Job Title: Sous Chef (Small Plates & Sushi Experience) | Leadership Opportunity

Location: Stevensville, MD

Compensation: $25–$31.25 per hour | Guaranteed 40 Hours

About the Opportunity

Gecko Hospitality is proud to partner with a premier waterfront hospitality destination on Maryland’s Eastern Shore to identify a Sous Chef with sushi experience for an upscale dining concept.

This is a unique opportunity to join a growing culinary program tied to a new outlet opening, while also supporting an established, high-volume banquet and events operation. The role is ideal for a well-rounded chef who enjoys both creativity and structure—someone who can contribute to menu development while maintaining strong execution across service periods.

Position Overview

The Sous Chef will support overall kitchen operations while taking ownership of sushi production for both the outlet and special events. This role blends hands-on execution with leadership responsibility, offering the opportunity to influence menu direction while helping build consistency across the team.

This individual will work closely with culinary leadership on menu refinement, seasonal features, and team development, while maintaining high standards in both restaurant and banquet environments.

Key Responsibilities

• Support daily kitchen operations alongside culinary leadership
• Execute sushi offerings including nigiri, sashimi, and basic rolls with consistency and attention to detail
• Maintain proper rice preparation, seafood handling, and knife techniques
• Uphold strict HACCP and food safety standards
• Contribute to menu development, including seasonal updates and small plate offerings
• Support banquet and private event production, including sushi components
• Monitor food cost, portion control, and waste reduction
• Train, mentor, and support kitchen team members to ensure consistent execution
• Maintain organization, cleanliness, and professionalism across all kitchen areas
• Collaborate effectively with front-of-house and culinary teams

What We’re Looking For

• Sous Chef or strong Line/Lead Cook experience in a reputable restaurant or hospitality setting
• Some hands-on sushi experience required (entry-level is welcome; comfort with basic nigiri, sashimi, and rolls)
• Experience working with small plates or shareable concepts in an upscale or quality-driven environment
• Someone who enjoys contributing ideas and advising on menu and seasonal changes
• A team-oriented leader who can train, support, and elevate those around them
• Strong foundational knife skills and understanding of seafood handling
• Experience in high-volume or event-driven environments preferred
• Reliable, detail-oriented, and performance-driven

Compensation & Benefits

• $25–$31.25 per hour
• Guaranteed 40 hours per week
• Stable scheduling within standard restaurant operating hours
• Employee meals during scheduled shifts
• Employee discounts on property amenities and services
• 401(k) match up to 3% (after eligibility requirements)
• Accrued sick leave
• Health, dental, and vision insurance options for eligible full-time employees
• Paid time off and paid holidays for eligible employees

Interview Process

Qualified candidates will participate in a leadership interview followed by a live culinary assessment.

Gecko Hospitality proudly supports the growth of culinary professionals across Maryland, Virginia, and Washington, D.C.

Let Go, And Let Gecko ™