EXECUTIVE CHEF - Lawton Public Schools, Oklahoma

Compass Group•Lawton, OK

2d•$75,000 - $85,000•Onsite

About The Position

Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.Job Summary Step into something exciting—a brand-new Chartwells food service partnership with Lawton Public Schools, serving 14,000 students across 27 schools—where you’ll help build a dynamic culinary program from the ground up. As Executive Chef, you’ll play a central role in shaping menus, elevating food quality, and creating a dining experience that’s fresh, innovative, and something students look forward to every day. Best of all, you’ll enjoy a fantastic work-life balance with no nights, weekends, or holidays—so you’ll be home cooking dinner in your own kitchen most evenings (pending business needs). You’ll collaborate with a strong leadership team, including the Resident District Manager and Director of Dining Services, while leading and inspiring a frontline team of up to 110 associates. From hands-on menu development and training to driving consistency and excellence across every kitchen, you’ll bring creativity and high standards to everything you do. If you thrive in fast-paced environments, love building something special from the ground up, and are passionate about mentoring teams while maintaining a schedule that supports your lifestyle—this is your opportunity to lead, innovate, and make a lasting impact.

Requirements

5+ years of progressive culinary/kitchen management experience, with catering experience preferred.
Proven success in high-volume, complex foodservice operations, with a solid base in institutional and batch cooking.
Hands-on chef experience is critical, accompanied by extensive knowledge of food trends, emphasizing quality, production, sanitation, cost control, and presentation.
Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office suite and email systems.
Willingness to actively engage in client satisfaction programs and activities.

Nice To Haves

Associate’s degree highly desired or equivalent experience in culinary arts.
ServSafe certification is highly desirable, highlighting a commitment to food safety.

Responsibilities

Develops regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards, ensuring adherence to portioning and presentation guidelines.
Trains kitchen staff in food preparation, equipment operation, and safety protocols, promoting a culture of excellence.
Establishes and maintains thorough cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment and work areas.
Handles inventory of food and supplies, optimizing utilization while ensuring vital products are readily available.
Ensures compliance with health and sanitation regulations through meticulous adherence to department procedures and participation in audits.
Actively participates in departmental meetings, staff development initiatives, and professional programs to stay abreast of industry trends.
Performs other duties as assigned to support the efficient functioning of a dining service operation.