Become a Sous Chef at the U.S. Naval Academy
Are you a culinary leader looking for a challenge that combines high-level gastronomy with a noble mission? The Naval Academy Business Services Division (NABSD) is currently hiring a Sous Chef to support our expanding hospitality operations in Annapolis, Maryland. This role is a perfect match for professionals who take pride in their work and want to serve the community that develops the nation's future leaders.
Job Responsibilities
As a Sous Chef, your days will be fast-paced and rewarding. Your primary duties include:
- Food Production: Preparing meals for banquets, luncheons, and special events.
- Leadership: Supervising junior kitchen personnel and stepping in for the Executive Chef when necessary.
- Operations: Managing kitchen equipment, maintaining par levels, and ensuring storage areas are organized.
- Quality Control: Ensuring every dish meets our strict presentation and portion standards.
Requirements
Candidates must demonstrate a foundation of culinary skill. Our minimum requirements include:
| Requirement | Criteria |
|---|---|
| Experience | 1+ year in culinary roles or 1+ year graduate education |
| Physicality | Ability to lift up to 50 lbs and stand for full shifts |
| Compliance | Strict adherence to health and safety standards |
Salary and Benefits
We offer a competitive hourly rate of $25 - $30. Beyond the paycheck, we provide a robust benefits package designed to support your long-term success, including medical/dental, 401(k) retirement plans, and paid leave. You will also enjoy exclusive access to Navy facilities and fitness centers.
Application Tips
To ensure your application is successful, keep your resume under two pages and focus on your achievements in kitchen leadership and recipe management. Be sure to highlight any certifications, such as ServSafe, to give yourself a competitive edge.
This position offers more than just a job; it is an opportunity to be part of a team that supports the Brigade of Midshipmen. If you are ready to elevate your career, apply now through the official portal.
Why This Sous Chef Job Matters
Elevate your culinary career at the heart of leadership development by joining the prestigious Naval Academy Business Services Division as a Sous Chef.
Sous Chef Job Overview
The Naval Academy Business Services Division (NABSD) is seeking a skilled Sous Chef to support our vibrant hospitality team in Annapolis, Maryland. In this role, you will lead kitchen production for a diverse range of banquet events, ensuring high-quality service for our distinguished guests and the Brigade of Midshipmen. As a Non-Appropriated Fund Instrumentality (NAFI) position, this role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a mission-driven organization while building a rewarding career in a dynamic, high-volume environment.
Requirements for Sous Chef
- One year of specialized culinary experience involving advanced techniques, complete meal preparation for special events, and culinary supervision
- Alternatively, one full year of completed graduate-level education
- Ability to lift and move objects weighing up to 30 lbs consistently, with occasional lifting of 50 lbs or more
- Must be able to maintain consistent standing and walking for the duration of a shift
- Adherence to all state and local food safety, health, and hygiene regulations
Preferred Qualifications for Sous Chef
- Professional experience at the Sous Chef level in restaurants, catering, or country clubs
- Formal Culinary Arts education
- Demonstrated experience in managing, documenting, and standardizing complex recipes and menus
- Proficiency with back-of-house (BOH) management software such as Yellow Dog, Restaurant365, or similar platforms
- Current ServSafe certification
- Proven track record of coaching junior staff on standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety compliance
Federal Benefits & Perks
- ✓Medical, dental, and long-term disability insurance coverage
- ✓Health Savings Account (HSA) and Flexible Spending Account (FSA) options
- ✓Automatic retirement enrollment with 401(k) and Roth 401(k) options
- ✓Generous paid vacation and sick leave accrual
- ✓Access to MWR facilities and Brigade Sports Complex
- ✓Membership eligibility for Navy Federal Credit Union
- ✓Employee assistance programs and childcare resources
💡 How to Apply Sous Chef Job & Insider Tips
Application Steps for Sous Chef Job
- Prepare a resume that does not exceed two pages in length
- Ensure all supporting documents (transcripts, DD-214, or SF50 if applicable) are ready for upload
- Visit the official Naval Academy Business Services website before the closing date
- Submit your application and required documents by the noon deadline
- Monitor your email for confirmation of a successful submission
💡 General Tips
- Keep your resume concise and strictly adhere to the two-page limit
- Highlight specific instances where you led kitchen teams or resolved production issues
- Clearly articulate your experience with BOH software to stand out to the hiring committee
- Submit your application early to avoid potential last-minute technical delays
- Ensure your resume explicitly maps to the KSA requirements provided in the job description
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this position government-funded?
No. This is a Non-Appropriated Fund (NAF) position, meaning the program generates its own funds through its business operations.
What is the work schedule like?
The role requires 7-8 hour shifts that may fall on mornings, evenings, weekdays, weekends, or holidays depending on event schedules.
Job from Commander, Navy Installations Command
The Naval Academy Business Services Division is the heartbeat of campus convenience and hospitality. As a Non-Appropriated Fund Instrumentality (NAFI), the organization operates independently of Congressional funding, sustaining itself through excellence in hospitality and retail services. We serve the Brigade of Midshipmen, faculty, and guests, providing everything from daily dining services to high-profile banquet events.