Catering Chef

Compass Group•Richmond, VA

6d•$60,000 - $70,000

About The Position

Become part of Restaurant Associates, the industry’s leading provider of dining and event catering for some of the nation's most prestigious museums, performing arts centers and corporations! Voted Glassdoor's Employee Choice Awards- Best Places to Work, This is R/A !Job SummaryThe Catering Chef plays a key leadership role within the culinary team, supporting high‑volume catering production and daily culinary operations for the CoStar account. This position is ideal for a hands‑on, creative culinary leader who thrives in fast‑paced environments and enjoys bringing thoughtful, polished food experiences to corporate clients. You will partner closely with the Executive Chef to plan menus, oversee catering execution, guide culinary associates, and ensure that all food meets Restaurant Associates’ standards for quality, safety, and presentation. This role offers exciting opportunities to influence culinary innovation, support special events, and contribute to a collaborative kitchen culture.

Requirements

Experience with high‑volume catering, large‑scale production, or multi‑station operations
Strong culinary fundamentals and ability to execute menus with consistency
Understanding of current food and catering trends, including use of seasonal ingredients
Ability to work collaboratively and communicate effectively with diverse teams
Comfort with kitchen systems, ordering platforms, and basic Microsoft Office tools
Knowledge of food‑safety practices and HACCP principles
Culinary degree, A.S. degree, or equivalent professional experience

Nice To Haves

High‑volume or complex foodservice operations experience
Institutional or batch cooking background is helpful
ServSafe certification or Department of Health certification

Responsibilities

Lead the production and execution of high‑volume catering events, ensuring quality, timing, and presentation meet client expectations
Collaborate with the Executive Chef to plan menus and develop new catering concepts
Support culinary logistics, including event prep, batch cooking, event flow, and back‑of‑house coordination
Prepare and cook menu items for daily operations and catering needs
Maintain consistency and excellence in flavor, preparation, and presentation
Support the rollout of new culinary programs developed with company marketing and culinary teams
Assist the Executive Chef in managing food cost controls, inventory, and ordering
Follow production schedules, portion guidelines, and recipe standards
Help maintain accurate ordering, receiving, and inventory procedures
Ensure adherence to HACCP and company food‑safety standards
Maintain a clean, organized, and efficient kitchen environment
Support routine audits and compliance reviews
Provide guidance and support to hourly culinary associates
Assist with hiring, training, coaching, and development
Foster a positive, collaborative, learning‑focused kitchen culture