Executive Sous Chef | Full-Time | Colorado State University (Performance Dining)

Colorado State University (Performance Dining) is seeking an experienced and performance-minded Executive Sous Chef to lead daily culinary operations for Training Table, serving 150+ CSU student-athletes. Reporting directly to the Executive Chef, this position carries significant autonomy over training table operations and serves as the primary culinary lead for performance nutrition execution, working closely with CSU Sports Dietitians.

This role pays an annual salary of $60,000-$65,000

Benefits for Full-Time roles: Health, Dental and Vision Insurance, 401(k) Savings Plan, 401(k) matching, and Paid Time Off (vacation days, sick days, and 11 holidays)

This position will remain open until October 30, 2026.

Training Table Operations

• Lead all daily culinary production for Training Table — breakfast, lunch, and dinner service for 150+ student-athletes across all varsity programs.
• This role operates based on the athletics program: shifts begin between 3:00am and 4:00am during the academic year—early starts are the norm, not the exception. 
• Schedule intensity increases during football season, postseason competition, and high-volume recruiting periods — flexibility is essential. 
• Weekend availability required during active seasons.
• Oversee kitchen workflow, prep scheduling, and service execution in alignment with practice and team calendars.
• Maintain high standards for food quality, portion consistency, allergen management, and presentation across every service period.
• Support catered pregame meals, road trip departure meals, and special athletic events as needed.

Performance Nutrition Alignment

• Partner with CSU Sports Dietitians to develop and execute menus that support performance, recovery, and body composition goals.
• Adjust macronutrients based on practice intensity, game day timing, and individual athlete needs.

Kitchen Leadership & Management

• Supervise, train, and mentor line cooks and prep staff within the training table kitchen.
• Maintain kitchen organization, cleanliness, and food safety compliance in accordance with ServSafe, HACCP, and CSU standards.
• Assist with inventory management, ordering, and receiving—maintaining food cost targets within established parameters.

Athlete Experience

• Build genuine relationships with student-athletes — understand their preferences, dietary needs, and cultural backgrounds.
• Support recruiting visits and VIP events with premium dining experiences that represent CSU Athletics at the highest level.

Required

• 3-5 years of culinary experience in a high-volume food service environment, with at least 1-2 years in a supervisory role.
• ServSafe Food Protection Manager Certification.
• Demonstrated knowledge of nutrition-focused cooking, macronutrient balance, and allergen management.
• Proven ability to manage production priorities and lead kitchen staff in a fast-paced, schedule-driven environment. 
• Must be able to stand for extended periods and lift heavy objects as needed.
• Strong communication skills.

Preferred

• Experience in collegiate athletics, sports performance dining, or professional sports team food service.
• Culinary degree or certification from an accredited culinary arts institution. 
• Experience working alongside registered dietitians or sports nutrition professionals.