hospitality, restaurant, or catering environments.
  • Experience supervising and developing culinary teams.
  • Strong background in batch cooking, production cooking, and large-scale food preparation.
  • Catering experience and the ability to execute multiple events simultaneously preferred.
  • Knowledge of current culinary trends, food presentation, menu development, and student dining preferences.
  • Strong understanding of food cost controls, inventory management, and labor management practices.
  • Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and other foodservice management systems.
  • Excellent communication, organization, and problem-solving skills.
  • ServSafe Certification preferred.
  • Ability to work a flexible schedule, including evenings, weekends, and special campus events as needed.

 

What You'll Bring:

The ideal candidate is a hands-on culinary leader who enjoys working in a collaborative campus environment. They are passionate about food, committed to developing team members, and capable of delivering outstanding dining experiences in a high-volume operation while maintaining the highest standards of quality, safety, and guest satisfaction.

Apply to Bon Appetit today!

Bon Appetit is a member of Compass Group USA.

Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story

Associates at Bon Appetit are offered many fantastic benefits.

  • Medical
  • Dental
  • Vision
  • Life Insurance/ AD
  • Disability Insurance
  • Retirement Plan
  • Paid Time Off
  • Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
  • Associate Shopping Program
  • Health and Wellness Programs
  • Discount Marketplace
  • Identity Theft Protection
  • Pet Insurance
  • Commuter Benefits
  • Employee Assistance Program
  • Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
  • Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis
  • Paid Parental Leave
  • Personal Leave

Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here or copy/paste the link below for paid time off benefits information.

https://www.compass-usa.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/2023_WageTransparency_BAMCO.pdf

Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer.  At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.

Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act. 

Certain positions may require Florida Level 2 background screening. Details: https://info.flclearinghouse.com/

Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.

Bon Appetit maintains a drug-free workplace.

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