Executive Sous Chef

DNATA US Inflight Catering • Everett, MA

5d • $115,000

About The Position

As Executive Sous Chef for dnata Catering, you will assist the Executive Chef in overseeing culinary operations and ensuring exceptional food experiences for airline passengers. You will lead and manage chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff in preparing, cooking, and presenting high-quality meals. You will collaborate with the culinary team to develop innovative, varied menus that address passengers’ dietary requirements and preferences.

The role supports food quality, safety, and hygiene standards; menu planning and recipe development; efficient, cost-conscious production; inventory, supplier, and budget oversight; and the creation and implementation of operating procedures. It also involves coordinating with research and development, purchasing, receiving, and operations teams; meeting production timelines and specifications; testing food products; and training and coaching staff.

The essential functions are performed indoors, in an environment where noise may range from minimal to loud. The position involves frequent multitasking, detailed and accurate work, punctual attendance, and following instructions and productivity standards. Physical duties regularly include standing, walking, reaching, and stooping, kneeling, or crouching, as well as lifting or moving up to 30 pounds.

Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States without current or future employment visa sponsorship. The position is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Requirements

• Associate degree (A.A.) or at least five years of culinary experience leading a kitchen in high-end establishments; a bachelor’s degree is preferred.
• Expert culinary skills, with experience in Michelin-starred restaurants or highly reputable institutions.
• At least five years of experience in high-volume food production and prior airline catering experience.
• Meet applicable state and local food handler certification requirements for the work location; in Texas, obtain a Food Handler Certificate within 60 days of hire.
• Knowledge of global raw materials and experience creating balanced new menus.
• Ability to create high-quality culinary presentations focused on taste, creativity, and presentation.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively with clients and internal and external contacts.
• Expertise in international cuisine.
• Experience with process improvements and lean manufacturing principles.
• Computer competency with Microsoft Office.
• Valid food handler certificate or equivalent.
• Legally authorized to work in the United States at application and throughout employment without current or future sponsorship from dnata Catering USA.
• Ability to multitask under time limits, maintain attention to detail and accuracy, follow instructions, meet productivity standards, and complete work promptly.
• Regular ability to stand, walk, reach, stoop, kneel, or crouch, and lift or move up to 30 pounds.

Nice To Haves

• Bachelor’s degree.
• Multilingual abilities.

Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef in overseeing culinary operations.
• Lead and manage chefs, cooks, and kitchen staff in preparing, cooking, and presenting meals.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, safety, and hygiene in accordance with industry regulations.
• Support menu planning, recipe development, and culinary techniques to create memorable passenger dining experiences while optimizing efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
• Oversee inventory management, supplier relationships, and budgeting to support smooth and profitable operations.
• Develop and implement Standard Operating Procedures to increase productivity and control labor costs.
• Ensure compliance with food ready times (FRT) and exact order quantities.
• Facilitate internal communication through shift meetings and group discussions.
• Research formulas and processing procedures for new food products in collaboration with the R&D Manager.
• Test food modalities and quality.
• Collaborate with the Purchasing Department to source and make available materials needed for production.
• Ensure the receiving department fulfills requisition orders consistently.
• Standardize the productive standard portfolio, including methods for preserving food hygiene.
• Work with Operations to meet project timelines and launch new concepts.
• Train, coach, and provide on-the-job training to staff.
• Perform other duties as assigned by management.

Benefits

• Full-time employees are eligible for a 401(k).
• Healthcare benefits, including medical, dental, and vision, for eligible full-time employees.
• Complimentary breakfast, lunch, and dinner during the shift.
• Mentoring, volunteer, and professional development opportunities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Associate degree