Sous Chef - Obama Presidential Center

Job Summary

Join the opening team at the Obama Presidential Center and help bring a world-class culinary and hospitality program to one of Chicago's most anticipated cultural destinations. As Sous Chef, you will play a key leadership role in executing exceptional dining experiences across cafés, retail dining, and special events while supporting a mission-driven environment centered on community, culture, and hospitality.

Working alongside the Executive Chef, you will lead daily kitchen operations, coach and develop culinary associates, and ensure consistent execution of innovative, high-quality menus. This role is ideal for a hands-on culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment, enjoys mentoring teams, and is passionate about delivering memorable guest experiences.

Key Responsibilities:

• Support the Executive Chef in overseeing all day-to-day culinary operations across assigned dining venues and event spaces.
• Lead and develop hourly culinary associates by providing coaching, training, and performance feedback.
• Prepare, cook, and present high-quality food while maintaining consistency in flavor, presentation, and execution.
• Assist with menu planning, recipe development, seasonal offerings, and daily specials.
• Execute catering and special events ranging from intimate receptions to large-scale functions with precision and professionalism.
• Monitor food quality, portioning, inventory, and production schedules to maximize efficiency and minimize waste.
• Assist with purchasing, receiving, inventory management, and food cost control.
• Ensure compliance with all food safety, sanitation, HACCP, and workplace safety standards.
• Support the rollout of new culinary concepts, menus, and operational initiatives in partnership with culinary leadership.
• Foster a culture of teamwork, accountability, and hospitality that reflects the mission and values of the Obama Presidential Center.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Associate degree in Culinary Arts or equivalent combination of education and professional culinary experience.
• 3+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience in high-volume restaurants, hotels, cultural institutions, or corporate dining environments.
• Experience leading teams in complex foodservice operations with multiple service styles.
• Strong catering and banquet production experience preferred.
• Experience with large-scale production, batch cooking, and scratch cooking techniques.
• Knowledge of current culinary trends with a passion for seasonal ingredients, quality, and presentation.
• Proven understanding of food cost management, inventory control, purchasing, and labor efficiency.
• Strong knowledge of HACCP, food safety, and sanitation practices.
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office, Outlook, and other foodservice technology platforms.
• ServSafe Certification preferred (or ability to obtain upon hire).
• Strong organizational, communication, and leadership skills with a collaborative, guest-focused approach.

At the Obama Presidential Center, you'll have the opportunity to help shape a culinary program that celebrates community, culture, and excellence while creating memorable experiences for every guest who walks through our doors.