Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center

Compass Group•Chicago, IL

11d•$75,000 - $80,000•Onsite

About The Position

The Sous Chef will play a key leadership role in the day-to-day culinary operations at the Obama Presidential Center. This position is ideal for a culinary professional with experience in high-volume restaurants, hotels, catering, or hospitality environments who thrives in a fast-paced, guest-focused setting. The Sous Chef will support culinary execution across multiple service styles, including retail dining, special events, and catering functions, while maintaining the highest standards of food quality, presentation, and operational excellence. This role partners closely with the Executive Chef to oversee kitchen operations, support team development, execute exceptional guest experiences, and ensure consistency across all culinary offerings. The ideal candidate is hands-on, organized, creative, and passionate about hospitality and service.

Requirements

Progressive culinary leadership experience in catering, hotels, restaurants, hospitality venues, or high-volume foodservice environments
Strong catering and banquet execution experience highly preferred
Experience supporting complex culinary operations with multiple service styles and large guest counts
Knowledge of current culinary and hospitality trends with a commitment to quality, presentation, and guest experience
Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation, production, and cost management practices
Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-expectation environment while remaining organized and detail-oriented
Strong communication, leadership, and team development skills
Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Outlook, and basic computer systems

Nice To Haves

Associate degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent combination of education and culinary experience
ServSafe Certification preferred

Responsibilities

Support the Executive Chef in overseeing daily kitchen operations, including food production, preparation, execution, and presentation
Lead and execute catering events, receptions, and high-profile functions with a strong focus on quality and hospitality
Assist with menu planning, recipe development, seasonal offerings, and culinary innovation
Supervise and support hourly culinary associates, ensuring efficient operations and adherence to culinary standards
Maintain strong food safety, sanitation, and workplace safety practices at all times
Assist with ordering, inventory management, waste reduction, and food cost controls
Help implement new culinary programs, concepts, and initiatives in partnership with culinary and operational leadership
Ensure consistency and excellence across high-volume meal periods and special events
Foster a positive, team-oriented kitchen culture focused on professionalism, accountability, and guest satisfaction