Catering Sous Chef (Richmond)

Richmond, VA, USA|

Job Overview

Compensation

Salary

Range $49,500.00 - $66,800.00

Benefits

Paid holidays

Sick Time

vacation

floating holidays

Medical insurance

Dental Insurance

Vision Insurance

401(k) retirement plan

Life insurance

short-term disability

Employee assistance program

Free Employee shift meal

Gym membership discount

Employee Discounts

Job Description

Groovin' Gourmets is the catering division of Trolley Hospitality Companies, a well-established hospitality group based in Richmond, Virginia, that serves the greater Richmond and Hampton Roads regions. Known for delivering fresh, chef-crafted meals alongside seamless service, Groovin' Gourmets specializes in catering for a variety of events including corporate functions, weddings, and social occasions of all sizes. This respected company prides itself on a commitment to quality that extends beyond just the food, emphasizing the importance of their team and workplace culture. Rooted in a philosophy of "delivering happiness," Groovin' Gourmets fosters a positive and supportive environment where every employee's contribution is highly valued. This dedication to both quality and culture is a defining feature of Groovin' Gourmets and its parent company, Trolley Hospitality Companies.

The Catering Sous Chef role at Groovin' Gourmets is a key leadership position that blends hands-on culinary expertise with essential management responsibilities. This full-time opportunity offers an annual salary range of $44,000 to $55,000 and is ideal for a skilled and motivated culinary professional looking to advance their career in a vibrant, growth-oriented catering environment. The Sous Chef will work collaboratively with the Executive Chef and kitchen staff to maintain the highest standards of culinary excellence while managing kitchen operations smoothly and efficiently.

In this role, you will oversee the preparation and presentation of high-quality dishes in line with established recipes and standards. You will be directly involved in menu development, creatively contributing to seasonal and event-specific offerings. Managing food quality and inventory, practicing cost control, training team members, and ensuring food safety and sanitation compliance are all critical components of this job. Additionally, you will serve as the lead event chef for off-site catering events, managing on-site culinary operations and coordinating with event staff and coordinators to guarantee a flawless execution.

The Catering Sous Chef will have the opportunity to make a significant impact by driving process improvements, solving operational challenges, and mentoring staff to build a successful, motivated kitchen team. The position requires a proactive, all-hands-on-deck mentality, requiring readiness to adapt to the fast pace and varied nature of catering. You will demonstrate leadership not only within the kitchen but also during events, ensuring that every culinary detail meets the exceptional standards Groovin' Gourmets is known for.

Working at Groovin' Gourmets means joining a company where values such as doing the right thing, maintaining a can-do attitude, embracing transparency and honesty, and always striving for growth are deeply ingrained. The company offers a comprehensive benefits package including paid holidays, sick time, vacation, medical, dental, and vision insurance options, a 401(k) retirement plan with company match, life insurance, disability coverage, employee assistance programs, free shift meals, and various discounts. This role is perfect for someone who is passionate about culinary arts, eager to grow professionally, and enthusiastic about contributing to a team-driven culture that truly values its people.

Job Requirements

3+ years of experience in a professional kitchen
1+ years of kitchen management experience
valid driver's license with a minimum of three years of safe driving history
ServSafe certification required
ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends
physical ability to lift heavy items and stand for extended periods
excellent organizational and time management skills
strong team player with a positive attitude

Job Qualifications

3+ years of experience in a professional kitchen
1+ years of kitchen management experience
valid driver's license with a minimum of three years of safe driving history
ServSafe certification
strong leadership and communication skills
ability to multitask and work efficiently under pressure
knowledge of food safety regulations and proper sanitation practices
proficiency in inventory management and cost control
experience in catering or off-site event operations preferred

Job Duties

Ensure consistent execution of high-quality dishes in accordance with recipes and presentation standards
Oversee food preparation for all catering events, ensuring flavor, texture, and visual appeal meet expectations
Monitor ingredient freshness and rotate stock using FIFO practices
Collaborate with the Executive Chef to develop creative, seasonal, and event-specific catering menus
Participate in and lead menu tastings with clients and event planners
Incorporate client feedback and adjust offerings as needed
Assist in coordinating kitchen logistics for off-site catering, including transportation, setup, and breakdown
Ensure all necessary equipment and supplies are packed and prepared for each event
Maintain clear communication with event coordinators and front-of-house staff for seamless service
Serve as the Lead Event Chef at assigned events, directing on-site culinary operations, maintaining food quality and presentation standards, and addressing operational challenges in real time
Supervise and support kitchen staff on the preparation, cooking, garnishing, presentation, and delivery coordination of food for tastings and catering
Determine the schedule of production and staff requirements necessary to ensure timely delivery of services
Oversee daily cleaning of kitchen equipment, workstations, and storage areas and ensure strict adherence to food safety and sanitation regulations
Demonstrate new cooking techniques and/or equipment to staff
Ensure overall positive morale of the kitchen staff
Demonstrate professionalism by being on time and ready for the day
Recruit and hire staff as needed
Lead kitchen staff meetings within area of responsibility
Direct and track employee performance
Assist Executive Chef with disciplinary actions
Order or requisition food, beverage, and other supplies
Receive, inspect, and properly store all incoming deliveries
Organize and maintain storage areas to ensure efficiency and food safety compliance
Track inventory usage and communicate with the chef regarding ordering needs or shortages
Meet with vendors and sales representatives to negotiate pricing and terms
Code supplier invoices for accounting
Create invoices for product transfers
Analyze recipes and assign menu prices based on food, labor, and overhead costs
Estimate amounts and costs of required supplies
Monitor profitability of catering operations
Track and manage order, prep, and allocation worksheets
Record production and operational data
Monitor production schedules, staffing needs, and kitchen equipment readiness
Ensure food quality standards from raw product to final service
Inspect supplies, equipment, and work areas for safety and sanitation
Arrange for equipment purchases, repairs, or maintenance
Identify operational issues and implement solutions
Collaborate with management on budgets and P&L discussions
Assist Executive Chef with essential business duties
Report issues directly to Executive Chef