Sous Chef
Location: Bolivar, Tennessee
Restaurant Type: Upscale, Chef-driven Southern American Cuisine
Simon’s on the Square
SimonsBolivar.com
Position Overview
Simon’s on the Square is seeking an experienced Sous Chef to assist our Chef and back-of-house operations for a four-year-old, upscale restaurant & bar, event venue, and catering business in historic downtown Bolivar, Tennessee. This is a hands-on, working Sous Chef role requiring both culinary creativity and disciplined operational leadership. As Sous Chef, you'll work alongside our Executive Chef to oversee daily kitchen operations, maintain the highest standards of food quality and presentation, and help lead a fast-paced, team-oriented kitchen.
The Sous Chef reports directly to the Head Chef, General Manager and Ownership and collaborates closely on menu development, financial performance, and special events.
About Simon’s on the Square
Simon’s features seating for approximately 100 guests in the bar and dining room, with an additional 30-seat outdoor patio and music stage. Adjacent to the restaurant in a separate building is a private event space, 215 by Simon’s, accommodating up to 50 guests. The restaurant serves lunch and dinner Wednesday through Friday, dinner only on Saturday, brunch only on Sunday, and is closed Monday and Tuesday. It has currently earned 4.8 stars on OpenTable, achieved the OpenTable Diner’s Choice award for 2025, has 4.5 stars on Google Reviews, and was voted Best in Tennessee American Cuisine Restaurant award in 2025.
The kitchen is well-equipped, including walk-in refrigerator and freezer and large wood- and gas-fired 9-rack rotisserie smoker.
The bar program includes a 40-bottle international wine selection with a 16-bottle Cruvinet system for premium wines by the glass. It features hand-crafted specialty cocktails. Wine tasting dinners occur regularly.
Operational platforms include Toast POS and MarginEdge for inventory and cost control.
Simon’s employs an average staff of 20 team members and generates nearly $1 million in annual revenue, with approximately 30% revenue growth achieved in 2025, driven largely by expanding catering and special events.
Located in a beautifully restored 100-year-old building on Bolivar’s Historic Courthouse Square, Simon’s draws guests from a 60+ mile radius, requiring thoughtful and unique menu design that makes the restaurant a true destination. It has the comfortable ambiance of a modern neighborhood restaurant. Bolivar’s historic square sets the stage with its classic brick architecture, rich history, and small-town character and warm welcoming spirit.
Responsibilities
- Assist in leading all back-of-house kitchen operations
- Prepare and present high-quality menu items with consistency
- Ensure food safety, sanitation, and cleanliness standards are maintained
- Supervise and mentor kitchen staff while fostering a positive team environment
- Assist with inventory, ordering, and food cost management
- Help develop seasonal features and menu specials
- Maintain quality, efficiency, and organization during busy service periods
Qualifications
- Previous Sous Chef experience in a high-volume restaurant
- Strong knowledge of food preparation techniques and kitchen operations
- Ability to lead by example with professionalism and integrity
- Excellent organizational and communication skills
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment
- Flexible schedule, including evenings and weekends
Personal Attributes We Value
- Genuine passion for hospitality and culinary craftsmanship
- Collaborative, team-first mindset – a total team player
- Strong work ethic and attention to detail
- Adaptable, solutions-oriented approach
- Respect for staff, guests, and the local community
- Desire for long-term stability and professional growth
- A respectful, calm attitude
Compensation & Benefits
- Competitive salary, commensurate with experience
- Performance incentives and bonus opportunities
- Meaningful creative input and menu influence
- Supportive ownership and collaborative leadership environment
- Opportunity to make a lasting impact in a respected, growing restaurant
Why Bolivar, Tennessee?
This position offers the opportunity to lead an upscale kitchen in a community where quality dining truly stands out and is deeply appreciated. It is ideal for a chef seeking work-life balance, meaningful leadership responsibility, and the chance to build something lasting in a destination restaurant. The Ownership is invested in a lasting successful restaurant.
Job Type: Full-time
Pay: $45,000.00 - $50,000.00 per year
Work Location: In person
