Executive Chef 2 - School Catering
Company : Sodexo
Location : Lansing, MI, 48933
Job Type : Full Time
Date Posted : 6 January 2026
Role Overview
SodexoMAGIC is seeking an Executive Chef of Catering to lead catering culinary operations at Lansing Public Schools. In this role, you’ll be the hands-on driving force behind exceptional catering food experiences—designing innovative menus and ensuring flawless execution for events of all sizes. From concept to plate, you’ll oversee every culinary detail, guaranteeing top-tier quality and presentation that delights guests and elevates standards.
SodexoMagic is the joint venture partnership between NBA Hall of Famer, Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Sodexo. This strategic alliance enables us to deliver creative solutions to our clients along with our local partners throughout the communities we serve. For almost 20 years, we have provided top-level food, facilities management and integrated services to corporations, healthcare facilities, K-12 schools, colleges, universities and aviation lounges.
What You'll Do
- be responsible for purchasing, menu compliance, inventory, food cost analysis and food production forecasting
- ensure Sodexo Culinary standards including recipe compliance and food quality are implemented
- have the ability and willingness to develop and motivate team members to embrace culinary innovations
- ensure food safety, sanitation and workplace safety standard compliance
- have working knowledge of automated food inventory, ordering, production and management systems
What We Offer
Compensation is fair and equitable, partially determined by a candidate's education level or years of relevant experience. Salary offers are based on a candidate's specific criteria, like experience, skills, education, and training. Sodexo offers a comprehensive benefits package that may include:
- Medical, Dental, Vision Care and Wellness Programs
- 401(k) Plan with Matching Contributions
- Paid Time Off and Company Holidays
- Career Growth Opportunities and Tuition Reimbursement
More extensive information is provided to new employees upon hire.
What You Bring
- a strong culinary background, with the demonstrated ability to stay current with new culinary trends
- catering experience, with strong attention to detail
- excellent leadership and communication skills with the ability to maintain the highest of culinary standards
- strong coaching and employee development skills
- have a passion for food and innovation
Who We Are
At Sodexo, our purpose is to create a better everyday for everyone and build a better life for all. We believe in improving the quality of life for those we serve and contributing to the economic, social, and environmental progress in the communities where we operate. Sodexo partners with clients to provide a truly memorable experience for both customers and employees alike. We do this by providing food service, catering, facilities management, and other integrated solutions worldwide.
Our company values you for you; you will be treated fairly and with respect, and you can be yourself. You will have your ideas count and your opinions heard because we can be a stronger team when you’re happy at work. This is why we embrace diversity and inclusion as core values, fostering an environment where all employees are valued and respected. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to individuals regardless of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex, gender identity, pregnancy, disability, sexual orientation, military status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law. If you need assistance with the application process, please complete this form.
Qualifications & Requirements
Minimum Education Requirement - Associate's Degree or equivalent experienceMinimum Management Experience - 2 yearsMinimum Functional Experience - 2 years work experience in food or culinary services including restaurants, fast food, vending, catering services, institutional services, mall food courts, etc.
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Frequently asked questions
An Executive Chef 2 in school catering focuses on large-scale meal planning, menu innovation, and quality control specific to educational institutions. Unlike restaurant chefs, they balance nutrition standards, food safety, and operational efficiency to meet school requirements in Lansing’s public system.
Mastering inventory forecasting, food cost analysis, and recipe compliance is key. Equally important are leadership abilities to inspire kitchen staff and staying ahead of food trends, which help Executive Chef 2s maintain high standards and innovate menus within school catering.
Daily tasks include supervising meal preparation, ensuring food safety protocols, managing purchasing and inventory, and motivating the culinary team. This role requires a hands-on approach to deliver consistent, high-quality catering experiences tailored to school events.
Sodexo fosters an inclusive culture valuing diversity and employee development. Executive Chef 2s benefit from supportive leadership, opportunities for career growth, and a mission-driven environment focused on community impact and culinary excellence.
Sodexo provides comprehensive benefits including health coverage, 401(k) matching, and tuition reimbursement. Executive Chef 2s receive ongoing training and leadership development, positioning them for advancement within the company’s broad food service network.
In Lansing, Executive Chef 2 salaries typically range from $55,000 to $75,000 annually, depending on experience and education. Salaries reflect local market demand for skilled culinary leaders in school catering, combined with Sodexo’s competitive compensation packages.
While an associate’s degree is standard, certifications like ServSafe or culinary management credentials are highly valued. These qualifications demonstrate expertise in food safety and kitchen leadership, aligning with Lansing’s regulatory standards and Sodexo’s quality expectations.
Lansing’s school catering scene is actively recruiting experienced Executive Chefs due to growing demand for nutritious, large-scale meal services. Candidates with strong leadership and cost management skills have an advantage in this competitive but opportunity-rich market.
The role balances creativity with operational discipline, encouraging menu innovation that meets nutritional standards and budget constraints. Sodexo’s partnership with local communities empowers Executive Chef 2s to craft appealing, health-conscious meals for diverse school populations.
Challenges include managing fluctuating event sizes, aligning menus with dietary regulations, and coordinating a diverse team. Successfully navigating these requires adaptability, strong communication, and a passion for elevating culinary experiences in educational settings.