Sous Chef

Lil Vic is looking for a Sous Chef to join the opening team of our new wood-fired French bistro, located in a 126-year-old Victorian farmhouse. Our food is rooted in French technique but driven by the ingredients, farms, and seasons around us. The wood-fired line will be at the center of the kitchen, and our goal is to create food that is thoughtful and refined without becoming overly complicated or precious. We are looking for a Sous Chef who wants to be part of building something from the beginning. This position will work closely with the Chef/Owner to develop the kitchen, establish systems and standards, train and develop the team, and help create the culture we want at Lil Vic. The Right Person We are looking for someone with: A genuine passion for cooking and hospitality Strong foundations in classical cooking techniques An appreciation for French cuisine and regional cooking An interest in working with local farms, producers, and seasonal ingredients High standards for organization, cleanliness, consistency, and execution The ability to lead and teach without ego A desire to continue learning while helping the cooks around them improve The ability to stay organized and composed during a busy service A willingness to be hands-on and work alongside the team Fine dining experience is preferred, but more important is an understanding of the discipline and attention to detail that comes with that environment. The Role The Sous Chef will work directly with the Chef/Owner on: Daily kitchen operations and service Menu development and testing Wood-fire cooking and hearth management Prep and production systems Ordering, receiving, inventory, and product quality Food cost and waste management Kitchen organization and sanitation Training and developing cooks Maintaining consistency and standards during service This is not a position for someone who wants to manage the kitchen from the sidelines. We want someone who enjoys being on the line, cooking, tasting, teaching, organizing, and solving problems alongside the rest of the team. What We're Building Lil Vic is meant to be a restaurant where people take the work seriously without taking themselves too seriously. We want to build a kitchen where cooks are expected to learn, ask questions, develop their skills, and take pride in their work. The Sous Chef will play an important role in creating that environment from day one. For the right person, this is an opportunity to help shape a restaurant rather than simply step into one that already exists.