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University Chef Jobs (NOW HIRING)

Compass Group

Sous Chef University Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

Sous Chef University Portland Salary: 62,000-72,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is Food! At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding ...

Bon Appetit

Sous Chef University Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

Sous Chef University Portland Salary: 62,000-72,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is Food! At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef University Portland

Portland, OR · On-site

$53K - $71K/yr

Sous Chef University Portland Salary: 62,000-72,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is Food! At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding ...

Compass Group

Sous Chef University Portland

Portland, OR

$53K - $71K/yr

Sous Chef University Portland Salary: 62,000-72,000 Other Forms of Compensation: Our Passion is Food! At Bon Appetit Management Company we are committed to two things, great food and outstanding ...

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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 Jun 27, 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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University Chef jobs near you
Infographic showing various University Chef job openings in the United States as of June 2026, with employment types broken down into 76% Full Time, 19% Part Time, and 5% Temporary. Highlights an 97% Physical, 1% Hybrid, and 2% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $51,225 per year, or $24.6 per hour.
Pastry Chef, (Bryant University)

Pastry Chef, (Bryant University)

AVI Foodsystems

Smithfield, RI • On-site

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Life, Retirement, PTO

Posted 22 days ago

AVI Foodsystems rating

6.2

Company rating: 6.2 out of 10

Based on 165 frontline employees who took The Breakroom Quiz

33rd of 66 rated caterers

Job description

AVI Foodsystems is looking for an energetic and optimistic team member to fill the role of Pastry Chef at Bryant University in Smithfield, RI. This is a Full-time position.

Founded in 1960, AVI Foodsystems has evolved into one of the most respected and trusted food service companies in the nation. Providing comprehensive food services with a focus on the highest quality and freshest ingredients, impeccable service and total value is the reputation we have earned and live up to everyday.

Duties & Responsibilities:

  • Produce a variety of sweet and savory breads, pastries and desserts by reviewing menus and specifications
  • Consult with Executive Chef to determine the amount and type of breads, pastries, and desserts to be served
  • Confirm special themes and/or décors to be followed
  • Provide the best customer service in a courteous, fast and efficient manner
  • Accommodate all requests and special needs for guests and clients
  • Maintain a safe, secure, and healthy food preparation environment by following and enforcing preparation standards and procedures
  • Comply with sanitation and legal regulations
  • Improve pastry quality results by analyzing production methods, standardizing recipes, re-designing processes, and implementing changes as necessary
  • Develop and test recipes and new techniques; write and create pastry menus
  • Purchase ingredients, evaluate the quality of food product deliveries, and establish inventory levels

Requirements:

  • Two or more years of baking experience
  • Culinary degree preferred
  • Precise eye for detail
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Ability to lift up to 50 pounds
  • Flexible schedule

Benefits:

AVI is proud of its team members and appreciates the hard work, loyalty and committed service they provide every day, which is why we offer the following:

  • A family culture and atmosphere
  • Competitive compensation
  • Health, dental, vision, and life insurance for full-time team members
  • 401(k) with generous company match
  • Paid vacations and holidays
  • Immense training and growth opportunities

We conduct pre-employment drug testing. EOE

What AVI Foodsystems employees say

Pay

Benefits

Hours and flexibility

Workplace

Get the full story on Breakroom

AVI Foodsystems logo

About AVI Foodsystems

Sourced by ZipRecruiter

Founded in 1960, AVI Foodsystems has evolved into one of the most respected and trusted food service companies in the nation. Providing comprehensive food services with a focus on the highest quality and freshest ingredients, impeccable service and total value is the reputation we have earned and live up to everyday.

Industry

Food services and drinking places

Company size

5,001 - 10,000 Employees

Headquarters location

Warren, OH, US

Year founded

1960

Social media

Twitter

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