Sous Chef - Back of House Leader

Spring Gardens of Draper is a vibrant senior living community dedicated to providing exemplary care and a supportive environment for its residents. Known for emphasizing kindness at every level of service, from caregiving to culinary arts, this establishment fosters an atmosphere where respect, teamwork, and personal growth are paramount. The organization prides itself on delivering high-quality, thoughtful service while nurturing a culture built on compassion and excellence. Located in Draper, Spring Gardens offers a fulfilling workplace for professionals committed to improving the quality of life for seniors in a warm, welcoming setting.

We are currently seeking a passionate and energetic Sous Chef to join our culinary team as the Back of House Lead, a pivotal role within our Culinary Services department. This full-time position offers an hourly wage ranging from $21 to $23, depending on experience, and represents a exceptional leadership development opportunity. Reporting directly to the Dining Services Director, the Sous Chef will play an instrumental role in the culinary operation, supporting both food preparation and kitchen management while setting a standard for excellence and kindness in every aspect of their work.

In this role, you will be responsible for executing restaurant-quality cuisine tailored to a senior living environment, ensuring flavor, presentation, and portion consistency meet rigorous standards. You will oversee daily food production, preparation, and service execution, maintaining strict adherence to sanitation, food safety, and regulatory compliance. Beyond cooking, you will prioritize the dining experience of each resident, responding promptly and professionally to feedback and working closely with the front-of-house team to deliver exceptional service. Supporting special events and themed meals is also a key part of this role, fostering resident engagement through culinary excellence.

As a back of house leader, you will supervise and develop culinary team members, stepping in for the Dining Services Director when necessary to lead kitchen operations. Your leadership will nurture a culture of accountability, teamwork, and kindness, with responsibilities that include onboarding, training, performance coaching, and fostering professional communication. The role demands excellent organizational skills and a people-focused leadership style to maintain a productive and positive kitchen environment.

Operationally, the Sous Chef assists with scheduling and manages labor costs, monitors inventory and ordering, and supports cost controls to minimize waste and maximize efficiency. You will help maintain organized production and storage systems and participate in financial and operational training designed to prepare you for further leadership responsibilities.

This position is part of a structured Leadership Development Track, offering mentorship from the Dining Services Director and comprehensive training in full kitchen management. You will gain experience in compliance and regulatory oversight, staffing strategy, budgeting, and operational planning, all aimed at preparing you for advanced roles within the culinary management hierarchy. We seek individuals who demonstrate initiative, ownership, and a readiness for career advancement within the senior living culinary sector.

Ideal candidates will bring at least three years of professional culinary experience, preferably in upscale dining environments, along with prior leadership or supervisory experience. While senior living experience is highly recommended, it is not required. A strong understanding of food safety and sanitation, along with ServSafe certification or willingness to obtain it, is essential. Above all, a customer service-focused and resident-centered mindset, coupled with excellent communication skills, a coachable attitude, and a passion for hospitality, will distinguish successful applicants.

At Spring Gardens of Draper, we believe that how we serve matters just as much as what we serve. This role offers not just a job but a meaningful career path where you can grow as a leader, make a positive impact on residents' lives, and excel professionally in an environment where kindness truly counts.