Sous Chef

Job Title: Sous Chef
Department: Culinary, Kitchen

The Sous Chef is the second-in-command in the kitchen and plays a vital role in ensuring smooth kitchen operations. The Sous Chef assists the Executive Chef with menu planning, food preparation, and kitchen management while maintaining high culinary standards. The role includes supervising kitchen staff, ensuring quality control, and complying with health and safety regulations.
Additional Information:

• Nationality: Preferably South African, Lebanese, Italian, or other expatriate nationalities with top-notch culinary skills for a fine dining restaurant.
• Location: Lagos, Nigeria.
• Salary: Starting from $1,500 (Min-Max Range).
• Vacancies: 2 positions.

• Assist the Executive Chef with menu planning, food preparation, and execution of daily operations.
• Supervise and train kitchen staff to ensure consistent food quality and effective kitchen operations.
• Maintain high standards of food quality, presentation, and safety.
• Oversee inventory management, ensuring proper stock levels and minimizing waste.
• Monitor kitchen safety, cleanliness, and hygiene according to health and safety regulations (HACCP).
• Manage food costs and ensure budget adherence, including portion control and waste management.
• Handle any kitchen issues or challenges and find solutions to ensure smooth operations.
• Lead the kitchen in the Executive Chef’s absence.

• Minimum of 5+ years of experience in culinary arts, with at least 1–2 years in a supervisory role (e.g., Junior Sous Chef or Chef de Partie).
• High school diploma or equivalent; culinary school diploma or certification is highly preferred.
• A degree in Culinary Arts, Hospitality Management, or a related field is a plus.
• Professional certifications in food safety (HACCP, ServSafe, or equivalent) are preferred.
• If no formal degree, extensive hands-on experience (5+ years) in a fine dining restaurant will be considered.

• High energy and resilience, capable of working long hours in a demanding environment.
• Self-motivated and disciplined, with the ability to work independently and take initiative.
• Professionalism in maintaining a respectful and positive attitude towards staff and management.
• Integrity and accountability in overseeing kitchen operations.

• Strong verbal communication skills to provide clear instructions to kitchen staff.
• Active listening skills to receive and act on feedback from staff and management.
• Proficiency in written communication to maintain kitchen logs, reports, and inventory records.
• Strong interpersonal skills to collaborate effectively with chefs, service staff, and suppliers.

1. Knowledge:

   • Extensive knowledge of culinary techniques, food preparation, and plating.
   • Strong understanding of kitchen operations, food safety (HACCP), and hygiene regulations.
   • Familiarity with various cuisines and the ability to create innovative dishes.
   • Awareness of cost control strategies, inventory management, and budgeting.

2. Skills:

   • Leadership & Team Management: Ability to supervise and mentor kitchen staff.
   • Time Management: Ability to work in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
   • Problem-Solving: Quick thinking to resolve kitchen challenges efficiently.
   • Creativity: Ability to innovate and elevate menu offerings.
   • Attention to Detail: Ensuring consistency in food quality and presentation.

3. Attitude & Behavior:

   • Passion for cooking and a commitment to maintaining high culinary standards.
   • Strong work ethic and ability to thrive under pressure.
   • Adaptability to different kitchen challenges and changes.
   • Proactive approach to improving kitchen operations.
   • Team player with a willingness to collaborate.