Position: Sous Chef – Banquets
Location: Philadelphia, PA
Reports To: Executive Chef
Works With: Culinary Team, Banquets Team, Hotel Operations
The Study at University City seeks a motivated Sous Chef specializing in banquets and catering. This role oversees culinary operations for 7,000 square feet of event spaces and the restaurant, delivering exceptional experiences for a variety of functions.
The Sous Chef collaborates with the Executive Chef to manage daily culinary operations. Primary responsibilities include banquet and catering execution, with occasional support for restaurant service to uphold quality and guest satisfaction.
Our dedicated team believes exceptional guest service is our highest priority. We welcome energetic, service-focused culinary professionals who are passionate about hospitality, quality cuisine, and delivering memorable dining and event experiences.
Kitchen Snapshot
CO-OP Restaurant & Lounge – Located within The Study at University City
Approximately 120-seat restaurant and lounge
7,000 square feet of meeting and event space
Banquets, university events, corporate meetings, and private functions
Seasonal menus and scratch cooking
Collaborative culinary team led by the Executive Chef
Responsibilities
Support culinary leadership for banquet and catering events across 7,000 square feet of event space.
Direct daily kitchen operations with the Executive Chef, ensuring effective preparation, production, and service.
Ensure banquet menus and event production are executed consistently to quality standards.
Oversee restaurant service operations at CO-OP Restaurant & Lounge as needed.
Supervise, train, and mentor kitchen staff to build strong team performance.
Maintain efficient and cost-effective food production and kitchen operations.
Uphold high standards in food preparation, presentation, and plating.
Ensure food is prepared and served in accordance with quality standards and service timelines.
Manage food storage, rotation, and inventory control to prevent waste and ensure freshness.
Inspect and supervise kitchen equipment to ensure cleanliness, safety, and proper functioning.
Maintain full compliance with food safety and sanitation regulations at all times.
Manage ordering, purchasing, and inventory to support kitchen operations.
Assume the Executive Chef's responsibilities in their absence when necessary.
What You’ll Be Cooking For
University and academic events
Corporate meetings and conferences
Private receptions and social gatherings
Restaurant service at CO-OP Restaurant & Lounge
Fundamentals
High school diploma or GED required; formal culinary training or associate degree in culinary arts preferred.
Experience: 2+ years of experience in a fine dining, upscale casual, or hotel culinary environment.
Banquet, catering, or high-volume event culinary experience strongly preferred.
Food Handler certification required.
Strong knowledge of cooking techniques, ingredients, equipment, and kitchen procedures.
Ability to work flexible schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Proficiency in English required; a second language is a plus.
Strong organizational skills, including time management, multitasking, and prioritization.
Ability to collaborate effectively with culinary staff and hotel departments.
Ability to lift or carry items weighing up to 50 pounds.
Ability to stand for extended periods of time in a kitchen environment.
About Us
The Study at University City is a 212-room hotel at the crossroads of the University of Pennsylvania and Drexel University in the heart of University City, Philadelphia. Designed as a place of discovery and connection, the hotel blends thoughtful hospitality with contemporary residential-inspired guest rooms and welcoming public spaces.
The property features CO-OP Restaurant & Lounge , a lively 120-seat restaurant and lounge known for spirited hospitality and seasonal menus. The hotel also features 7,000 square…