EXECUTIVE CHEF / Chef Manager - Gresham-Barlow School District, OR
About The Position
Chartwells K12 is seeking an experienced Chef Manager to lead daily culinary operations across 20 schools in the Gresham-Barlow School District in Gresham, Oregon, serving more than 10,000 students. The position reports to the Director of Dining Services and works closely with two Assistant Directors and approximately 90 Chartwells associates. The Chef Manager oversees menu implementation within established guidelines, multi-unit food production, inventory management, purchasing approval, catering events, food quality and safety, and operational excellence throughout the district. The role also supports student engagement programs such as Discovery Kitchen and Mood Boost. This is a hands-on, team-oriented leadership role focused on developing staff and delivering a positive dining experience for students and staff. The Chef Manager builds relationships, coaches and trains team members, promotes a service-focused culture, and provides operational support where needed. The role includes developing regular and specialty menus, maintaining food preparation and safety standards, managing cleaning and maintenance schedules, controlling inventory, and participating in departmental meetings and professional development.
Requirements
- At least 5 years of culinary or kitchen management experience is preferred.
- Hands-on chef experience is critical.
- Experience with high-volume foodservice operations and a solid foundation in institutional and batch cooking.
- Knowledge of food quality, production, sanitation, cost control, and presentation.
- Proficiency with computer applications, including Microsoft Office and email systems.
- Willingness to actively engage in client satisfaction programs and activities.
Nice To Haves
- Associate degree in culinary arts or equivalent experience.
- ServSafe certification.
Responsibilities
- Develop regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards and ensure portioning and presentation guidelines are followed.
- Oversee multi-unit food production and daily culinary operations across 20 schools.
- Train kitchen staff in food preparation, equipment operation, and safety protocols.
- Establish and maintain detailed cleaning and equipment maintenance schedules.
- Manage food and supply inventory to optimize utilization and ensure essential products are available.
- Approve purchasing and support inventory management.
- Ensure compliance with health and sanitation regulations by following department procedures and participating in audits.
- Oversee and maintain consistent food quality, food safety, and operational excellence throughout the district.
- Support catering events and student engagement programs, including Discovery Kitchen and Mood Boost.
- Coach, develop, and train team members and help create a positive, service-focused culture.
- Participate in departmental meetings, staff development initiatives, and professional programs to stay current with industry trends.
- Engage in client satisfaction programs and activities.
- Perform other duties as assigned to support the dining service operation.
Benefits
- Medical insurance
- Dental insurance
- Vision insurance
- Life insurance and accidental death coverage
- Disability insurance
- Retirement plan
- Paid time off
- Holiday time off, varying by site and state
- Associate Shopping Program
- Health and wellness programs
- Discount Marketplace
- Identity Theft Protection
- Pet insurance
- Commuter benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Paid parental leave
- Personal leave
- Other paid and/or unpaid time off in accordance with applicable laws
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
Education Level
No Education Listed
