Sous Chef

JobTitle: Sous Chef Department: Programs Program: Community Access & Food Services Reports To: Community Access & Food Services Program Manager FLSA Status: Non-Exempt/Full Time Application Requirements A detailed resume outlining relevant experience A cover letter tailored to the position A list of professional references A fully completed application Incomplete applications will not be considered. Position Summary Caritas of Austin is a non-profit organization with the mission of preventing and ending homelessness in Greater Austin. The primary role of this position is to assist the Chef in overseeing daily kitchen operations, preparing nutritious meals, and ensure a safe, clean, welcoming environment for volunteers, clients, and diners. This role requires passion for community service, culinary skills, and the ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced setting. The Community Kitchen serves lunch to 200-300 people a day (Monday through Friday) and is open to anyone in the community in need of a meal. Essential Duties & Responsibilities Daily Kitchen Operations Assist the Chef in planning and preparing daily meals for the community kitchen and production of designated items. Ensure all food handling and safety procedures are followed. Develop and train in assisting new volunteers and staff on kitchen procedures and safety protocol. Assist in preparing meals/dining room daily for approximately 200-300 diners and must be present during the entire service to provide ongoing support and guidance. In collaboration with the Chef, ensures that the Community Kitchen consistently opens on time. Responsible for inspecting all food donations prior to acceptance, to ensure compliance with Caritas of Austin and health department policies. Quality control and food inspection are crucial. Assists Chef in establishing consistent procedures and menus for special dietary requests from diners. Responsible for collaborating with the Chef in establishing menus that meet quality standards and can be supported by donations. Responsible for overseeing and performing routine meal service tasks, including but not limited to, preparing fruit, salads, main entrée, desserts, setting up the line, etc. Responsible for overseeing and delegating responsibilities to “Culinary Volunteers” and daily “Volunteer Groups” to ensure a positive and safe experience. Contributes to promoting a positive, respectful, organized, and safe Community Kitchen environment for all volunteers and diners. Maintains a professional demeanor and appropriate attire must always be worn. Take lead in the Kitchen in the absence of the Chef. Inventory and Maintenance Responsible for receiving, storing, and organizing food and supplies daily. Adheres to County Health Department standards in maintaining a clean, sanitary, and safe environment. Responsible for ensuring volunteers and other food service staff members also comply with department guidelines/regulations. Ensure that all kitchen equipment is in working order and used appropriately by staff and volunteers. Notifies Food Services Manager of needed equipment and/or repairs to existing equipment. Organizational Support Functions Participates in Caritas food drives and coordinating in-kind donations as needed, collaborating with Development Department. Drive company van to pick up and drop off inventory as needed. Attends all Caritas quarterly staff meetings and departmental meetings. Assist in other areas of the Food Services program, as needed. Complies with administrative procedures, reporting, and record keeping functions (e.g., temperature logs, donation forms, etc.). Treats diners, staff, volunteers and the public with courtesy and respect. Performs other duties as assigned. Develop an approved plan for professional development with Community Access and Food Services Manager. Qualifications Education Required – High School Diploma or GED. Strongly Preferred – Culinary degree or certification. Experience Required – Minimum of one (1) year of experience in food handling and preparation, three or more years strongly preferred. Ability to work efficiently under pressure. Strong teamwork and communication skills & ability to lead and motivate a diverse team. Computer Skills Basic computer proficiency, including the ability to effectively use email, Microsoft Word, Excel, Outlook, Teams and SharePoint. Proficient in Microsoft Office applications. Ability to accurately maintain records and create spreadsheets using Microsoft Excel. Ability to communicate professionally and respond to emails in a timely manner. Language Skills Preferred – Bilingual (English/Spanish) Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities Ability to multi-task and work in a high-stress environment. Strong customer service and experience working with diverse populations Demonstrated ability to work independently and as part of a team. Other Requirements Must possess, or be able to obtain, a valid Food Manager’s certificate within 30 days of hire. Valid driver's license required. Schedule Monday, Wednesday and Thursday: 8:00am – 5:00pm Tuesday: 8:00am – 7:00pm Friday: 8:00am – 2:00pm Physical Requirements & Work Environment Ability to stand and walk for extended periods, up to 6–7 hours per shift. Ability to frequently bend, stoop, reach, and perform repetitive hand and wrist movements. Ability to lift, carry, push, and pull materials weighing up to 50 pounds. Ability to work in a fast-paced kitchen environment with frequent high-volume meal preparation. Ability to work in varying temperatures, including hot kitchen environments and cold storage areas. Sufficient visual acuity and manual dexterity to safely perform job duties, with or without reasonable accommodation. Commitment to maintaining a clean, organized, and sanitary workspace in accordance with health and safety regulations. Ability to interact professionally and respectfully with staff, volunteers, culinary students, clients, and community members from diverse backgrounds, including individuals experiencing homelessness and other vulnerable populations. Salary/Benefits Base Salary Range: $45,490-$49,490, with final offer based on education and experience Health Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, life, and disability insurance, including one medical plan fully paid by Caritas of Austin for employee-only coverage, with additional plan options available. Time Off: 20 days of PTO in year one (increasing with tenure) and 14 paid holidays. Retirement: 403(b) retirement plan with employer match. Additional Perks: Mileage reimbursement, monthly phone stipend, discounted memberships (e.g., LegalShield), and parking for employees working from the downtown location (if applicable). Student Loan Forgiveness: Caritas of Austin is a qualifying employer under the Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) program. Learn more: Caritas of Austin is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, age, sex, national origin, disability status, genetics, protected veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state, or local laws. #J-18808-Ljbffr