Sous chef
Dominican House of Studies
Washington DC, DC
Reports To:Executive Chef / Director of Food Services
Location:
at the Dominican House of Studies
The Dominican House of Studies, a Catholic seminary of the Order of Preachers (Dominican Friars), seeks a full-time salaried Sous Chef to support the daily kitchen operations in service of our residential academic and religious community. Suitable candidate must be both skilled and dependable.
The Sous Chef assists the Executive Chef in preparing nutritious, high-quality meals that support the daily physical well-being of approximately 65 resident student priests, faculty, and guests.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist in the preparation and service of daily meals for residents, faculty, and guests.
- Support menu planning with attention to nutrition, seasonality, stewardship of resources, and dietary needs
- Supervise and coordinate kitchen staff and volunteers as assigned, fostering teamwork and mutual respect
- Ensure full compliance with food safety, sanitation, and health regulations
- Maintain cleanliness, order, and professionalism in all kitchen and storage areas
- Assist with ordering, receiving, and responsible stewardship of food and supplies
- Provide operational support during liturgical seasons, feast days, academic events, and community gatherings
- Step in for the Executive Chef as needed to ensure continuity of service
Qualifications
- 3-4 years of professional kitchen experience, preferably in an institutional, educational, or communal dining setting
- Culinary training or equivalent professional experience
- Working knowledge of food safety standards and kitchen operations
- Ability to lead with humility, reliability, and attention to detail
- Strong organizational skills and a collaborative approach to work
- Flexibility to work early mornings, occasional evenings, weekends, and holy day schedules as needed
Preferred Qualities
- Kitchen manager experience
- Appreciation for or experience working within a Catholic, religious, or mission-driven environment
- Calm, respectful demeanor and commitment to service
- Desire for stability and long-term contribution to a residential community
Work Environment & Benefits
- Structured meal service schedule at fixed times
- Competitive compensation commensurate with experience
- Full-time salaried employee benefits package includes health insurance and holidays (details provided upon inquiry)
Mission Statement Alignment
Employees of the Dominican House of Studies are expected to respect and support the mission of the institution, which is dedicated to the formation of seminarians in the life of prayer, study, community, and preaching in service to the Church.