Executive Sous Chef

About NARO:

Founded in 2022 by Chef Junghyun “JP” Park and Ellia Park of NA:EUN Hospitality — the acclaimed team behind Atoboy and Atomix — NARO brings a contemporary perspective to Korean cuisine in the heart of Rockefeller Center.

Drawing from the Korean dishes and flavors of JP and Ellia’s heritage, NARO reinterprets traditional cuisine through a modern lens while remaining deeply rooted in the foundations of Korean cooking. Thoughtful sourcing, seasonal ingredients, and refined technique come together to create an approachable dining experience that highlights the depth, warmth, and complexity of Korean flavors.

Position Overview:

We are seeking a passionate and driven Executive Sous Chef with a strong work ethic, humility, and a genuine desire to learn and grow alongside our team. This role works closely with the Assistant Culinary Director and Chef JP Park to help lead daily kitchen operations while upholding the highest standards of preparation, organization, food production, service execution, and composure under pressure.

The ideal candidate is someone who leads with both excellence and empathy — a thoughtful leader who can support and develop a team while balancing the operational demands of a high-performing kitchen environment.

The responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

• Oversee daily kitchen operations and support the Executive Chef in maintaining high standards of quality, consistency, and efficiency.
• Coordinate with Sous Chefs and the kitchen staff to ensure smooth service and effective delegation of responsibilities.
• Communicate closely with the FOH team regarding reservations, allergies, dietary restrictions, and special requests to ensure seamless service.
• Manage food ordering and inventory while maintaining accurate stock levels and product quality.
• Review prep lists and production plans with the kitchen team to ensure readiness and consistency for service.
• Supervise food preparation and service to ensure all dishes meet the restaurant’s standards for quality and presentation.
• Lead pre-service meetings and communicate important updates, menu changes, and operational information to both BOH and FOH teams.
• Ensure compliance with sanitation, food safety, and cleanliness standards throughout the kitchen.
• Support the hiring, onboarding, and training of kitchen staff, helping develop a strong and cohesive team.
• Foster a positive kitchen culture built on communication, accountability, and collaboration.
• Assist with menu implementation, operational planning, and special events in coordination with the Chef team and management.
• Monitor kitchen operations to help control costs, manage inventory, and support overall operational efficiency.
• Participate in management meetings and contribute to the continuous improvement of kitchen operations and team performance.

Qualifications:

• Minimum 2 years of restaurant management experience, preferably in a Sous Chef or similar leadership role
• Strong passion for hospitality and creating meaningful guest experiences through food
• Ability to effectively prioritize and manage multiple responsibilities in a fast-paced kitchen environment while maintaining consistency, organization, and attention to detail
• Deep knowledge of culinary fundamentals, including ingredient sourcing, preparation methods, cooking techniques, and kitchen operations, along with a genuine curiosity and desire to continue learning
• NYC Department of Health Food Protection Certification required
• Strong understanding of food safety, sanitation standards, and best practices, with the ability to uphold and enforce excellent hygiene and operational procedures
• Proficiency with Google Workspace and/or Microsoft Office 
• Experience with or knowledge of Korean cuisine is a plus, but not required

Physical Requirements:

• Ability to lift up to 25 lbs if necessary
• Safely and effectively use all necessary tools and equipment
• Stand and walk for an entire shift, including moving safely through all areas of the restaurant

 

Benefits:

• Paid time off 
• Paid holidays
• Medical, vision, and dental insurance
• Pre-tax commuter benefits
• Quarterly R & D stipend
• NA:EUN scholarship 
• Employee purchase program
• Dining discount
• 401k

NARO is proud to be an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, gender (including gender identity or expression), pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, sexual orientation, marital status, domestic violence, sexual violence or stalking victim status, ancestry, national origin, alienage or citizenship, age, disability, military or veteran status, genetic information or predisposing genetic characteristic, or other protected status.