Position Summary
The Sous Chef is the Executive Chef's right hand and plays a critical leadership role in the daily operation of the kitchen. This position is responsible for maintaining exceptional food quality, leading and developing the culinary team, ensuring consistency, and creating a positive, accountable kitchen culture.
The Sous Chef leads by example, maintains high standards, and ensures every plate leaving the kitchen reflects Showroom's commitment to excellence. When the Executive Chef is off, the Sous Chef is expected to confidently manage all kitchen operations.
Key Responsibilities
Culinary Leadership
- Execute all menu items to Showroom's recipes, specifications, and presentation standards.
- Ensure every dish is prepared with consistency, quality, and attention to detail.
- Monitor food quality throughout every service.
- Assist with menu development, seasonal specials, and recipe testing.
- Maintain proper food handling, storage, and labeling procedures.
Kitchen Operations
- Supervise all kitchen staff during prep and service.
- Manage opening and closing kitchen procedures.
- Coordinate production to ensure smooth and efficient service.
- Maintain proper prep levels and communicate production needs.
- Monitor ticket times and work with the front-of-house team to deliver an outstanding guest experience.
- Troubleshoot operational issues quickly and professionally.
Team Leadership
- Coach, train, and mentor line cooks, prep cooks, and dishwashers.
- Foster a respectful, positive, and team-oriented culture.
- Hold employees accountable to performance and behavioral expectations.
- Assist with hiring, onboarding, and training new kitchen employees.
- Conduct daily pre-shift meetings when needed.
- Lead with professionalism, urgency, and integrity.
Safety & Sanitation
- Maintain compliance with all health department regulations.
- Ensure ServSafe standards are followed at all times.
- Enforce cleanliness throughout the kitchen.
- Verify all equipment is properly maintained and operating safely.
- Address safety concerns immediately.
Hospitality & Culture
At Showroom, hospitality extends beyond the dining room.
The Sous Chef is expected to:
- Treat every team member with respect and professionalism.
- Promote a culture of teamwork, accountability, and continuous improvement.
- Communicate calmly and respectfully, even during busy service.
- Lead with humility and set the standard through actions.
- Help create an environment where employees enjoy coming to work and guests receive an exceptional experience.
Qualifications
- Minimum 3–5 years of kitchen leadership experience.
- Pastry experience a plus, but not a must.
- Previous Sous Chef or equivalent supervisory experience preferred.
- Strong knowledge of culinary techniques and food safety.
- Experience managing high-volume service.
- Excellent communication and leadership skills.
- Ability to multitask under pressure.
- ServSafe Certification (or ability to obtain).
Physical Requirements
- Ability to stand for extended periods.
- Lift up to 50 pounds.
- Bend, reach, kneel, and work in a fast-paced kitchen.
- Ability to work nights, weekends, holidays, and extended shifts as needed.
Success Looks Like
A successful Sous Chef at Showroom:
- Leads with confidence while supporting the Executive Chef.
- Builds a strong, positive kitchen culture.
- Produces consistently excellent food.
- Maintains calm during busy service.
- Develops and mentors the culinary team.
- Takes ownership of problems and finds solutions.
- Protects the restaurant's standards, reputation, and profitability.
- Earns the trust and respect of both the kitchen and front-of-house teams.
Core Values
Every decision should reflect Showroom's values:
- Hospitality First
- Quality Without Compromise
- Integrity Always
- Respect Everyone
- Be Accountable
- Continue Learning
- Communicate Clearly
- Lead by Example
- Win as One Team
The Sous Chef is expected to embody these values every day while helping create memorable dining experiences for every guest and a workplace where employees are proud to be part of the Showroom team.
Pay: $55,000.00 - $65,000.00 per year
Benefits:
- 401(k) matching
- Food provided
- Health insurance
- Paid time off
Work Location: In person
