What are the responsibilities and job description for the Chef In-Residence position at SoLa Impact?
JOB SUMMARY
The SoLa Foundation is on a mission to train and inspire the next generation of culinary professionals and entrepreneurs from under-resourced communities. We are looking for a Chef in Residence who is deeply passionate about working with youth and young adults to inspire their greatest potential in culinary arts and leadership. In this exciting role, you will blend culinary expertise with mentorship, making a lasting positive impact on young professionals' lives, while getting to launch the opening of 60th Street Cafe alongside The SoLa Foundation. You will run the Cafe and build a team to provide fresh and healthy
meals for the South LA community. As a Catering Chef, you will lead a variety of dining experiences for the Beehive's private events. This is an exciting opportunity to showcase your creativity in designing memorable dining experiences and display your leadership skills as you manage a team of kitchen staff and students to produce exquisite results. If you have a strong background in teaching culinary arts, creating exceptional dining experiences, and are truly passionate about uplifting young professionals, we would love to hear from you.
ABOUT THE SOLA FOUNDATION
The SoLa Foundation, the nonprofit affiliate of SoLa Impact, works to end intergenerational poverty in South Los Angeles through community development and creating new access to economic and educational opportunities for youth and adults. Focusing on underinvested communities, SoLa increases access to jobs, mentorship, scholarships, skills-based technology programs and placement in the most competitive fields of tech, entertainment, and business. The Center will work to train and inspire a new generation of professionals, leaders and entrepreneurs at the intersection of technology, the arts and live entertainment.
***PAY RATE: $35-$45 PER HOUR***
Key ResponsibilitiesVocational Training
● Instruct Culinary Basics: Lead hands-on classes covering cooking techniques, meal preparation, kitchen safety, and sanitation.
● Teach Food Safety: Train students in proper food handling, storage, and preparation techniques to ensure safety and hygiene.
● Reinforce Sanitation Practices: Promote cleanliness and hygiene best practices, ensuring compliance with health regulations.
● Meal Planning and Execution: Guide students in planning, preparing, and presenting meals for retail sale. Support the 60th Street Cafe.
● Develop Curriculum: Create engaging lesson plans and materials tailored to young adults with varying skill levels.
● Monitor Student Progress: Evaluate performance and provide constructive feedback, fostering growth and confidence.
● Foster a Positive Learning Environment: Encourage teamwork, creativity, and problem-solving in an inclusive, supportive setting.
Catering
● Plan and prepare customized menus for diverse events.
● Collaborate with clients to tailor menus to preferences and dietary needs.
● Manage kitchen staff, delegate tasks effectively, and ensure quality standards.
● Maintain food safety and hygiene protocols.
● Oversee inventory, supply orders, and budget management.
● Present food creatively, ensuring client satisfaction.
● Train and mentor junior staff, promoting professional development.
● Adapt to last-minute changes and client requests with professionalism.
Education & Experience:
- 2–3 years as a Culinary Instructor or Trainer.
- 2–3 years as a Catering Chef or similar role.
- Culinary degree or equivalent certification or experience.
Skills & Knowledge:
- Proficient in menu planning, nutrition, recipe development, and cost control.
- Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and sustainable practices.
- Proven leadership and team management abilities.
- Creativity and adaptability in recipes and techniques.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
- Budget management expertise.
Other Requirements:
- Flexibility to work evenings and weekends.
- Physical stamina to stand for extended periods and lift heavy items.
- Valid food handler’s certification.
- Commitment to excellence and delivering exceptional service.
SoLa Impact offers a comprehensive benefits package that includes paid vacation, medical, dental, vision, and life insurance, as well as pet insurance, sick leave, 10 paid holidays, and bereavement days. This package is designed to provide employees with a range of important benefits that help to support their physical and emotional well-being, while also providing financial protection and peace of mind.
At SoLa Impact, we believe work environment, culture, and the opportunity to learn and grow are key elements when considering a new job. We are just the right size to provide the resources and support you need without the bureaucracy of a large corporate environment. We foster a family-friendly and supportive workplace, collaborative and employee-focused with an emphasis on quality, integrity, trust, and accountability. We are looking to bring someone on board as soon as possible. We provide a rewarding and challenging environment. We expect a lot, but give a lot in return. Strongly prefer candidates local to Los Angeles as no relocation assistance will be provided. All qualified candidates will be contacted directly.
SoLa Impact is an Equal Opportunity Employer. SoLa does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, non-disqualifying physical or mental disability, national origin, veteran status or any other basis covered by appropriate law. All employment is decided on the basis of qualifications, merit, and business need.
Salary : $35 - $45
