We are looking to add an experienced, motivated Traveling Chef Manager for our Lancer Hospitality team. As a traveling chef manager, you will have the opportunity to prepare innovative cuisine and manage BOH operations. This position will be a traveling chef managerfor Lancer Hospitality and Corporate Chefs units in the Twin Cities area. The Traveling Chef Manager is a dynamic, high-impact culinary leader responsible for supporting multiple accounts across Lancer Hospitality and Corporate Chefs. This role operates as a floating chef/manager, providing on-site leadership during periods of transition, peak operating times PTO, vacations, or vacancies. The Traveling Chef Manager serves as a stabilizer and performance driver, ensuring continuity in food quality, safety, team leadership, and client satisfaction. This individual partners closely with Chef Managers and operations leadership to uphold brand standards, execute culinary programs, and deliver consistent, high-quality guest experiences and will directly report to District Manager.
Operational Support & Coverage: Provide on-site culinary and managerial leadership during: Chef PTO/vacation coverage Open or transitional leadership roles High-volume or peak operating periods (POT) Assume full responsibility of kitchen operations including: Production and execution Staffing and scheduling Ordering and inventory management Food safety and sanitation compliance AR and accounting as needed – Dependent on leave status to who they are supporting
Culinary Execution & Program Support: Execute and reinforce Lancer and Corporate Chefs culinary standards, recipes, and menu programs Support rollout and consistency of: Seasonal menus Promotional programs Client-driven initiatives Partner with Chef Managers to improve: Menu execution Plate presentation Speed of service
Leadership & Team Development: Provide hands-on leadership, coaching, and mentorship to kitchen teams Support Chef Managers with: Training and onboarding Performance coaching Accountability to standards Step in as the acting Food Service Manager/Chef Manager when needed
Standards, Compliance & Financial Performance: Ensure strict adherence to: Health department regulations Company food safety and sanitation standards Allergen awareness and compliance protocols Support locations in achieving: Food cost control targets Labor efficiency goals Waste reduction initiatives Identify operational gaps and implement immediate corrective actions
Client & Business Support: Maintain a strong, professional presence with clients and stakeholders Support account teams in delivering contractual expectations and service excellence Provide feedback and reporting to leadership on: Operational challenges Team performance Opportunities for improvement
What we're looking for: Must-haves: 3+ years of progressive culinary leadership experience (Executive Chef, Chef Manager, Food Service manager or similar) Strong background in multi-unit or high-volume foodservice operations is a plus Proven ability to step into new environments quickly and drive results ServSafe Certification Willingness to travel frequently across assigned regions Nice-to-haves: Experience in contract foodservice, hospitality, corporate dining, or attractions (zoos, museums, venues) Experience with menu development and program execution Previously worked in a corporate culinary structure
Compensation Range $53,000-55,000/yr.
Our Benefits: Medical (FT Employees) Dental Vision Voluntary UNUM offering for Accident, Critical Illness and Hospital Indemnity Discount Program Commuter Benefits (Parking and Transit) EAP 401k Sick Time Holiday Pay (9 paid holidays) Tuition Reimbursement (FT Employees) Paid Time Off
About Elior North America: Elior North America is an equal opportunity employer. Qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability or protected veteran status. We are committed to diversity and encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and abilities. We take pride in supporting the development of our employees and their skills at all levels and in fostering an environment of growth.