Assistant Chef

The Ohio State University Student Life Dining Services is a renowned campus dining department dedicated to providing exceptional food service to students, staff, faculty, and guests across multiple campuses including Columbus, Mansfield, Marion, Newark, and Wooster. As a vital part of the residential experience, the Dining Services department manages a comprehensive student meal plan serving approximately 15,000 residential students. Known for its commitment to quality, innovation, and sustainability, the department fosters a welcoming environment that supports the university community's diverse culinary needs and cultural tastes. This organization values creativity, teamwork, and continuous improvement, making it a dynamic workplace for food service professionals. The Assistant Chef position is an integral role within the culinary management team, primarily responsible for the preparation of cooked foods that support the daily dining operations. Situated at the Union Market, a vibrant marketplace serving a variety of fresh and exciting menu options like paninis, wraps, burgers, quesadillas, tacos, build-your-own pasta bowls, hot bar items, sushi station, grain bowls, salad and fruit bars, and a build-your-own parfait bar, the Assistant Chef plays a critical role in delivering exceptional meal experiences. This role demands a thorough knowledge of food preparation techniques and the function of all stations involved in the operation to assure smooth service and high food quality. The Assistant Chef is expected to utilize culinary skills and presentation knowledge to maintain freshly cooked products ready for continuous service throughout the shift. Flexibility is key, as this position requires supporting any station to ensure timely food completion during peak periods and events. Additionally, the Assistant Chef performs special functions such as culinary event assistance and serves as the primary culinary manager in the absence of the Unit Chef, showcasing leadership and operational oversight. This role involves working afternoon, evening, and weekend hours as needed, aligning with the service schedules and demands of campus dining. The hired candidate will enjoy a competitive starting pay range of $18.37 to $23.99 per hour, with eligibility for premium pay for shifts including at least four consecutive hours after 3:00 pm. This position is also supported by a robust benefits package that encompasses medical, dental, and vision insurance starting on the first day of employment, paid time off, holiday pay, OPERS retirement plans, tuition assistance for employees and dependents, and public service loan forgiveness initiatives. The Ohio State University’s Office of Student Life, which encompasses Dining Services, aims to help students develop intellectually, personally, and professionally in a supportive setting that encourages a strong sense of belonging and prepares them for active participation in a global society. This Assistant Chef role thus contributes directly to this mission, enhancing the student life experience by ensuring access to quality food service in a welcoming and efficient manner. The ideal candidate will bring not only culinary expertise but also a commitment to teamwork, innovation, and student-centered service excellence.

• Bachelor's degree in culinary arts or equivalent combination of education and experience
• 2 years culinary experience
• knowledge of ServSafe or similar food safety program
• knowledge of HACCP procedures
• knowledge of all kitchen equipment
• proficiency in recipe and menu creation
• ability to train and work with students and regular employees
• ability to lift 50 lbs
• successful completion of background check