Banquet Sous Chef

Location: Downtown Chicago, IL

Salary: $80K - $90K

Overview

A flawless banquet operation is the heartbeat of any luxury hotel's events business, and the Banquet Sous Chef makes it happen. In this role, you'll partner with the Executive Chef and Banquet Chef to deliver exceptional cuisine for weddings, galas, conferences, and high-profile functions. You'll lead from the line, set the pace in a high-volume kitchen, and uphold the standards that keep guests coming back. If you take pride in precision under pressure, this is where your craft shines.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee banquet food preparation from prep through plating, ensuring every dish meets our quality and presentation standards.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and Banquet Chef on menu development, seasonal offerings, and custom requests for events.
• Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff, building a skilled and motivated team that performs at its best during peak service.
• Execute large-scale events with consistency, timing, and attention to detail, often serving hundreds of guests in a single seating.
• Manage inventory, ordering, and food costs to keep operations efficient and waste low.
• Uphold all health, safety, and sanitation regulations, maintaining a clean and compliant kitchen at all times.
• Step in for the Banquet Chef when needed, taking ownership of daily kitchen operations.

Qualifications

• Proven experience in banquet operations within a luxury or upscale hotel setting.
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of managing and developing kitchen teams.
• Sharp attention to detail in food quality, presentation, and consistency.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, high-volume environment while staying organized and calm.
• Solid knowledge of food safety standards and kitchen compliance.

Preferred

• Experience executing high-profile events such as weddings, galas, and large conferences.
• Familiarity with cost control, inventory systems, and menu costing.
• Background in fine dining or multi-outlet hotel kitchens.

Skills & Competencies

• Clear communication and team leadership under pressure.
• Strong time management and the ability to juggle multiple events at once.
• Creativity in menu execution and plating.
• Problem-solving and quick decision-making during service.
• Commitment to mentorship and team growth.

Why This Role Matters

This is more than a step up. It's a chance to grow your career in an environment that values craftsmanship, leadership, and the kind of standards that define luxury hospitality. You'll work alongside seasoned culinary leaders, sharpen your skills on a grand stage, and build the foundation for your next move toward Banquet Chef or Executive Chef.

Apply Today

Ready to bring your talent to a kitchen that demands the best and rewards it? If you're an experienced culinary leader who thrives when the stakes are high, we want to hear from you. Submit your resume to jay@geckohospitality.com and take the next confident step in your culinary career.