Sous Chef Jobs

If you’re passionate about creating exceptional dishes and ready to take on more responsibility in the kitchen, a Sous Chef job could be the perfect next step in your culinary career. As the second-in-command to the Head or Executive Chef, the Sous Chef plays a pivotal role in maintaining the quality, consistency, and efficiency that keep a kitchen running at its best.

At Stafffinders, we work with leading restaurants, hotels, resorts, and catering companies across the UK to connect talented Sous Chefs with opportunities that match their experience and career ambitions. Whether you’re ready to step up from Chef de Partie or looking to move into a larger kitchen environment, our dedicated hospitality recruitment team is here to help.

What Does a Sous Chef Do?

The Sous Chef is a key member of any kitchen brigade, balancing creativity with leadership to ensure smooth day-to-day operations. You’ll oversee staff performance, manage inventory, and guarantee that every dish leaving the pass meets the highest standards of taste and presentation. Typical responsibilities include:

• Supporting the Head Chef in managing daily kitchen operations.

• Supervising and training junior kitchen staff.

• Overseeing food preparation, cooking, and presentation.

• Assisting in menu design and recipe development.

• Monitoring stock levels and ordering supplies as needed.

• Ensuring strict adherence to food hygiene and safety regulations.

• Stepping in for the Head Chef during absences.

• Maintaining a positive and efficient kitchen environment.

A successful Sous Chef combines technical excellence with strong leadership, ensuring that every shift runs smoothly, even under pressure.

Skills and Qualities for Sous Chef Jobs

Sous Chefs are both skilled chefs and natural leaders. They must stay calm under pressure, communicate clearly with their team, and maintain an eye for detail while working at speed.

Key skills include:

• Excellent culinary and knife skills.

• Strong leadership and team management abilities.

• Thorough understanding of food safety and hygiene standards.

• Creativity and flair in menu development.

• Great organisational and time management skills.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced environment.

• Confidence in delegating and decision-making.

Employers also look for passion, dedication, and a commitment to delivering exceptional food, all qualities that help Sous Chefs advance to senior culinary positions.

How to Become a Sous Chef

Most Sous Chefs begin their culinary journey by gaining formal training through a culinary arts course or apprenticeship, paired with hands-on kitchen experience. Starting in entry-level positions such as Commis Chef or Chef de Partie allows aspiring Sous Chefs to learn the foundations of professional cooking, from preparation and plating to teamwork and time management.

As experience grows, developing leadership skills and a deeper understanding of kitchen management becomes crucial. Mentorship from experienced chefs and ongoing training will also help you refine your techniques and prepare for the transition to a senior kitchen role.

With dedication and experience, Sous Chefs often progress to positions such as Head Chef, Executive Chef, or Culinary Director.

View our latest Sous Chef jobs today and take the next step toward becoming a Head Chef of the future.