Sous Chef,

Union City, NJ, USA|Onsite

Job Overview

Employment Type

Full-time

Work Schedule

Flexible

Day Shifts

Weekend Shifts

Benefits

Health Insurance

Vision Insurance

Dental Insurance

Paid Time Off

Retirement Plan

Employee Discounts

Professional development opportunities

Job Description

Smith is a distinguished culinary establishment recognized for its commitment to excellence in the restaurant industry. At Smith, the focus is on delivering exceptional dining experiences through innovative menus, meticulous kitchen operations, and outstanding customer service. As a respected restaurant, Smith prides itself on its deeply ingrained values of quality, consistency, and collaboration, fostering an environment where both staff and guests feel welcomed and valued. The restaurant combines a vibrant atmosphere with high culinary standards, and it continually seeks to push the boundaries of gastronomy, ensuring guests enjoy not just a meal but a memorable event.

The role of the Sous Chef at Smith is pivotal to maintaining the seamless operation of the kitchen’s back of house, ensuring maximum efficiency and consistency in food preparation and delivery. As a key leadership figure directly accountable to the Head Chef, the Sous Chef plays an integral role in upholding the restaurant’s culinary reputation by managing kitchen staff, developing menus, and overseeing food quality. This position requires a dynamic leader who exemplifies commitment, enthusiasm, integrity, humility, and the ability to maintain grace under pressure.

The Sous Chef leads by example, offering guidance, coaching, and training to both new and seasoned kitchen team members to foster continuous professional growth and efficiency. Apart from managing day-to-day kitchen functions, the Sous Chef collaborates closely with the Head Chef and Culinary Director on menu development, ensuring that all dishes reflect seasonal inspiration and creative excellence in line with Smith’s brand standards. By overseeing ingredient preparation, food quality, and presentation, the Sous Chef supports a culinary environment of precision and innovation.

This role also necessitates robust collaboration with Front of House management to ensure smooth communication and operations between the kitchen and dining areas, enhancing overall guest satisfaction. The Sous Chef participates in weekly managerial meetings and training sessions, reinforcing continuous improvement aligned with Smith's strategic goals. Accountability spans a wide range of operational responsibilities, including kitchen management, inventory control, food safety compliance, and fostering a positive work environment. The compensation package includes an annual salary supplemented by health benefits eligibility beginning the month after 60 days of service, with additional vision and dental plans available, reinforcing Smith’s commitment to employee well-being and professional fulfillment.

Overall, the Sous Chef position at Smith is designed for a motivated culinary professional with proven leadership skills, a passion for the culinary arts, and an unwavering dedication to excellence and teamwork. This role offers a rewarding career opportunity to influence and shape an outstanding culinary team within a highly respected restaurant setting.

Job Requirements

Proven culinary experience in a professional kitchen setting
Prior supervisory or leadership experience in a culinary role
Strong knowledge of diverse cooking techniques and cuisines
Excellent leadership and team management skills
Effective communication skills
Ability to work flexible hours including evenings weekends and holidays
Commitment to maintaining high standards of kitchen safety and sanitation
Ability to collaborate with front of house management

Job Qualifications

Three to five years proven experience in a culinary role with at least one to two years in a supervisory or leadership position
Strong culinary skills with expertise in a variety of cuisines and cooking techniques
Excellent leadership and interpersonal skills with the ability to motivate and inspire a team
Strong organizational and multitasking abilities with the ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively
Clear and effective communication skills both verbal and written with the ability to communicate professionally with team members and management
Ability to work evenings weekends and holidays as required
A collaborative and team-oriented attitude with a willingness to pitch in and assist wherever needed

Job Duties

Assist the Head Chef in managing all aspects of kitchen operations including food preparation cooking and plating
Collaborate with the Head Chef and Culinary Director to create innovative and seasonally inspired menus
Oversee the preparation of ingredients and ensure all dishes are prepared according to recipes and quality standards
Provide guidance training and support to kitchen staff ensuring efficient and effective duty performance
Maintain high standards of food quality taste and presentation through regular inspections and tastings
Assist in managing inventory levels ordering supplies and minimizing food waste to optimize cost control
Ensure compliance with all health safety and sanitation regulations maintaining a clean and organized kitchen environment
Foster a positive and collaborative work environment working closely with other kitchen staff and departments to ensure seamless coordination and guest satisfaction
Contribute to the overall guest experience by delivering exceptional service and responding promptly to guest feedback and requests