Executive Sous Chef

Executive Sous Chef

Palmer's Market

264 Heights Road, Darien, CT Full Time • Salary (Based on Experience)

Job Summary:

Palmer's Market is looking for a rockstar Executive Sous Chef to bring leadership, hustle, and heart to our growing culinary team. This is more than a kitchen job - it's a chance to be part of a company that creates unforgettable food experiences for weddings, birthdays, memorials, and everyday moments. We're looking for a creative and experienced Executive Sous Chef to join our culinary team as a leader in the kitchen. This role plays a key part in supporting the Executive Chef, overseeing kitchen operations, maintaining high culinary standards, and mentoring the kitchen staff. This is perfect for a passionate skilled chef who thrives in a fast-paced environment and has a strong eye for detail and a love for food excellence - working knowledge of Spanish a plus.

Key Responsibilities:

Overseeing Food Production

• Oversee and contribute to the daily production of all food for Palmer's Market.
• Conduct daily inventory and create detailed production lists.
• Ensure every bite meets our gold standard for flavor, quality, and presentation.
• Document all recipes and ensure kitchen staff follow them precisely.
• Work side-by-side with the Executive Chef on menu development that excites and impresses.

Leading The Team

• Motivate, coach, and guide a team of kitchen staff - build a culture of pride, speed, and respect.
• Ensure all staff follow food safety protocols, workplace safety guidelines, and Palmer's Rules and Regulations - lead by example
• Motivate and engage the team - encourage pride and passion in their work coaching and providing feedback.
• Foster a positive, professional, and respectful work environment by modeling appropriate behavior - we celebrate the wins and coach any misses.
• Help staff understand the importance of their role in creating food for meaningful events - connection, celebration, meaning.

Catering Support and GMTG Customer Service

• Assist with catering production as needed providing outstanding customer service at all times.
• Collaborate with the Executive Chef and fellow sous chefs to allocate staff resources between store needs and catering orders.
• Ensure all catering and special orders are packed accurately and delivered on time, including:
• Heating instructions
• Bag tags
• Proper labeling
• Necessary off-site equipment
• Address and resolve any food-related concerns or complaints directly with clients, finding appropriate solutions with professionalism and care.

Department Safety

• Enforce all health, sanitation, and safety standards in the kitchen.
• Identify and address any potential equipment or safety hazards before they become problems.
• Maintain clean, organized, and fully functional prep areas, storage spaces, walk-ins, and freezers.

Requirements:

• Strong knowledge of culinary techniques, food preparation, food safety and kitchen management - proven culinary leadership in high volume or fast paced environment.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to work effectively as part of a team
• High standards of cleanliness and hygiene
• Ability to work flexible hours, including early mornings, weekends, and holidays as required
• Ability to lift and carry heavy boxes, crates, and merchandise weighing up to 50 pounds
• Ability to stand for long periods of time
• Safely navigate, maneuver, and maintain freezer and refrigerated storage areas
• Working knowledge of Spanish and English is strongly encouraged

Special Considerations:

This position will work out of two locations. Palmer's Commissary Kitchen (located 5 minutes from Palmer's Market) will be the main location for this position, however there will be days at the Market as well.

Compensation: Salary (Based on Experience)

Benefits & Perks: Health Insurance, Dental Insurance, Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Paid Time Off