Sous Chef / Kitchen Manager
The Sous Chef / Kitchen Manager works directly with the Executive Chef to lead kitchen operations, maintain labor and food budgets, and ensure consistent, high-quality food in a scratch kitchen environment. This is a hands-on leadership role that requires a balance of culinary skill, financial awareness, and team coaching.
Key Responsibilities
- Partner with the Executive Chef to manage daily kitchen operations.
- Oversee food preparation, presentation, and quality control for all menu items.
- Maintain and control food and labor costs to achieve profitability goals.
- Assist with inventory management, ordering, and vendor relationships.
- Ensure compliance with all food safety and sanitation standards.
- Lead, train, and mentor kitchen staff — fostering a positive, motivated team.
- Conduct regular line checks, prep meetings, and performance feedback sessions.
- Support new menu item development and seasonal specials.
- Collaborate with front-of-house management to ensure smooth service and guest satisfaction.
- Uphold Big Top Brewing's standards for quality, cleanliness, and consistency.
Qualifications
Required:
- 3–5 years of kitchen experience, with at least 1–2 years in a leadership role.
- Strong culinary background in scratch kitchens using fresh ingredients.
- Proven ability to manage food cost, labor, and kitchen performance.
- Excellent communication, leadership, and team-building skills.
- Knowledge of food safety standards and ServSafe certification (or ability to obtain).
- Ability to work nights, weekends, and holidays as needed.
- Organizational skills and attention to detail in a high-volume setting.
Preferred:
- Experience in a brewery, brewpub, or beer-focused restaurant.
- Familiarity with menu costing, recipe development, and seasonal sourcing.
Benefits & Perks
- Competitive salary based on experience
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Paid time off and holiday pay
- Employee discounts on food
- Opportunities for growth and career advancement
- Positive, team-driven work environment
About Big Top Brewing Company
Big Top Brewing Company is a Florida-based craft brewery and restaurant known for great beer, scratch-made food, and a welcoming community atmosphere. We pride ourselves on serving high-quality, fresh ingredients and providing exceptional hospitality in a fast-paced, team-focused environment.
We're looking for a Sous Chef / Kitchen Manager to join our leadership team and help oversee daily kitchen operations, ensuring food quality, profitability, and a positive workplace culture.
Why Join Big Top Brewing Company
At Big Top Brewing, we take pride in our food, our beer, and our people. You'll have the opportunity to make an impact on our culinary program, work alongside an experienced Executive Chef, and grow within a company that values creativity, consistency, and community.