Sous Chef
Goodwin Recruiting
Hampton, VA, United States
Hampton, VA, United States
- Hospitality
- Full-time
- Sous Chef
- culinary leadership
- menu development
The Sous Chef leads culinary operations, manages a kitchen team, and ensures high-quality food preparation while controlling costs and maintaining food safety standards. This role involves menu development, staff training, vendor management, and budget oversight, primarily in high-volume or large-scale dining environments. The position requires strong leadership, culinary expertise, and operational management skills, with a focus on innovation and sustainability in menu design.
We are seeking a visionary Sous Chef to lead culinary operations, inspire a talented kitchen team, and bring innovation and excellence to every plate.
What You’ll Do:
- Lead all culinary operations, menu design, and kitchen execution
- Recruit, train, and mentor a diverse culinary team
- Ensure consistent, high-quality food presentation and taste
- Manage budgets, control food & labor costs, and minimize waste
- Oversee compliance with food safety and sanitation standards
- Build vendor relationships and oversee purchasing/procurement
Must-Have Qualifications:
- Culinary degree + professional certifications
- Proven experience as an Executive Chef or senior culinary leader
- Strong culinary, menu development, and food safety knowledge
- Leadership, communication, and organizational excellence
- Experience in high-volume or higher education dining preferred
- Proficiency with culinary software & Microsoft Office
Preferred Skills & Experience:
- Campus dining or large-scale hospitality leadership background
- Vendor and contract negotiation expertise
- Strong financial and operational management skills
- Track record of innovation and sustainability in menu design
Perks & Benefits:
- $1,000 sign-on bonus (after 90 days)
- Health/Dental/Vision Insurance + PTO
- 401(k) with match + Tuition Reimbursement
- Short- & Long-Term Disability + Referral Program
- Pet Insurance & Travel/Entertainment Discounts
- Employee & family meal plan discounts at client locations




