Senior Sous Chef

Compass Group • DC

70d • $78,000 - $80,000

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! The Senior Sous Chef plays a key leadership role within the Catering Department, supporting the Executive Chef in all aspects of culinary operations. This position oversees day-to-day production, ensuring the highest standards of quality, presentation, and consistency for all catered events, from executive meetings to large-scale galas. The ideal candidate thrives in a fast-paced, creative environment and takes pride in delivering exceptional guest experiences through thoughtful, beautifully executed cuisine.

Requirements

• A.O.S. Degree in Culinary Arts or culinary certificate; equivalent experience considered.
• Minimum 3–5 years of culinary management experience in high-volume catering, banquets, or large-scale event environments.
• Proven experience managing production for high-end catering programs.
• Strong knowledge of current food and catering trends, with an eye for creativity and detail.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• ServSafe Certified or equivalent food safety certification.

Responsibilities

• Lead and oversee daily culinary operations under the direction of the Executive Chef.
• Serve as acting department head in the Executive Chef’s absence, managing production, staff, and event execution.
• Ensure compliance with HACCP and all sanitation, safety, and quality control standards.
• Assist with menu development, recipe costing, and seasonal updates aligned with client needs and brand standards.
• Manage purchasing, inventory, and food cost control processes to meet financial goals.
• Recruit, train, and mentor culinary staff—fostering a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
• Coordinate with catering and operations teams to deliver flawless execution for all events, from prep to plate.
• Maintain a strong presence in the kitchen during service and events, ensuring consistency and excellence in every dish.

Benefits

• Medical
• Dental
• Vision
• Life Insurance/ AD
• Disability Insurance
• Retirement Plan
• Paid Time Off
• Holiday Time Off (varies by site/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

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: Associate degree
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees