Japanese Specialty Cuisine Chef - Airline Catering

LSG Sky Chefs•Houston, TX

2d•Onsite

About The Position

SkyChefs is hiring a Japanese Specialty Cuisine Chef for its onsite facility in Houston, Texas, near George Bush Intercontinental Airport. The chef will prepare scratch-made, authentic Japanese meals for an airline partner, ensuring quality, safety, consistency, and presentation meet detailed airline specifications. The role includes preparing and plating flight-ready dishes, coordinating production with other kitchen stations, and supporting menu changes and recipe testing. The position requires the ability to read basic Japanese, such as menu specifications, and proficiency in authentic Japanese cooking techniques. The work schedule is five consecutive days followed by two consecutive days off, with Wednesday and Thursday off. The day shift is 4:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.; average work hours are 10–12 hours per day as business dictates. SkyChefs operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. Relocation assistance to Houston is offered for this opportunity.

Requirements

At least 5 years of professional cooking experience in a high-volume or specialty kitchen, preparing authentic specialty cuisine.
Proficiency in authentic Japanese cooking techniques and preparation of the corresponding regional cuisine.
Ability to read basic Japanese, such as menu specifications.
Ability to follow airline plating guides, recipe specifications, and food presentation standards.
Strong attention to detail and commitment to quality and timing to meet Kitchen Ready Time.
Knowledge of food safety and sanitation standards, including HACCP.
Ability to work the predetermined schedule needed to meet production timelines.
Ability to work in a hot kitchen and, when required, a refrigerated environment.
Ability to stand for extended periods.
Ability to lift and carry up to 50 pounds, including hot pans of food.

Nice To Haves

Prior airline catering experience.
Culinary degree, formal training, internship program, or on-the-job training.

Responsibilities

Prepare and cook complete authentic meals from scratch, including entrees, side dishes, sauces, and specialty items for a designated airline customer.
Follow authentic recipes consistently and efficiently, adhering to airline portioning, seasoning, and presentation standards.
Plate dishes according to menu specifications and ensure components are flight-ready, visually appealing, and securely packaged.
Follow airline, HACCP, and food safety regulations, including food handling, labeling, and temperature control.
Coordinate with other kitchen stations to ensure timely production and delivery of meal components.
Maintain clean and organized workstations, equipment, and storage areas throughout each shift.
Assist with menu presentations, chef tables, cycle changes, recipe testing, and implementation of new or seasonal airline menus.
Monitor inventory, report shortages, and support waste reduction initiatives.