Sous Chef

Location: Edgewater, NJ

We are seeking an experienced and passionate Sous Chef to join our culinary team at a high-volume, upscale restaurant in Edgewater, NJ. This is an exciting opportunity for a hands-on culinary leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and takes pride in delivering exceptional food quality, consistency, and presentation.

The ideal candidate will have strong line-cooking experience, excellent leadership skills, and the ability to support the Executive Chef in managing daily kitchen operations. Experience with Latin, Caribbean, Spanish, or other globally inspired cuisine is a plus.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist the Executive Chef with the daily operation and management of the kitchen.
• Lead and supervise kitchen staff during service to ensure smooth and efficient execution.
• Maintain high standards for food quality, presentation, portion control, and consistency.
• Prepare and execute menu items across multiple stations, including grill, sauté, seafood, and cold preparation.
• Ensure all recipes, cooking techniques, and plating standards are followed consistently.
• Train, coach, and develop cooks and other kitchen team members.
• Assist with scheduling, station assignments, and daily kitchen organization.
• Monitor food quality, freshness, and proper storage throughout each shift.
• Assist with ordering, receiving, inventory, and proper product rotation.
• Control food waste and help maintain food-cost targets.
• Maintain a clean, organized, and sanitary kitchen in accordance with health and safety standards.
• Ensure proper execution during high-volume dinner service, weekends, private events, and special functions.
• Work closely with the front-of-house team to maintain proper ticket times and guest satisfaction.
• Assist with menu development, specials, and seasonal culinary initiatives.
• Step into the Executive Chef's role when needed and provide strong leadership during service.

Qualifications

• 3+ years of professional kitchen experience, preferably in a high-volume restaurant.
• Previous Sous Chef, Chef de Cuisine, or strong Kitchen Manager experience preferred.
• Strong understanding of professional cooking techniques and kitchen operations.
• Experience working with seafood, meats, sauces, and scratch cooking.
• Ability to lead a team while remaining hands-on during service.
• Strong knowledge of food safety, sanitation, and proper food-handling procedures.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.
• Ability to remain calm and effective in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment.
• Flexible schedule, including nights, weekends, and holidays.
• Culinary degree or formal culinary training is a plus but not required.
• Latin Caribbean or multicultural culinary experience is highly preferred.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary based on experience.
• Opportunity to work in a high-volume, upscale restaurant environment.
• Growth and advancement opportunities.
• Collaborative and energetic culinary team.
• Opportunity to contribute to menu development and culinary execution.
• Dynamic environment with dinner service, private events, and special occasions.

If you are a motivated culinary professional looking to take the next step in your career and lead a talented kitchen team, we want to hear from you. Qualified candidates are encouraged to apply today!