The Seeing Eye, the world’s oldest organization devoted to breeding, raising, and training dogs to work as guides for people who are blind, has an opportunity available for a Chef / Kitchen Supervisor to join the staff of our Food Service & Housekeeping department.
SCOPE OF RESPONSIBILITIES
The Chef plays a key role in The Seeing Eye’s Food Service operation, ensuring the delivery of high-quality, nutritious meals that support the health, comfort, and independence of students, staff, and visitors. This position oversees day-to-day kitchen operations, supervises cooks, and supports departmental administration under the direction of the Manager of Food Service and Housekeeping. The Chef ensures that all culinary operations are safe, compliant, efficient, and reflective of The Seeing Eye’s mission and values.
In addition to daily meal service, the Chef is responsible executing food service for special events and other organizational gatherings, ensuring every event reflects The Seeing Eye’s commitment to excellence, hospitality, and mission-centered service.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS
Culinary Operations
- Plan, prepare, and supervise the production of daily meals, special dietary menus, and catering for organizational events.
- Ensure that all meals meet established quality, taste, and presentation standards while adhering to nutritional and dietary guidelines.
- Adjust and scale recipes for large-group preparation and seasonal menu planning.
- Maintain appropriate food handling, sanitation, and safety practices in compliance with ServSafe standards and local health codes.
- Conduct regular kitchen inspections to ensure cleanliness, organization, and operational readiness.
- Maintain temperature and food safety logs.
Team Leadership and Supervision
Directly supervise and schedule two cooks, ensuring proper coverage across meal periods and events.Train and mentor team members on culinary techniques, safety, sanitation, and proper use of equipment.Promote a positive, inclusive, and service-oriented team culture built on accountability and collaboration.Collaborate with the Manager of Food Service and Housekeeping on performance evaluations, training plans, and disciplinary actions when necessary.Event Support
Support the Manager of Food Service and Housekeeping with menu planning, preparation, and presentation for special events such as donor dinners, volunteer appreciation events, meetings, and receptions.Provide creative input for themed menus, plated and buffet service, and dietary accommodations.Procurement and Inventory
Oversee ordering, receiving, and storage of food and supplies using proper inventory rotation and labeling systems.Monitor stock levels and maintain accurate inventory records to minimize waste and control costs.Support vendor relationships and identify opportunities for improved quality or cost savings.Equipment and Facilities
Monitor kitchen equipment for proper functionality and coordinate maintenance or repair needs.Maintain cleaning schedules for all kitchen equipment, utensils, and appliances.Ensure compliance with health and safety inspections and reporting protocols.Administration and Collaborative Support
Support the Manager of Food Service and Housekeeping with menu development, event planning, and budgeting.Assist with documentation, reporting, and scheduling as needed.EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE
Culinary degree or formal apprenticeship preferred; equivalent experience considered.Minimum of 3–5 years of professional culinary experience , including at least 1 year in a supervisory or lead role .Strong background in large-scale food preparation, event catering, and dietary accommodations.ServSafe certification ( or ability to obtain within 90 days ).Excellent communication, organization, and time management skills.Ability to lift 40–50 pounds and work on feet for extended periods.Availability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed for event support.CANDIDATE PROFILE
Cleans, sanitizes and maintains work area, kitchen equipment, utensils and appliances.Demonstrates initiative and the desire to please, is a self-starter but willing and open to direction.Is able to work and contribute in a team-based environment.Is physically able to bend, stoop and lift 40-50 pounds.Is able to work weekends, holidays and day or evening shift.ServSafe certified or willing to become certified.Must be comfortable working around animals.For further consideration, submit your cover letter and resume.