EXECUTIVE CHEF - K12 Comstock Public and Parchment School Districts, MI
Chartwells K12's goal is to make sure students leave the cafeteria happier and healthier than they came in, by serving food kids love to eat and creating custom dining programs. With more than 16,000 associates in 4,500 schools, ranging from large public institutions to small charter and private schools, Chartwells K12 is built on decades of food, education and operational experience driven by top culinary, nutrition, wellness, and sustainability talent. For more information, visit www.ChartwellsK12.com.
Job Summary
Step into a dynamic leadership role as the Executive Chef for our vibrant K–12 dining program serving Comstock Public Schools and Parchment Schools in Kalamazoo, MI. Overseeing kitchen operations across 11 schools and feeding 3,300 students daily, you’ll be a key player on a mission-driven team passionate about nourishing young minds. Reporting to the Director of Dining Services and working closely with our Assistant Director, you’ll bring creativity, precision, and leadership to every plate—ensuring a safe, sanitary, and inspiring culinary environment.
This is a boots-on-the-ground position, where your presence in the schools will make a meaningful impact. You’ll design engaging menus, uphold high standards for food quality and safety, and foster a positive, team-oriented kitchen culture. We’re looking for someone with strong managerial skills, deep culinary knowledge, and a genuine passion for working with students. If you thrive on innovation, enjoy bringing fresh ideas to life, and are excited to promote and grow our catering program, we’d love to have you on our team!
Key Responsibilities:
- Develops regular and specialty menus in line with K12 standards, ensuring adherence to portioning and presentation guidelines.
- Trains kitchen staff in food preparation, equipment operation, and safety protocols, promoting a culture of excellence.
- Establishes and maintains detailed cleaning and maintenance schedules for equipment and work areas.
- Handles inventory of food and supplies, optimizing utilization while ensuring vital products are readily available.
- Ensures compliance with health and sanitation regulations through meticulous adherence to department procedures and participation in audits.
- Actively participates in departmental meetings, staff development initiatives, and professional programs to stay abreast of industry trends.
Preferred Qualifications:
- Associate’s degree desired or equivalent experience in culinary arts.
- Two plus years of culinary/kitchen management experience, with solid catering experience.
- Shown success in high volume foodservice operations, with a great foundation in institutional and batch cooking.
- Hands-on chef experience is critical, accompanied by confirmed knowledge of food trends, emphasizing quality, production, sanitation, cost control, and presentation.
- Proficiency in computer applications, including Microsoft Office suite and email systems.
- Willingness to actively engage in client satisfaction programs and activities.
- ServSafe certification is highly desirable, highlighting a dedication to food safety
Apply to Chartwells Schools today!
Chartwells Schools is a member of Compass Group USA
Click here to Learn More about the Compass Story
Compass Group is an equal opportunity employer. At Compass, we are committed to treating all Applicants and Associates fairly based on their abilities, achievements, and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity, or any other classification protected by law.
Qualified candidates must be able to perform the essential functions of this position satisfactorily with or without a reasonable accommodation. Disclaimer: this job post is not necessarily an exhaustive list of all essential responsibilities, skills, tasks, or requirements associated with this position. While this is intended to be an accurate reflection of the position posted, the Company reserves the right to modify or change the essential functions of the job based on business necessity. We will consider for employment all qualified applicants, including those with a criminal history (including relevant driving history), in a manner consistent with all applicable federal, state, and local laws, including the City of Los Angeles’ Fair Chance Initiative for Hiring Ordinance, the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance, and the New York Fair Chance Act.
Chartwells K-12 maintains a drug-free workplace.
Applications are accepted on an ongoing basis.
Associates at Chartwells K-12 are offered many fantastic benefits.
- Medical
- Dental
- Vision
- Life Insurance/ AD
- Disability Insurance
- Retirement Plan
- Paid Time Off
- Holiday Time Off (varies by site/state)
- Associate Shopping Program
- Health and Wellness Programs
- Discount Marketplace
- Identity Theft Protection
- Pet Insurance
- Commuter Benefits
- Employee Assistance Program
- Flexible Spending Accounts (FSAs)
- Paid Parental Leave
- Personal Leave
Associates may also be eligible for paid and/or unpaid time off benefits in accordance with applicable federal, state, and local laws. For positions in Washington State, Maryland, or to be performed Remotely, click here for paid time off benefits information.
Req ID: 1439904
Chartwells K12
KRISTEN STROHMYER
[[req_classification]]
Job Segment:
Food Service, Executive Chef, Kitchen, Chef, Culinary, Hospitality
