Sous Chef

Sous Chef

Location: Edwards, Colorado 81632

Employment Type: Full-Time

About This Opportunity

Join our culinary team as a Sous Chef and take your passion for exceptional cuisine to the next level. We're seeking a creative, detail-oriented culinary professional who thrives in a high-energy kitchen environment and is committed to delivering outstanding food experiences. In this role, you'll collaborate with our Culinary Manager and leadership team to craft innovative seasonal menus, mentor kitchen staff, and maintain the highest standards of food quality and kitchen excellence. If you're driven by culinary artistry and possess strong leadership skills, we'd love to meet you.

Key Responsibilities

• Direct food preparation and collaborate closely with the Culinary Manager to execute the kitchen vision
• Create and contribute to the design of innovative food and beverage menus, with emphasis on seasonal ingredients and client preferences
• Produce consistently high-quality plated dishes that excel in both visual presentation and taste
• Oversee and supervise kitchen staff, providing guidance, training, and performance feedback
• Manage menu planning, inventory control, and supply chain to optimize costs and minimize waste
• Ensure the kitchen maintains the highest standards of cleanliness, organization, and food safety compliance
• Maintain clean, organized workstations and enforce adherence to food safety protocols across all kitchen stations
• Contribute creative ideas and suggestions to continuously improve kitchen operations and efficiency
• Schedule staff shifts strategically according to budgets and labor guidelines
• Train new employees and develop their culinary skills and professional growth
• Order food and supplies while maintaining quality standards and budget accountability
• Monitor and maintain kitchen equipment to ensure optimal performance and longevity
• Proactively solve problems and take decisive action to address kitchen challenges
• Respond to client needs and special requests with professionalism and creativity
• Design seasonal menus that reflect nutritional considerations, current food trends, and client demand
• Execute catering services for private events and offsite functions

Required Qualifications

• Culinary degree or professional certification from an accredited institution
• 5+ years of hands-on culinary experience in a high-end food service establishment
• 2+ years of supervisory or leadership experience in a kitchen environment
• Comprehensive knowledge of various cooking methods, ingredients, techniques, and culinary procedures
• Proven management and leadership experience with demonstrated ability to motivate and develop team members
• Strong understanding of industry best practices, food safety standards, and sanitation protocols
• Proficiency with menu costing procedures and food cost management
• Excellent time-management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment
• Strong decision-making capabilities and sound judgment under pressure
• Ability to adapt to changing circumstances and handle uncertainty with composure
• Flexibility to work variable schedules, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed
• Valid driver's license with appropriate references
• Ability to stand for extended periods (8+ hours) and perform physical tasks including stooping, bending, kneeling, and lifting up to 50 lbs regularly

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Experience in upscale dining, private chef services, or hospitality management
• Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite and web-based kitchen management systems
• Knowledge of dietary accommodations and specialty cuisine preparation
• Experience with menu development and food photography
• Familiarity with sustainable and locally-sourced ingredient sourcing
• Advanced skills in pastry, garde manger, or specialized culinary techniques

Essential Personal Qualities

• High moral and ethical standards with integrity in all professional interactions
• Genuine enthusiasm for continuous learning and professional growth
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with the ability to work collaboratively as a valued team member
• Mature judgment and professional behavior in all situations
• Appropriate professional boundaries and respectful workplace conduct
• Adaptability and openness to change in a dynamic kitchen environment
• Ability to handle pressure gracefully while maintaining focus on quality and excellence
• Passion for culinary excellence and dedication to food quality

Physical Requirements

The physical demands described below are representative of those required to successfully perform the essential functions of this position. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform these functions.

• Routine mobility including standing, stooping, bending, lifting, walking, and moving throughout the kitchen
• Ability to regularly sit and work at computer workstations for administrative tasks
• Manual dexterity and hand-eye coordination for food preparation and plating
• Ability to work in a warm kitchen environment with exposure to heat and steam

Tools & Equipment

Proficiency with professional kitchen equipment including commercial ranges, ovens, prep tables, knives, food processors, and buffet equipment. Experience with purchasing systems and kitchen management software is essential.

What We Offer

We believe in investing in our team members with a comprehensive benefits package designed to support your wellbeing and future:

• Comprehensive Health Coverage: Medical, dental, and vision insurance to keep you and your family healthy
• Retirement Planning: 401(k) with employer matching to help you build long-term financial security
• Paid Time Off: Paid holidays, generous PTO, and sick time so you can rest, recharge, and handle life's needs
• Professional Development: Opportunities to enhance your culinary skills and advance your career

Ready to Make Your Mark?

If you're a talented Sous Chef with a passion for culinary excellence and a commitment to leadership, we want to hear from you. Apply today to join our dynamic culinary team in beautiful Edwards, Colorado. Submit your resume, references, and a brief cover letter highlighting your culinary philosophy and leadership approach.

We are an equal opportunity employer committed to building a diverse and inclusive team. We welcome applications from candidates of all backgrounds and experiences.