Job Description

Sodexo is seeking a Chef Manager to lead culinary operations for the Long Branch School District in Long Branch, NJ. We’re looking for a hands‑on culinary leader with strong kitchen management experience, excellent communication skills, and the ability to inspire and develop teams across multiple school sites.

In this role, you’ll oversee daily food production for 10 schools, maintain high standards for quality and safety, and support a welcoming, student‑focused dining experience. The ideal candidate is highly organized, detail‑oriented, and thrives in a fast‑paced K‑12 environment with strong community engagement.

At Sodexo, we deliver food, nutrition, environmental, and facilities management solutions to partnered K‑12 schools. Joining us at one of our district sites means fostering healthy learning environments and positively influencing student well‑being and performance.

What You'll Do

• Lead culinary operations across 10 school sites, ensuring consistent, high‑quality food production• Manage daily kitchen activities including production planning, controls, and recipe compliance• Develop and implement new food programs and oversee menu management and inventory• Partner with the General Manager to run the district’s Future Chef program and support program promotions• Oversee catering operations, including high‑visibility and VIP events• Train, mentor, and develop culinary staff to maintain strong safety, quality, and service standards

What We Offer

Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:

• Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
• 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
• Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
• Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement

More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.

What You Bring

• Prior culinary management experience in a high‑volume environment• Experience in K12 schools preferred• Strong skills in food production planning, cost control, and inventory management• High‑end and/or VIP catering experience• Ability to train, coach, and lead culinary teams effectively• Full HACCP knowledge and ServSafe certification• Computer literacy (menu systems, ordering, and production tools)• Spanish language skills helpful but not required

Who We Are

At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.

Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form.

Qualifications & Requirements

Minimum Education Requirement - High School Diploma or GED or EquivalentMinimum Management Experience - 1 year