DISTRICT CHEF I - K12 Inspire NOLA School District - NEW ORLEANS, LA

Compass Group
life insurance, parental leave, paid time off, retirement plan
United States, Louisiana, New Orleans
Aug 11, 2025
Chartwells K12 Position Title: DISTRICT CHEF I - K12 Inspire NOLA School District - NEW ORLEANS, LA 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 Are you a passionate, hands-on culinary leader ready to make a meaningful impact in a dynamic K-12 school environment? Inspire NOLA Schools is seeking aDistrict Chefto lead culinary operations across 8 vibrant campuses, serving up to 5,800 students in the heart of New Orleans. This is aboots-on-the-ground role-you'll spend80% of your time in the field, working side-by-side with teams to elevate food quality, ensure recipe compliance, and train staff in efficient, effective culinary techniques. You'll be supported by a strong team of partners, including a Chef Supervisor, Assistant Director, and two Directors, all committed to excellence in thisunion account. This role offersfantastic work-life balance-no nights, weekends, or holidays, withdaytime hours only. You'll lead engaging culinary demos, support nutrition education, exclusive catering events, and champion exciting programs like Global Eats, Mood Boost, Discovery Kitchen, and Student Choice. With high visibility and direct impact, this is a perfect opportunity for someone who wants to be seen and grow within a supportive, forward-thinking organization. If you're ready to inspire students and bring bold flavor to every plate, we want to hear from you! Key Responsibilities: Oversee culinary operations across 8 campuses Train, mentor, and develop kitchen staff in culinary techniques, safety, and sanitation Ensure strict adherence to recipe compliance and food quality standards Conduct spot checks and mini audits to supervise food safety, storage, and production practices Support catering and special event execution across the district Collaborate with culinary and marketing teams to implement new programs Drive innovation in food quality, presentation, and student engagement Monitor and manage food and labor costs to support budget goals Influence and support kitchen teams without direct supervisory authority Preferred Qualifications: Minimum of 3 years of culinary management experience Strong background in high-volume food production Catering experience preferred Proven track record managing food and labor costs Passion for working in a school environment and making a positive impact on students 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.