Sous Chef | Shields Family Dining Hall

Sous Chef | Shields Family Dining Hall Shields Family Dining, VP-UOES-Hospitality & Dining Notre Dame, IN, United States
Full-time Sous Chef | Shields Family Dining Hall Shields Family Dining, VP-UOES-Hospitality & Dining Company Description The University of Notre Dame is more than a workplace; it is a vibrant, mission-driven community where every employee is valued and supported. Rooted in a tradition of excellence and inspired by our Catholic character, Notre Dame is committed to fostering an environment of care that nurtures the whole person—mind, body, and spirit. Here, you will find a deep sense of belonging, a culture that prioritizes well-being, and the opportunity to grow your career while being a force for good in the world. Whether contributing to world-class research, shaping the student experience, or supporting the University's mission in other ways, you will be part of a dedicated team working to make a meaningful impact on campus and beyond. At Notre Dame, your work matters, and so do you! Job Description The Sous Chef plays a critical leadership role in the opening and daily operations of the Shields Family Dining Hall, a new facility dedicated to serving student-athletes at the University of Notre Dame. This position is responsible for supporting the Executive Chef in all culinary and operational aspects of the dining hall, ensuring excellence across financial performance, human resources, food quality, safety, and guest experience. As a member of the Notre Dame Dining Leadership Team, the Sous Chef contributes to delivering a "Best in Class" dining program aligned with the mission and goals of Notre Dame Campus Dining. In the absence of the Executive Chef, the Sous Chef assumes full responsibility for kitchen operations and leadership. Key Responsibilities Culinary & Kitchen Operations Oversee daily kitchen operations, including food ordering, preparation, production, and inventory control
Ensure high standards of food quality, presentation, service, and hospitality
Maintain consistency across all culinary offerings and service periods Leadership & Staff Development Supervise, train, and mentor kitchen staff to ensure optimal performance and professional growth
Support recruitment, onboarding, and ongoing training initiatives
Foster a positive, team-oriented work environment focused on excellence Financial & Administrative Management Assist in managing food costs, labor costs, and overall budget performance
Support scheduling, purchasing, and inventory management processes ensure all operational metrics and financial targets are met Compliance & Safety Promote and enforce food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety standards
Ensure compliance with all regulatory and university policies Facilities & Equipment Oversight Assist with maintenance and proper use of kitchen equipment and physical plant
Identify and address operational or facility-related issues proactively Program Support & Collaboration Partner with Dining Hall leadership on marketing, programming, and special initiatives
Contribute to apprenticeship and staff development programs
Collaborate with cross-functional teams to enhance the overall dining experience Executive Chef Support Act as second-in-command in the kitchen, providing leadership and operational continuity
Assume full responsibility for kitchen operations in the absence of the Executive Chef
Communicate effectively with leadership regarding operations, staffing, and performance
Qualifications
Proven experience in a high-volume culinary environment, preferably in institutional or campus dining
Strong leadership and team management skills with the ability to motivate and develop staff
Solid knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and regulatory compliance
Experience with inventory control, purchasing, and cost management
Excellent organizational, communication, and problem-solving abilities
Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic environment while maintaining professionalism
Culinary degree or equivalent professional experience preferred
Flexibility to work varied schedules, including evenings, weekends, and peak service times