Culinary Chef - Community

Job Description: SR1's Culinary Chef

Salary Range: $25,000 - $70,000

*The culinary position is situated in Ridgeland, MS and offers both full-time and part-time options. We are open to considering relevant experience in lieu of formal culinary training or qualifications.

Position Overview:

SR1is thrilled to offer an exceptional opportunity for a dedicated SR1 Culinary Chef lead an extraordinary culinary journey at Mississippi's First STEM-focused Public Charter School, SR1 College Preparatory and STEM Academy (SR1CPSA.org), as well as during SR1's non-school hours activities (SR1Tech.org) in Central Mississippi. This role goes beyond traditional school hours and encompasses opportunities for event catering, summer camps, Food Hubs, and more, all while collaborating closely with the SR1 Agriculture and Food Science Department (SR1Ag.org).

As the Culinary Chef , you will play a pivotal role in curating enriching and delightful dining experiences that seamlessly align with our commitment to educational excellence. From crafting a distinctive "Farm-to-Table" meal plan to introducing a diverse array of international cuisines, the SR1 Culinary and Food Services Specialist is at the heart of creating lasting memories that extend beyond conventional education.

This full-time or part-time position holds immense significance in providing nourishing, top-tier meals to our students, staff, and families, all while fostering an uplifting dining ambiance.

Collaborating harmoniously with nutritionists, kitchen personnel, the agriculture team, and school administration, the Culinary Chef will actively contribute to designing captivating menus that adhere to dietary regulations and cater to a spectrum of preferences. In doing so, you will champion the holistic health and well-being of our student body.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Menu Innovation and Development:

- Create well-balanced, nutritious menus that align with local, state, and federal nutritional guidelines.

- Consider dietary restrictions, allergies, and cultural preferences to formulate menu options.

- Integrate locally sourced and seasonal ingredients to elevate the quality of meals.

2. Culinary Excellence and Meal Preparation:

- Expertly prepare meals from scratch, emphasizing the use of fresh ingredients and safe culinary techniques.

- Share culinary expertise and provide training to kitchen staff on proper cooking methods and food presentation.

- Ensure meals are visually appealing, appropriately portioned, and enticing to encourage student participation.

3. Nutritional Compliance and Student Well-being:

- Collaborate closely with registered dietitians and nutritionists to ensure menu items align with established nutritional standards.

- Monitor and manage portion sizes, sodium levels, and other nutritional factors to enhance student health.

4. Food Safety and Sanitation Leadership:

- Uphold rigorous food safety and hygiene practices in accordance with local health regulations.

- Educate kitchen staff on proper food handling, storage protocols, and cleanliness to mitigate foodborne risks.

5. Menu Refinement and Assessment:

- Conduct taste tests and gather feedback from students and staff to gauge menu item popularity, making necessary improvements.

- Continuously enhance recipes and menus based on feedback and nutritional requirements.

6. Engaging the Community:

- Foster open communication with parents, educators, and students to gather insights and address inquiries related to the school food program.

- Organize events and workshops to promote nutritional education and cultivate healthy eating habits.

-Assist SR1 in assisting in Farm to Table food concept.

7. Administrative Excellence:

- Maintain meticulous records of menu planning, inventory, and meal production reports.

- Contribute to budgeting and cost control initiatives, ensuring efficient resource utilization.

- Marketing collaboration with the marketing team to promote culinary offerings and experiences effectively. Provide input on food-related marketing campaigns and promotions.

Qualifications and Requirements:

- Preferred culinary degree or in progress of equivalent culinary certification.

- Demonstrated expertise in culinary arts, menu planning, and meal preparation.

- Knowledge of nutrition guidelines, dietary restrictions, and food allergies.

- Strong grasp of food safety practices and sanitation standards.

- Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills for effective collaboration with kitchen staff, school personnel, and students.

- Adaptability to evolving menu planning and dietary guidelines.

- Innovative mindset for crafting visually appealing and flavorful meals that resonate with students.

- Flexibility to excel within a dynamic environment and manage multiple responsibilities concurrently.

- Proficiency in utilizing kitchen equipment and culinary tools.

- Genuine passion for instilling healthy eating habits among students.

Compensation:

At SR1, we believe in rewarding creativity and strategic thinking. Your compensation will be structured to reflect your culinary achievements as well as the successful implementation of income-generating strategies. In addition to a competitive base salary, you will have the opportunity to earn bonuses and incentives based on revenue growth and cost-saving initiatives.

If you are ready to embark on a culinary journey that combines your love for food with your strategic prowess, we invite you to join our team as a Culinary Strategist. Together, we will shape the future of our culinary offerings, food equity, and create new avenues for income growth.

SR1 is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Application Process:

To apply for the Culinary Chef position, please submit your updated resume along with a comprehensive cover letter detailing your relevant experience to info@sr1tech.org. If available, you may also include samples of menus you have previously designed as part of your culinary portfolio. Application Due Date: September 15, 2024.