Job Overview

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Benefits

competitive compensation
performance-based bonus opportunities
Medical insurance
Dental Insurance
Vision Insurance
401(k) with Company Match
Company-paid Life Insurance
Disability Coverage
Career growth opportunities
education and tuition assistance
Team Member Dining Discounts
Discount Program
Employee assistance program (EAP)
Wellbeing resources

Job Description

Maggiano's Little Italy is a renowned restaurant brand under Brinker International, famously known for its scratch-made Italian-American cuisine and family-style hospitality. Rooted in the rich traditions of 1940s Little Italy dinner houses, Maggiano's offers what it calls 'approachable elegance' — delivering an upscale dining experience that is warm, inviting, and unpretentious. Located in the vibrant South Coast Plaza area in Costa Mesa, CA, this establishment has become a destination for commemorating life’s special moments ranging from anniversaries and graduations to casual dinners that foster lasting memories. Its core philosophy centers around great food bringing people together, emphasized through authentic recipes, quality ingredients, and genuine hospitality.

The role of Sous Chef at Maggiano’s Little Italy is integral to maintaining the brand’s culinary standards and exceptional guest experiences. This is a leadership opportunity within a full-service restaurant dedicated to Italian-American classics. As Sous Chef, you will act as the heartbeat of the kitchen, responsible for leading the line during service, mentoring cooks and prep staff, and ensuring every dish meets the exemplary quality and consistency Maggiano’s is celebrated for. You will work closely alongside the Executive Chef to uphold culinary standards, manage daily kitchen operations, and foster a culture of learning and growth among kitchen team members.

This role offers more than just a job; it’s a career path leading toward professional development and leadership opportunities within the larger Brinker International family. Many Executive Chefs have advanced from the Sous Chef role, reflecting the company’s commitment to promoting from within and nurturing talent passionate about both Italian-American cuisine and guest hospitality. You will have the chance to refine your culinary craft, influence a dynamic, high-performing team, and directly impact the quality of the dining experience for guests every day. Employment type is full-time, and compensation is competitive, complemented by opportunities for performance-based bonuses and comprehensive benefits.

Job Requirements

  • 2+ years of culinary leadership experience in a full-service restaurant
  • strong knowledge of Italian-American cuisine and cooking techniques
  • ability to lead train and motivate a team
  • understanding of food safety sanitation regulations
  • availability to work evenings weekends and holidays
  • physically able to work in a busy restaurant environment including lifting up to 30 lbs
  • good communication and teamwork skills

Job Qualifications

  • 2+ years of culinary leadership experience in a full-service restaurant
  • strong command of Italian-American cuisine and classic cooking techniques
  • proven ability to lead train and motivate a kitchen team
  • knowledge of food safety sanitation and health code compliance
  • flexibility to work evenings weekends and holidays as needed
  • able to perform essential job functions in a dynamic restaurant environment including exposure to varying temperatures noise levels and peak-hour demands
  • able to move throughout the restaurant retrieve items from shelves and storage areas and transport supplies weighing up to 30 lbs with or without reasonable accommodation

Job Duties

  • Lead daily kitchen operations ensuring seamless execution during service
  • coach and develop line cooks prep cooks and kitchen teammates
  • maintain food quality consistency and presentation standards across all menu items
  • perform line checks to guarantee every dish meets Maggiano's specifications
  • manage food production prep lists and inventory to minimize waste
  • uphold sanitation and food safety standards in compliance with health regulations
  • step into any kitchen station as needed to support the team during high-volume periods
  • collaborate with leadership to control food costs and drive operational excellence

Job Criteria

Experience

Mid Level (3-7 years)


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