Sous Chef

Sous Chef

Reports To: Executive Chef / Director of Food Services

Location:
Priory of the Immaculate Conception
at the Dominican House of Studies
Washington, DC 20017

Position Summary

The Dominican House of Studies, a Catholic seminary of the Dominican Friars, seeks a full-time salaried Sous Chef to support the daily kitchen operations in service of our residential academic and religious community. The successful 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 brothers, faculty, and guests.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in the preparation and service of daily meals for residents, faculty, and guests, supporting the rhythm of communal life
• 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 or executive chef 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 aligned with community life
• 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.