A prestigious university in China has raised eyebrows after advertising a canteen manager position that requires applicants to hold a doctoral degree. The job posting, listed by Southeast University in Nanjing, has fueled discussions about credential inflation in China’s job market.
The role involves managing food services, overseeing canteen contractors, ensuring food safety, and handling administrative paperwork. While these responsibilities seem standard for a managerial position, the PhD requirement has left many questioning whether such high academic qualifications are necessary.
Applicants must also demonstrate proficiency in English and office software, with preference given to those with Communist Party membership and prior experience in food-related fields. The annual salary for the position is reportedly 180,000 yuan (approximately $25,000).
The job listing quickly went viral, with social media users expressing confusion and frustration. Some speculated that the position might be tailored for a specific individual, while others pointed to China’s growing trend of requiring advanced degrees for jobs that traditionally did not need them.
Experts suggest that educational inflation is becoming more common in China, where millions of graduates enter the workforce each year. Many highly qualified individuals struggle to find jobs that match their expertise, leading to overqualification and underemployment.
Following the backlash, a university spokesperson clarified that candidates are not required to be cooks, but preference would be given to those with academic backgrounds in food, nutrition, and culinary arts.
Despite the controversy, the competition for the role is expected to be fierce, as positions at elite universities are often seen as stable and prestigious career opportunities.
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