Mezza Luna Pasta & Seafood is seeking an experienced Lead Sous Chef / Kitchen Lead to work directly alongside our Executive Chef in an upscale, chef-driven Italian kitchen.
We are looking for a strong kitchen leader who can confidently run dinner service, maintain high standards under pressure, and oversee kitchen operations when the Executive Chef is off-site or taking time away from the restaurant.
This is not a corporate kitchen position. We are a family-owned restaurant focused on authentic Italian cuisine, fresh ingredients, scratch cooking, consistency, and hospitality.
Responsibilities
- Lead and control dinner service during busy shifts
- Maintain food quality, presentation, and consistency
- Communicate effectively with kitchen staff and front-of-house management
- Keep the kitchen organized, clean, and efficient under pressure
- Manage ticket flow and ensure smooth service execution
- Support and uphold the standards established by the Executive Chef
- Assist with station management, prep coordination, and daily kitchen operations
- Opportunity to contribute menu ideas and specials when desired
Qualifications
- Minimum 5 years of professional kitchen experience
- Previous experience as a Lead Line Cook, Sous Chef, Kitchen Manager, or similar leadership role preferred
- Experience in upscale, scratch, or high-volume kitchens
- Strong leadership, organizational, and communication skills
- Ability to remain calm, focused, and detail-oriented during busy services
- Spanish fluency or strong conversational Spanish required, as the kitchen team primarily communicates in Spanish
- Italian cuisine experience is a plus but not required
What We Offer
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Stable, family-owned restaurant environment
- Opportunity to work directly with an experienced Executive Chef
- Collaborative kitchen culture focused on quality and professionalism
- Long-term growth opportunities within the company
Pay: $62,000.00 - $75,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person